Elk Knob State Park Master Plan

CONSTRAINT

Public

Note: North Carolina

The Division wishes to thank everyone that commented on the Final Master Plan. All comments will be taken into account as projects move forward towards implementation.

All comments are compiled in Appendix D which is a separate document available for download and review.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Natural Resource General

Northern Peaks Trail

Highpointer Concern

Master Plan Programming Concerns

Historic Property Concerns

Text & Copy Concerns

General Thanks

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Hi Dave

My name is Andrew Jenkins and I am a lecturer in the Department of Biology at Appalachian State University in Boone North Carolina. I am writing as part of the open comments for the master plan of Elk Knob State Park.

I use elk Knob State Park extensively not only for personal recreational hiking, but also as an excellent site to bring my classes for field trips and fieldwork. Elk Knob State Park has become a place that means a lot to me here in the high country. I did my masters thesis work at Three Top Mountain Game Land Preserve, and I have studied the flora of the Amphibolite Mountains Macrosite contains. In fact the majority of our state federally listed endangered species occur here in the macrosite. Elk Knob State Park is one of the main peaks in the Amphibolites, and I have personally worked with park rangers to help document the plant species that occur in the park, including Aconitum reclinatum, trailing wolfsbane.

While I am understand and support the fact that recreational opportunities are what drive a lot of the economics here in Western North Carolina, I am emailing you to stress the importance of preserving the biological diversity and protecting it from the unintended consequences of habitat damage to careless through hikers and the trash and pollution that they will no doubt bring to the park and other Amphibolite peaks in the area. I am well aware of the politics behind the northern peaks trail, and while I oppose the initial plan for the idea because of the haphazard design that has been made to put the trail essentially along the ridge of these mountain tops, I do understand the desire to have a strong recreational component to the State Park. It is my opinion that in working with local professionals and specialists, especially from Appalachian State University, both conservation and recreation goals can be achieved with proper planning and design.

I am reminded of a saying from a fellow professor in the biology department, Dr Matt Estep, that one constructing these types of trails conserving biological diversity is a lot more important than providing scenic vistas for tourists to take pictures of. I am concerned that the impact will be very negative on our rare species here, and I'm afraid that the opening of the northern peaks trail as it is currently designed will cause irreparable damage and reduce the biological diversity of the area. I strongly implore everybody who is associated with this master plan to take a balanced approach of conservation and recreation, and prohibit new trails to sensitive habitats while expanding the trail system in areas where are/endangered species do not exist.

Interpretive signage is sadly not mention as a major component to this plan, especially in regards to the NPT. The trail can not be allowed to go through rare and endangered communities that make the Amphibolite Mountains Macrosite (AMM) so special and in need of conservation. I am sad to see this plan only seems to focus on the recreational aspects of the park, the NPT, and the AMM, and does very little with interpretational signage that educates to the public why they can not climb rocks to get a scenic view because they will destroy habitats of federally listed species.

I hope this plan is only a draft, and that NCSP reaches out to us who are willing to volunteer and collaborate on interpretive signage, stewardship, and overall protection of the (AMM). I understand the NPT is going to be established, let's not ruin the ecological significances of the area in sacrifice to unsustainable recreational destination. These mountains need our protection, and not exploitation. Thank you, I look forward to volunteering my time and expertise to the benefit of our mountains now and in the future.

Andrew Jenkins

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Hi Dave,

My name is David Camp and I am a graduate student at Appalachian State University. I wanted to weigh in on the Elk Knob Master Plan that has been released. I am very disappointed to see the amount of alteration that is proposed to the park. The additional trails that are being put in, including the abomination that is the Northern Peaks Trail will absolutely have a negative effect on this beautiful land.

It is astounding to me that in 2020, with all we know about climate change, that we are doing more and more to disturb the natural state of lands put aside for preservation and enjoyment. I understand that people getting to trek through them on such trails is part of this enjoyment, however, as we know from places like Rough Ridge, increased foot traffic inevitably leads to environmental degradation. We can put up all the signage in the world, but it is clear such sources of information are not heeded.

Right in the introduction it is highlighted the number of rare species found within the park. So why would we encourage further development? In my mind, the problem is greed. We set these plots of land aside because we understand how unique they are and the protections they require, and then turn around and say, “Well, everyone deserves to see that.” This is simply not the case. I recognize there are places in the world I will never be able to see because of their conservation status and the fragility of those lands. That is fine with me. I understand the precarious situation we face: ecological collapse due to climate change. These lands need to be set aside and untouched as much as possible. Elk Knob already has trails and those are great, leave them be. But the addition of more and, as I noted above, the inevitable environmental degradation that will come with it is an absolute travesty and I cannot believe that anyone who tries to sell the idea that they really care about nature could be onboard with such myopic plans.

I know it’s hard to sell the idea of setting aside lands and no one getting to enjoy them. But the future is now, climate change is here, and selfishness is only going to make things worse.

Dave Camp ASU Graduate Student

Hi my name is Grace Wilson, and I’m a local resident of Watauga county. I want to input my vote against this plan. We have enough tourist attractions in Boone. The land is sacred and special. People love Boone because of the nature and parks. Please reconsider destroying anymore nature!! We don’t need more picnic areas and all that. I stand with Noble Kava in Boone, and we all vote against this plan! Feel free to contact any of us! My number is (number removed from public document for privacy). Thank you and I hope you guys reconsider!!!

Grace Wilson Boone, NC

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Hi Carol,

Hope you are doing well.

I would like to talk with you about the Elk Knob SP Master Plan. My son’s girlfriend’s parents, the Winebergers live on the property south of the proposed Day Use Area (South side). Their family home place is across Meat Camp Rd on Snake Mtn property. They are concerned about the intensity of the activities planned for the Day Use Area and the impact on the headwaters of Meat Camp Creek as well as increased traffic on Meat Camp Rd which is a narrow winding country road. The Winebergers walk their family property at Snake Mtn daily and love trails. In fact, they take me on hikes to the top of Snake Mtn when I visit the area. So they are not against trails and trailheads but the intensity of the planned development which includes RV parking and an educational facility on a small tract of land.

