The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded a $400,000 grant to The Nature Conservancy for the Cumberland-Pine Mountain project. This funding, part of ARC’s ARISE initiative, will enhance outdoor recreation infrastructure and conservation efforts across a 253,000-acre area spanning Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia.
U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith expressed support for the project. Griffith remarked that Southwest Virginia boasts sites that enhance tourism interest in outdoor activities.
He highlighted the Cumberland-Pine Mountain Outdoor Recreation and Conservation Corridor project as one of the many initiatives managed by The Nature Conservancy in Virginia’s 9th District, noting its winding trails, rivers, and mountains among its key features.
“This ARC grant for $400,000 helps the region develop and restore access to these beautiful areas,” Griffith said.
This project is part of the broader Cumberland Forest initiative, which aims to protect biodiversity, restore habitats, and promote sustainable land management while creating opportunities for outdoor activities. The Nature Conservancy’s approach balances conservation with recreation promotion, supporting activities like hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.
According to a press release, ARC has awarded various regional projects. Ohio University received $500,000 to collaborate with partners on integrating new, cost-effective, and flexible electric aviation technologies at regional airports in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Ohio. Additionally, Conserving Carolina was granted $450,000 to develop a 31-mile Saluda Grade Trail project connecting North Carolina and South Carolina.
Further grants include The Great Allegheny Passage Conservancy was awarded $196,200 to create a strategic plan, with partners, to guide the maintenance of the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage trail, which connects Maryland and Pennsylvania.
ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin emphasized that the ARISE initiative continues to drive positive growth in the region through collaboration among Appalachians.
“I congratulate this newest group of ARISE grantees and look forward to seeing the economic impact of these investments on Appalachia’s growing outdoor recreation and aviation industries,” Manchin said.
For more information about ARC, visit arc.gov.