Friends of Panthertown

Background information about the Friends of Panthertown organization.

Who We Are:
In 2005, the Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance began the work of gathering input from stakeholders and establishing a relationship with the USDA Forest Service to protect Panthertown Valley. The project goal was to create a group of supporters that would provide funds and volunteer efforts that would address the much needed maintenance projects and conservation efforts in Panthertown. In 2007, J-MCA hired a coordinator for the Friends of Panthertown and formalized a partnership with the USDA Forest Service in an effort to address the unmet needs of Panthertown Valley. In 2011 our group was recognized by the IRS as an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization. Due to budget cuts in recent years, the Forest Service doesn’t have sufficient funding or personnel to provide more than minimal levels of maintenance; therefore, the Friends of Panthertown are providing funding and volunteers for much needed projects and conservation efforts.

Our Mission:
The mission of the Friends of Panthertown is to work in partnership with the USDA Forest Service to conserve this outstanding natural resource while improving the quality and experience of recreational opportunities in Panthertown Valley.

What We Do:
• Engage volunteers in on-the-ground efforts at monthly work days
• Foster environmental stewardship through outreach and education
• Restore and maintain trails
• Construct trail-head facilities and repair bridges and existing structures
• Protect natural resources and monitor fragile ecosystems
• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop solutions to natural resource issues
• Provide funding for conservation projects through grants and membership contributions

Contact Information:
Friends of Panthertown, Inc.
P.O. Box 51
Cashiers, NC 28717
Phone: 828-269-HIKE (4453)
Email: friends@panthertown.org
Website: www.panthertown.org

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