Both my son, Worth and his girlfriend, Monica have Masters in Biology from ASU and have spent field time in and around Meat Camp Creek. They, too, are concerned about the impact of the intensity of the planned development on the headwater area of Meat Camp Creek and the surrounding natural areas. They do a lot of hiking and support a trailhead and connections to the Northern Peak State Trail but not the other activities, especially RV parking off of a narrow winding country road like Meat Camp Rd,

The Winebergers are good mountain people who are unfamiliar with large developments like the Elk Knob SP Master Plan and my son and his girlfriend live in Tuscaloosa where he works for the University of Alabama Biology Department and the Alabama Museum of Natural History. I have reviewed the Master Plan and have questions about the Day Use Area including the timing. Would it be possible for me to talk with you about the Master Plan and ask some questions so I can better advise them on how to provide input during the public comment period?

Thanks, Mary Joan

I am suggesting that you scale back on the plans for Elk Knob future development. I don’t believe we need to sacrifice another of our mountains to development, especially at the tax payer’s expense. It should be keep natural for the wildlife and forest habitat with the lest human interference as possible. We were of the understanding that was the primary purpose for the acquisition of the property. At the most a limited number of hiking trails should be considered.

Sincerely, Zola Ward

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Hello Mr. Head,

I am writing in regards to the master plan for Elk Knob State Park. I have recently viewed the plan, and am disappointed for a number of reasons, chief of which is the threat that such development poses to the land.

I grew up just a few miles away from Elk Knob in the Green Valley community. My father taught at Green Valley Elementary School for many years, and our family has inhabited the Meat Camp and Green Valley areas since before the Civil War. Needless to say, I have strong personal interest in the area. Some of the best days of my life were spent carefully ascending the slopes of Elk Knob and Snake Mountain, and I always appreciated how pristine and peaceful they were, especially the latter.

It is my belief that significant further development to the area--even in the interest of outdoor recreation--would at least partially undermine the efforts of preserving these amazing natural habitats. Not only does the very presence of additional buildings, parking lots, and other facilities further encroach on the fragile natural habitats of local biodiversity, but they perhaps more disconcertingly invite increased human traffic.

I do not mean to insinuate that the beauty of Elk Knob, Snake Mountain, and the Peak should not be made available to people at all, but sometimes, accessibility must be limited in the interest of true preservation. This master plan makes it clear that preservation is not the goal of North Carolina State Parks, but rather commodifying land for the purpose of human use.

I will gladly acknowledge that campgrounds, hiking trails, and general outdoor recreation are much more welcome and low-impact endeavors than, say, a ski resort or a luxury-home development (which of course are persistent threats to our proud mountains here in the High Country), but even these things are at their core made for human use--so humans can take amusement in nature at its expense.

I am well-traveled in North Carolina, and have made an effort to visit many state parks and public lands, and there is one pattern that never falters: the greater the accessibility to humans, the trashier and more compromised the preservation effort of the land is. The sad generalized conclusion I have drawn is that humans cannot be trusted to respect nature. Go to any public land in the state--state parks, especially-- and you will see it: people littering; feeding and molesting wild animals (despite clear warnings not to); using rocks from streams to build dams and other useless structures for sheer amusement; carving or graffitiing their names or profane messages into trees, buildings and railings. Not to mention, the widespread disrepair and lack of maintenance at these places--unclean facilities that never seem to operate properly; vandalism that is never expunged/repaired; drastic understaffing; outdated, broken, or missing signage. Why are resources being used to create more of these problems at Elk Knob rather than addressing them in the capacity at which they already exist throughout publicly accessible state lands?

I want to be clear that I appreciate the efforts that the North Carolina State Parks system makes to preserve our state’s wondrous biodiversity, educate neighbors and visitors alike, and promote the responsible coexistence between humans and nature, but there is a line that is in danger of being crossed here--a point at which these efforts begin to undermine themselves and create more problems in the name of creating profitable traffic. Is Elk Knob the next Mount Mitchell, an irreplaceable habitat permanently compromised by human encroachment and development? A profound peak marred by the asinine “need” for a restaurant, gift shop, and a rundown educational exhibit? These are human commodities and comforts, that by nature of their very existence are carved out of wildlife for the benefit of humankind, and are counter-intuitive to the effort of preservation.

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Less is more when it comes to preserving nature, I believe. Again, I am all about opening up public land to visitors, but the more accessible the land is, the more susceptible it is to abuse. When a greater effort is required to access public lands, it does attract fewer people, but these are the people more inclined to practice leave-no-trace recreation and general respect for the land, i.e., preservation, which I believe should be the ultimate cause of our state park system.

Finally, I would like to stress that I am not an expert. I am an average consumer who happens to adore the wildlife of North Carolina, and I recognize that, in this case, the expertise of my audience likely exceeds that of my own, and this is not meant to be a lecture or any sort of disrespect. I thank you for your willingness to hear the input of the community on this plan and for everything you do for our state, its biodiversity, its natural resources, and its people.

Good luck.

Jordan R. Jackson Boone, NC

Hello Dave,

Thanks for accepting feedback, Hear you go sir...

ELK Knob master plan. First a little background. I am from and live in the mountains of Boone NC. The outdoors in this range have moulded me into the outdoor steward I am today. I hiked in this region as a kid long before it was a park, the main trail was just a logging road to the summit of ELK. At 17 I participated in a NOLS course in the wind rivers of Wyoming. Years and years of climbing and whitewater paddling later I am now 37 and love everything the current park offers. I work with Appraisal and planning for Watauga County Government now.

For the plan, I would build for the future but keep a very small footprint. Spend the money on conservation and education, buy more land and fund the NPTrail. Decrease the visitor center until the visitation equals the need for expansion. Keep it modern but low to the ground one level back in the trees. Try to limit paved surfaces around the facility. Increase backcountry trails and camping. Eliminate the rv sites. Less is more in this range. I love all the facilities at state parks all over NC but this park is uniquely different. It is much tricker to preserve habitat and provide human needs to enjoy responsibly. The older I get the more I see the value in limiting the footprint visitors are allowed. If 94% conservation acreage is the current goal build to 97% conservation, because 6% of the current park size is still considerable acres and once there developed there not going the other direction. I have a 4 year old and I look to her kids down the road, Give them the skillset to protect our lands and give them the space to conserve. The smaller the footprint now the better.

Last thank you for what you do each day and I am thankful that my words might be heard by at least a few. God Bless

Nathan Bland Boone, NC

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Dear Dave,

I appreciate the work that has gone into the Elk Knob master plan, as this is in an area I enjoy both personally and professionally. I encourage careful consideration of the routing of paths through the area. Elk Knob is home to numerous imperiled plant habitats, including rock outcrops of a type found nowhere else outside of the southern Appalachians. In addition, many plant species themselves on Elk Knob are rare or globally endangered.

Please ensure that paths are pleasurable for visitors but also preserve our state’s vital natural heritage.

I appreciate your consideration of these comments, and those of other stakeholders,

Take care,

Jennifer Rhode Ward, Ph.D. (she/her)

Professor of Biology, PULSE Fellow

University of North Carolina at Asheville

Hello Dave,

I’ve been reviewing the Elk Knob State Park master plan and wanted to send a few comments. My family and I visit the park frequently and look forward to enjoying it for many years to come. I am concerned, however, with some of the plans outlined in the master plan document. Mainly, I’m worried about the footprints of the parking/facilities and some of the trails. My main worry is about the increase in traffic (foot and motor vehicle) to such a sensitive area. The amphibolites are very special, as I’m sure you know, and harbor some unique flora and fauna. Specifically, rare plants and uncommon salamanders (Weller’s salamander) would not fare well with some of the current choices outlined in the master plan. Indeed, recent research in NC has shown that trails can fracture a forest and prevent salamanders from crossing them. Thus, it effectively acts like an interstate does for larger vertebrates.

I understand that trails are needed and some facilities but I would argue that there needs to be less of a footprint in such a unique area. As these plans move forward, I would encourage a “sustainable” trail that would avoid encroachment on sensitive areas (e.g. peaks) with rare plants and animals. The increased foot traffic would be harmful on the trail and folks are likely to venture off the trail into other sensitive areas.

Thanks for your time,

Jon Davenport, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Biology Department of Biology

Appalachian State University

Natural Resources - General Concerns

I am a resident of Meat Camp Road and own land that is immediately adjacent to Elk Knob State Park. I was a child in the 1990’s, but I remember when the NC state park system acquired Elk Knob and the combination of relief and apprehension that followed within the local community. While happy the land did not go to developers who would certainly destroy the mountain’s natural beauty, my family and I were very much aware of the story of Skyline Drive in Shenandoah. We have been pleasantly surprised by the way Elk Knob State Park has been managed over the years and have enjoyed hiking the trail to the peak dozens of times. We have been mostly in agreement that if the park remains the way it is now---mostly wild and conservation-driven---we would be happy to leave our land to the park when the time comes. That being said, I have several issues with the newly proposed Master Plan.

I have the following concerns regarding the proposed Master Plan for Elk Knob State Park: 1. Building a pavilion and ADA trails and a road pull off on the southernmost parcel of land a. My family and I own the property adjacent to the southernmost parcel on the south side and do not want a giant pavilion next to our property. I am concerned about the disturbance events and live music will cause to us and our small farm. I also do not want casual hikers to be tempted to trespass on our land because of its proximity to trails. I would like to preserve the integrity of our small farm and way of life, not have it exploited for public consumption.

b. I am concerned about the impact of construction and increased traffic on Meat Camp Creek and the small tributaries that enter our land from the park-owned parcel (one of which is not noted on the map on p. 55). Increased sedimentation from construction, increased run off from the extensive paving proposed, and increased pollution to the streams and creek from car exhaust and salting the drive and parking lot for use in winter are all concerns. While not noted on the map on p. 11, the NC Wildlife Commission uses our bridge to stock trout in Meat Camp Creek, immediately south of proposed construction. Degradation in water quality could negatively impact trout fishing in the area. As noted on p. 46, Meat Camp Creek is a headwater tributary of the New River and should be protected, not threatened by new construction and a dramatic increase in impervious surfaces in the immediate vicinity.

c. There are already a historical house and barn on the property from before 1950. If the park wishes to educate tourists about local history, why demolish those and build an inauthentic “rustic” pavilion to teach people about local history when what is already there could be preserved and kept authentic? The proposed demolition of the existing homestead constitutes destruction of actual local history and borders on appropriation, gentrification, and exploitation of local history.

d. There is also a small cemetery across the street from the proposed construction site (not noted on p. 12, though the church that owns it is) that was established along with Pleasant Valley Methodist Church in the early 1920’s. I would like to preserve the integrity of the resting place of my relatives by not having a giant pavilion and parking lot across the street.

e. An alternative to the proposed pavilion and parking lots: build a small gravel parking lot on the area designated for parking, a small comfort station (bathrooms, water fountain, trash and recycling) where the proposed pavilion would go, and a small trail up the hillside that is clearly marked and signed. *I very much like the proposed wetland restoration in the lower portion of the parcel as well as the native plant meadow. These ideas are more aligned with the park mission of conservation and preservation of natural landscapes and I fully support them. *

2. Increased traffic on Meat Camp Road and Rich Mountain Road

a. As residents of Meat Camp Road, my family and I would live with increased traffic on Meat Camp Road every single day. Meat Camp Road (and to an even greater extent Rich Mountain Road) is narrow, winding, and closely follows the creek with no guardrails.

b. I am also concerned about the impact of increased traffic on the large number of cyclists who use Meat Camp Road to train and complete races that also bring large numbers of tourists to the area (e.g. Blood Sweat and Gears).

c. While the southernmost parcel has a slightly milder climate than the higher elevation areas of the park, snow and ice still accumulate on the sections of Meat Camp Road required to access it and conditions start getting particularly dicey around the curve at Proffit’s Grove Baptist Church. The curve in front of Rich Mountain Road is also banked awkwardly and is treacherous in inclement weather. This is a safety issue and it is irresponsible to encourage visitors unfamiliar with the roads to access them in winter. Unlike the Parkway, which is primarily used by tourists, Meat Camp is a residential area and increased traffic hazards will affect residents.

d. The road is simply too narrow for increased RV traffic.

3. Degrading the natural wildlife and plant communities

a. The map on p. 15 indicates that the lowest conservation value for any area in the park is a 5 out of 10, and it is evident that all areas being considered for further development contain resources that are worth conserving. The southernmost parcel contains values of 5-6 as well as 9-10, as do the other areas being considered for development. If the goal of the park is to conserve and preserve, why sacrifice these areas to further development? Especially with 70% of stakeholder input indicating that people are more likely to use backcountry areas than front country (p. 51). If trails are universally desired, and facilities are controversial, it stands to reason that effort and resources should be used for the construction of ecologically sensitive trails that promote conservation rather than development and building of facilities.

b. The Elk Knob area has such a special ecosystem with rare plants and animals. Conservation is so much more important than amenities for humans. There are plenty of recreation areas for humans nearby already and Elk Knob State Park does not need more amenities.

c. Most of the comments from the open house are in support of keeping the park wild and preserving the land. It is against public interest to further develop the park for human recreation.

4. Lack of local outreach

a. Local people already live in the valley and shoulders of Elk Knob and Snake mountain. We already have access to scenic views, biodiversity, and recreation. We can already have picnics next to the creek and take hikes up our land or our neighbors. True locals do not need a picnic area because our picnic areas are our yards and porches. This community is in no way underserved by natural beauty but will be negatively impacted by increased traffic and crowds.

b. I understand the desire to acquire land for conservation and preservation purposes, but local people have been conserving and preserving our land for decades already. It isn’t the local people who buy large mountainsides and build giant ugly houses on them. We build small cabins and houses down low, out of the wind and weather, with easier and gentler driveways that we can access year-round. We hate those big houses that sit on ridgelines more than you can imagine. None of us want our land to go to people who will build them, and if the park wishes to build giant facilities and increase human traffic in sensitive areas, we don’t want our land going to it, either.

Natural Resources - General Concerns

c. Descendants of original founding families make up a large portion of the population of Meat Camp Road (Winebargers, Millers, Moretzes, others). Our lands directly border the park, and we will live with any increase in usage, construction, and traffic every single day. There are many mentions of community support in the Master Plan, as well as the goals of highlighting local history and preserving local culture, but no park representatives have reached out to my family nor any of our neighbors directly to inform us of proposed changes, desires to acquire our land, or plans to display the names, faces, and achievements of our ancestors for public consumption. My parents were among those who sold the Proffit tract to the park just last month and no mention was made of any of the contents of the Master Plan until after the sale was finalized. Had they known about several aspects of the plan (especially the proposed “Day Use Area” in the southernmost parcel) they would not have signed for the sale. I am disappointed in the lack of public outreach to Meat Camp residents exhibited by park management. In conclusion, I very much love and support Elk Knob State Park as it is now. I am proud to be its neighbor and to have it in my community. I am disappointed in the new direction plans have taken as I feel they disregard the mission of the park to preserve and protect the natural areas that make the park so special. Please scale back the building of new facilities, the RV accommodations, and the new trails through highly sensitive habitats. Thank you for your time.

Monica Winebarger Meat Camp Road Resident

Natural Resources - General Concerns

I am a lifelong resident of Meat Camp Road. I grew up on Snake mountain where I still own property and now live just down the road where I manage a small farm that borders the southernmost parcel of park land. I have a great respect for nature and spend most of my time outdoors. I have thus far liked how Elk Knob State Park has been managed and appreciate how the focus has always been maintaining the natural beauty of the mountains and protecting the rare and fragile ecosystems they contain. I enjoy hiking in the park; I think it balances conservation with recreation well and the number of visitors is just right---they get to enjoy the beautiful mountains I grew up in and don’t overwhelm the small community in which the park is located. I am very disappointed with the new Master Plan for park expansion. Firstly, I am frustrated by the lack of outreach by the park to notify those of us who live in the Meat Camp community of proposed changes. Whatever happens with the park, we will live with the consequences every single day: erosion, increased traffic, crowding, trespassing of hikers, etc., will directly affect us. Further, I am one of the sellers of the Proffit tract and I feel misled and betrayed. We were told the land would be a “natural area” and now it is slated to be developed more than any other location in the park. I feel that these plans renege on the original mission of the park, which was to preserve and protect the land from development. Secondly, I want to voice my opposition to having a picnic area with a giant pavilion and paved parking lot constructed next to my home. This new “Day Use Area” threatens to tarnish the beauty of the mountains I have cherished every day of my life, encroach on natural plant and animal communities, and pollute the water that flows into my land and Meat Camp Creek. I am concerned about the negative impacts the construction and subsequent crowds will have on my small farm. It is a waste of taxpayer money to build monstrosities like this, especially when 70% of stakeholder input says backcountry areas are more desirable than front country amenities. Lastly, I am concerned that the new Northern Peaks trail will damage sensitive plant communities and ask that the park leave current trails as they are and not build new ones. The ecosystems of these mountains are too special to be threatened by increased exposure to humans. There are hundreds of trails in nearby state and federal parks for people to hike, we do not need one connecting Boone and Elk Knob or connecting Elk Knob to the Peak. The Blueridge Parkway is only 10-12 miles from Elk Knob; it is 469 miles long with over 360 miles of hiking trails that are already established and offer amazing viewsheds. The BRP has plenty of RV access, is primarily for tourists rather than residents, and has plenty of picnic and day use areas. Farther north there are over 100 miles of Skyline Drive with trails and amenities for people to enjoy. We are also close to Stone Mountain SP, New River SP, Bass Lake, Trout Lake, Grandfather Mountain, and several others. The Boone area is in no way underserved by parks and recreation.

People come to see Elk Knob because it is still reminiscent of the wilderness that once encompassed this whole region. I chose to remain on Meat Camp Road and build a life here because it is quiet, peaceful, and far from the crowds of Boone and Blowing Rock. Building all these new facilities and trails will turn my beloved mountain community into a crowded circus just like the other recreation areas nearby. Please do not ruin this beautiful park by trying to cram more amenities and people into it. Leave it alone and let it be wild.

Wayne Winebarger

Meat Camp Road Resident

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Hello!

I hope you’re doing well!

I heard that plans for the park were up and wanted to voice my opinion! I believe strongly that plants, animals, and nature should be a priority before anything else. The Appalachians are a beautiful and diverse area of wonderful flora and fauna, it would be a shame to lose even more of the land to ephemeral pleasures.

Please consider keeping nature true to nature!

Thanks!

Cara Rogers

To whom it may concern:

I am a resident of Meat Camp Road and own property adjacent to Elk Knob State Park. I have enjoyed hiking in the park for many years now and feel that the current trails and amenities are just right for our small mountain community. I am glad the NC State Park system owns the mountain rather than people who would bulldoze the mountainside and ruin it with houses, but I am concerned about the new Master Plan for the park expansion. My primary concern is the exposure of rare plants and animals to poachers and other people who will not respect trail boundaries. These mountains are home to fragile and shrinking ecosystems that need to be protected, not opened up for human recreation. Much of the land owned by the park was acquired from the Nature Conservancy and private landowners with the understanding that it would be protected as a natural area and I would like to see the park continue upholding high standards for conservation. I understand one of the new goals is to build the North Peaks trail, but I do not see a need for such a trail through our community. If visitors are interested in long distance hikes, we are close to the Linville Gorge, the Blueridge Parkway, the Appalachian Trail, and the Mountain to Sea trail. I would prefer resources be put toward continued conservation of the areas around Elk Knob, Snake Mountain, and the Peak rather than building new trails and facilities.

I am also quite opposed to the “Day Use Area” in the southern section of the park, as we have plenty of picnic and recreation areas nearby already. The demolition of existing structures, construction of new ones, and paving a large parking area threaten to degrade Meat Camp Creek in addition to disturbing areas of high conservation value listed on the map on p. 15. In fact, all the areas being considered for further development were given high conservation values, so I am confused as to why more development is being proposed at all. It would be more in line with the mission of conservation to keep amenities to a minimum and driving/parking areas gravel. If new trails must be built, please keep them away from sensitive plant communities—do not sacrifice biodiversity for viewsheds.

Phyllis Winebarger

Meat Camp Road Resident

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Dear Dave,

As a member of the PAC for Elk Knob, as well as being a Board member for the Friends of High Country State Parks organization, I am hopeful the State will truly use the rank order of Amenities of the Park as shared by stakeholders (page 51 in the PDF) to guide development. The charm of Elk Knob is its remoteness and more “natural area” feel. While accessibility should always be a consideration, this part of the state has plenty of other accessible county, state, and federal lands that are mostly to easily accessible.

Most users that I have encountered over the last 15 years at Elk seek a more “backcountry” experience, that would be ruined if too much development were to occur. As such, the State, if not careful, could be trading out people seeking solitude and quiet for the “average user” of public lands who are their more for social purposes, some modest exercise, and lots of amenities, versus truly connecting with nature and getting away from the constraints of everyday life.

Again, I hope the State moves slowly with development and focuses first on trail development/management, natural resource protection/acquisition, and environmental education first. RV/Cabin camping, a state of the art visitor center, paved road parking, etc. can and should come later if at all.

My two cents, and know I speak only for myself, and not the Friends or PAC,

Eric Frauman

Professor, Recreation Management Program

Appalachian State University, Boone, NC

Hello Mr. Head,

Thank you for requesting input for the Final Master Plan at Elk Knob State Park. https://www.ncparks.gov/elkknob-state-park/park-news/final-master-plan-open-public-comment

Considering how diverse the area is, I’m worried how this plan will affect ecological sustainability. When planning trails, I hope you will consider sustainability with utmost importance when deciding on the trails because of the areas that will be affected. The wildlife in this area is unique and I trust your plan will protect the endangered species in the park.

Sincerely, Roma L. McClanahan

Natural Resources - General Concerns

I am a resident of Boone, NC and have enjoyed hiking in Elk Knob State Park for many years. The way the park is now is great. I appreciate that it still feels wild and untouched by humans, that existing facilities are well-hidden in the trees, and that rare species are noted on signs around the park and clearly respected by park management. I am disappointed in the new Master Plan, which proposes significant degradation of the natural landscape to build amenities that are unnecessary and in diametric opposition to the park’s mission to preserve the natural landscape. The NPST threatens rare plant and animal species, the Day Use Area would be detrimental to Meat Camp Creek, and increased traffic on Meat Camp Road would be a safety hazard, especially in winter. Please do not turn the park into a playground for those who only pretend to respect nature, keep it balanced with the wilderness as you have done for so many years.

Will Shook

Boone, NC

I have sifted through the Master Plan, and I wish to make a few comments before the opportunity to do so closes.

First, my wife and I have hiked every NC state park, some multiple times. Having that experiential database under our belts, we regard Elk Knob to be, perhaps, our single favorite park, despite the drive required (from Chapel Hill) to get there. The Summit Trail is marvel of construction, and one of our favorite destinations. We are intrigued to learn that additional trails might be constructed, we presume with the same care as the Summit trail, and look forward to seeing them completed.

We also advocate for extreme care in trail construction with regard rare flora. We hope that all future trail construction is guided by expertise in rare plant habitat, and that trails will be routed in accordance with that expertise.

North Carolina’s state parks are a wonderful asset, and should be husbanded with multiple objectives in mind. I hope that expansion of trails within Elk Knob’s jurisdiction can meet the objectives of visitors, as well as the habitats that make the park a special destination.

Ken Friedman

Chapel Hill, NC

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Hello, I read the article below describing the planning for Elk Knob State Park. Its a beautiful area and I pray the decision makers keep in mind how precious unspoiled land truly is. When creating trails, please be mindful of the wildlife and native species of plants that call this area home. If we don’t get this right, future generations will lose out on the experience of nature at its best. I’m reading where beautiful areas are being trampled by people not taught to appreciate nature and historical areas. This is sad on so many levels, but a problem that can be addressed now. I know the parks service wants the best for our area, praying for your wisdom and guidance.

Thank you, Sandra Holley

I am writing to express my disapproval for the current plan for Elk Knob State Park, specifically in relation to the Northern Peaks trail.

I spent 4 years working in surveying rare plant populations throughout this area, including Elk Knob. The amphibolites as a whole are an incredibly special place and I totally understand wanting to share that beauty with the world, but I believe that the current plan does extremely little to mitigate the negative impacts of recreation on these high risk and rare plant communities and offers only vague political handwaving surrounding specific actions to protect and conserve them.

I spent 2 years trying to convince people to watch their step in high elevation rock outcrop communities and most people still don’t think about it or care too much. Elk knob has somewhat similar communities that are equally as rare, although not specifically this one to my experience. A lot of rare communities are beautiful and therefore are peak viewing opportunities so I understand the want for “viewshed” opportunities, but as you can see from the papers I have cited/linked below we know and have significant data to prove the negative impacts of recreation with local examples including rough ridge.

I believe that the public needs opportunities to access natural areas to form the connections of importance with these places, but the current plan laid out to include the northern peaks trail is irresponsible regarding conservation values. I know lots of these areas, including the peak, have been slowly purchased by other agencies over the past 30-40 years specifically for conservation of these imperiled/globally rare habitats. By developing them it goes directly against the intention laid out in the initial purchase.

Elk Knob is one of my favorite parks and the surrounding amphibolite mountains are some of my favorite places on earth. If the state park system is legitimately prioritizing conservation of our natural resources and not just interested in expanding the capital of outdoor recreation in the area then the proposed plan needs to be reevaluated to include specific measures to better protect these plant communities.

I appreciate your time in hearing out my concerns and I hope you share them in person with your committee.

Logan Clark

Natural Resources - General Concerns

Dear Mr. Head,

I writing on behalf of MountainTrue, a regional environmental organization serving Western North Carolina. MountainTrue and our eleven thousand members and supporters value the public lands and waters of North Carolina for their fish and wildlife habitat, clean water, scenery, and recreational opportunities. We are strong supporters of the mission of NC State Parks and we thank you and everyone involved in the creation of Elk Knob State Park, which we see as a much need addition to public lands in North Carolina, especially in the High Country, which has a lower proportion of public lands than other parts of the NC Mountains.

Our staff have reviewed the Master Plan and we are generally supportive of the concepts there-in. We are especially supportive of the need to connect the current parcels of Elk Knob State Park through further land acquisition. It is clear that the values being incorporated in the development of the park are intended to preserve the natural diversity of the area and mesh well with the local community. There are a few areas that we believe need greater specificity in the Master Plan, and we will outline those below.

The Northern High Peaks Trail (NHPT) has the potential to be a world-class recreational amenity in Watauga and Ashe Counties. It can also serve as a corridor around which to expand public land in area of the Blue Ridge Mountains that is of the highest conservation value, but is underrepresented in public land compared to other portions of the Blue Ridge. The proposed route of the trail also follows a range of peaks that has a very high density of State and Federally Listed plants and animals. For this reason, we support the concept of keeping this trail far removed from High Elevation Rocky Summits and other rare natural communities that could suffer from trampling. The Master Plan notes that the NHPT does not yet have a specific route, but that a route will be chosen and built on the existing parcels of Elk Knob State Park. The planning for the route and its construction must therefore take into account the attributes of surrounding properties which the trail will likely cross in the future. The route that is chosen today on parcels within the current boundaries of the State Park will determine much about the route in sections that will be built with future land and ROW acquisitions. The impact of determining a route through the current properties will not impact the resources on those properties alone – it will determine the route and impacts on sections of the NHPT to be built in the future.

The Master Plan proposes intensive development on 6% of the current land base of the Park. However, the Master Plan does not set goals for the future footprint of development in the park. We urge State Parks to set a goal to have the future footprint of developed land decline below 4% as more land is added to the State Park. Development of parking lots, visitor’s centers, and camp grounds will help the public enjoy Elk Knob, but development also holds the potential to damage the very values for which the State Park was established. The current footprint and plans seem reasonable. However, even those well-laid plans will have impacts to scenery, water quality, and native plant communities. For example, ground disturbing activities almost always act as vectors for non-native invasive plants, and also alters natural hydrology, which can lead to erosion if not properly designed and implemented.

The biggest threat to water quality in the proposed Master Plan is the increase in impervious surfaces proposed in the form of buildings and parking lots. Unfortunately, the Master Plan is not very specific about design measures to ameliorate the increased storm run-off that will result from the increase in impervious surfaces. We do approve of the concept of detention ponds and basins to capture runoff from parking lots and roads, but we believe the plan

Natural Resources - General Concerns

should go further. Wherever possible, the Master Plan should require permeable surfaces to be used for parking lots. Permeable surfaces can save costs, reduce run-off, and improve the safety of parking lots and roads by reducing ice formation on paved surfaces. Studies by the EPA have shown numerous benefits to water quality including: reduced water temperature, better ground water recharge, reduction in water contamination and sediment loading, and up to 75% decrease in costs related to deicing salts, among other benefits.

The proposed buildings and facilities look like attractive structures that should serve the public well. In keeping with NC State Parks’ mission to conserve the natural environment, we urge that plans specify energy efficiency, and locally sourced, nontoxic materials as a top priority for the construction of all buildings. Quality, energy efficient buildings will save the people of North Carolina money in the long term, while also doing less harm to the environment.

Thank you for considering MountainTrue’s input on the Elk Knob State Park Master Plan. If we and our members can be off assistance in any way, please reach me. We look forward to working with NC State Parks for years to come to make Elk Knob State Park the best it can be.

Dear Mr. Head,

I hope this finds you well, my name is Worth Pugh and am a conservation biologist and an alumnus of Appalachian State University where I completed both my undergraduate and master degrees in biology focusing on the conservation of stream communities and their surrounding landscapes. I am writing to express my concerns about the recently-released master plan for Elk Knob State Park.

First, let me say that I am, and have always been, a staunch advocate of North Carolina State Parks (NCSP) and their mission to preserve the natural areas of North Carolina while providing so many opportunities for citizens to immerse themselves in nature and marvel at the natural beauty of the Old North State. I spent my childhood following my mother to the tops of mountains and through mucky swamps that owe their biological integrity to the protection afforded by the NCSP system. These experiences undoubtedly influenced my passion for the conservation of biodiversity and the importance of protecting the scenic and productive ecosystems in the Southeastern United States. As an adult, I have worked alongside many NCSP employees taking part in several bioblitz events including the annual New River State Park Hellbender Bioblitz. Thus, I know NCSP employees, from superintendents to groundskeepers, are passionate about the conservation of the communities and ecosystems that the NCSP system contains and are generally just good people to be around and enjoy nature with.

One thing I have always loved about NCSP properties is that although there are many modern amenities at trailheads and park offices (bathrooms, gift shops, etc.), NCSP have always appeared to take “hands-off” and/ or minimalist approaches to construction projects on park properties. I feel this allows visitors to more easily immerse themselves in local ecosystems and, more importantly, NCSP lead by example in attempting to minimize

Andy Hill High Country Regional Director, MountainTrue

Natural Resources - General Concerns

negative effects on the local environment. Since I have left the state and explored state parks in, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee I do not always see this same commitment to preserving the natural area but rather an emphasis on hotels and less nature-centric recreational activities (i.e., ziplines). It is for this reason that I decided to write to express my opinion of the recent master plan for Elk Knob State Park.

To me, Elk Knob and its surrounding peaks are some of the most beautiful, wild, and rugged landscapes in North Carolina. Their viewsheds limit the amount of ex-urban development that is more apparent at the peaks of other parks (e.g., Grandfather Mountain) producing truly astounding and magnificent views of what I consider one of the most beautiful regions on the planet. So when I began reviewing the master plan for the park I became quite confused with the scale of proposed construction projects on the property.

For example, the proposed plan for the Day Use Area (South Site) appears to include an over-the-top construction plan to support 50-75 parking spaces, an education center, and parking space for RVs. This area is part of the headwater complex that forms Meat Camp Creek a tributary to the South Fork New River that is remarkable because of its prominent water-quality, trout-fishing, and biological integrity (i.e., most of the species that are supposed to occur there are still present). The construction projects that are proposed will undeniably degrade habitat- and water-quality for this stream which supports a rich diversity of non-game fishes including stable populations of the endemic Kanawha darter and migratory White Suckers that travel up the creek from the South Fork New River to spawn. Moreover, Meat Camp Creek also supports a tremendous diversity of stream and stream-side salamanders and feeds a wetland near Appaloosa Trl. that supports several species of springbreeding amphibians (e.g., Wood Frogs, American Toads, Green Frogs, Pickerel Frogs, Spring Peepers, and Spotted Salamanders) and is the nesting ground for dozens of native birds.

While I understand the need to utilize lands that are owned by the park, I am disappointed with those involved in the planning of this Day Use Area. The planners appear to completely disregard the negative environmental impacts that these proposed construction projects would have on Meat Camp Creek and I find it surprising that you all would so carelessly ignore your mission to protect and conserve North Carolina ecosystems in the pursuit to add extra amenities for visitors. Additionally, Meat Camp Rd., in its present state, is not wide enough to support RVs and high volumes of traffic at this site. Is it the intention of the park to expand Meat Camp Rd.? Because this roadway straddles Meat Camp Creek and any extensions of the road will have lasting detrimental effects on Meat Camp Creek and its native populations.

Despite that the Day Use Area is most striking example I observed in the plans, I do not find this to be an exception but rather it is part of a pattern for the proposed plans at the park and surrounding natural areas. It appears that the planners are more interested in how they can provide comfort and attractive structures instead of focusing on the true value on these properties, the surrounding environment. This pattern is evident in the plans for the Peak campground, the needlessly-oversized visitor center, and the pavilion and lawn/stage. All of it is just too much and for what? How do these expensive, elaborate structures enhance the natural beauty of Elk Knob? They do not and instead threaten local ecosystems and the aesthetic quality inherent to a rich natural area like Elk Knob and her sister peaks.

It is for these reasons that I request that you all revisit these plans for Elk Knob State Park and put greater emphasis on highlighting the natural beauty of this region rather than attempting to construct a natural park that would be more suitable in an urban area that does not possess such tremendous natural appeal. You all do not have to carry out these expensive and intrusive construction projects to make people happy. Instead of a giant day-

Natural Resources - General Concerns

use area with 75 parking spots and a welcome center make it a more primitive trail head with less parking (< 40 spaces) some bathrooms, water fountains, and an information kiosk. That is more than enough for the majority of hikers and will lessen negative effects on Meat Camp Creek. Should you choose to reduce the scale of these plans, people will continue to love that even though Elk Knob is not a wilderness area the park can still feel like one. That’s the primary reason so many people love Elk Knob State Park including myself and it troubles me that these plans will permanently change that wild feeling. Scaling down these construction projects will greatly reduce the environmental impact of these construction projects and will be less likely to hinder the wealth of natural beauty that the park and neighboring state properties possess.

Although this is certainly not a positive response to the master plan in its current form, as I stated earlier, I love NCSP and have always enjoyed them. I appreciate the hard work you and your colleagues put in to try and make our experiences at the parks better. However, I urge you to scale back these plans and take a more “hands off” or minimalist approach that I’ve come to expect when I visit NCSP, a legacy I hope continues in perpetuity. Thank you for your time and if you should have any questions please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely, M. Worth Pugh

Hello NCPARKS.GOV,

First, it is very interesting that there is such short minimal public input( if any at all)- the ram rod scaminto the planning process of any development of Elk Knob. Sounds like this already is a done deal!

ELK KNOB is not needed for development by humans, trails and a gravel parking lot w portable toilets in the parking lot to use by humans are just perfectly fine. That is all that is even needed there.

Many years ago when the state first began purchasing the land surrounding this area of the high country it sounded like a good move for the animal creatures, the micro macro environment of the NC High Country, and for the endless future of maintaining the natural areas on and behind Snake Mountain and Elk Knob itself.

Somewhere along the trail since this land acquisition began by the present and the sustainable future of keeping this area of North Carolina 100% natural has lost its way.

Why would anyone want to decapitate Elk Knob in the first place or cut its legs off ever?

The answer is simply for human destruction of natural habitats, greed, money revenue streams for NC Parks, and zero respect for mother nature and this area of NC.

While the planners of this terrible development monster ravaging idea might be proud of a their government waste.

Natural Resources - General Concerns

The natural creatures who depend on this area for survival as well as the residents near and far valleys slopes and natural mountain tops will all get screwed forever. Unless plans for any vertical development of Elk Knob and the back side of Snake Mountain are abandoned and blocked from ever happening.

Reasons to block and abandon all plans for any development of Snake Mountain and Elk Knob are numerous. Below are a list of the irreversible problems that any such development plans will create. The human created negatives far outweigh any human created imaginary positives for any development in this area of NC on state owned land.

1. There is zero renewable clean technology design in the proposed master plan, by a bunch of stupid idiots, to build structures on the top of Elk Knob. NC Tax payers will foot the expensive utility bills forever. What is planned is a foolish wasteful conventional structure design that doesn’t even utilize Solar Energy. The architects who designed this structure, dont know how to use a compass, nor crunch heavy solar math and have slapped a piece of conventional shit rendering together and obviously have zero renewable clean technology training in the fields of wind, solar, geo thermal, solar thermal, PV and state of the art solar design.

2. The run off from oil leaks, gasoline drips, fuel spills, radiator fluid leaks, from all vehicles will pollute the area as well as everything below it.

3a. Since leaves fall off trees, and trees are leafless for nearly six months per year, any and all vehicle lights will brightly heavily contaminate( 100% light pollution) the surrounding hillsides, valleys, and mountains. There is no way to alter this from happening if Elk Knob or the back of Snake Mountain are ever developed. The wildlife will gravitate away from this area due to such a filthy nasty human implemented plan. Do not forget the street light poles NC Parks will install that will shine brightly 12 hours all evening and light up Elk Knob local natural creatures nests and nocturnal foraging areas on their homestead like candles on a greedy revenue stream disgusting Elk Knob Snake Mountain NC PARKs development cake! After hours noise pollution from generators motors humans, etc.

3b. This human made light pollution on Elk Knob will be viewable from the international space station(ISS)too! Oh yes it will, as well as the surrounding mountain slopes in every direction.

4. Noise pollution will also contaminate Elk Knob, Snake Mountain, and the surrounding valley, hillsides and mountaintops in every direction. Much of the wildlife creatures will relocate( but why drive them out of their nests, homes, and force them to move away?.

For what positive logical mother natural reason, would anyone from NCPARKS want to do this- which there is none!

5. The traffic itself , small medium and large RV’s, cars, vans, motorcycles, delivery trucks, will ruin the surrounding area because the existing curvy narrow road infrastructure to access such a proposal will negatively impact Meat Camp Rd and the several arteries that feed into this area from Boone to TN. Any proposed development of Elk Knob, near Snake Mountain, small, medium, and large to build this master plan or any other scaled down such plan that allows all of the things, or just some, listed in the proposed master plan will forever negatively impact everything around it.

Natural Resources - General Concerns

6. Sewage fields leak ladies and gentlemen. RV’s and campers owners can not be all be 100 trusted to obey all regulations. Not all humans use toilets- the urine, crap and puke will be easy to smell.

7. Music from blaring motorcycle rock and roll sound systems, loud Hip Hop, and very loud mufflers from cars trucks too, and human small of large gatherings, a stage, in a paved road park, at such a location will noise pollute the entire area forever. Go hike and stand on the back of Snake Mountain or hike up Elk Knob and listen to the wind and leaves and golden silence- which is priceless.

8. The golden silence that presently exists most of the time in this area of NC will be lost forever.

9. This proposed plan is conceived for all the wrong reasons.

10. Shelters, stage(s), picnic areas, trash cans, fire pits(fire danger) also endanger the serenity of this area and the surrounding community. Don’t forget the STINK of the dumpsters of trash and recycling that also have zero positive impact on the area and the community of residents near and across the valley.

11. The fact that the NC Conservancy and Blue Ridge Conservancy actually support(s) any development of this area is 100% fact that they are all very misguided incompetent lost souls. Together they are agreeing to allow just 6%, or any percent, of any development, to totally ruin the other 94% of this land and surrounding areas- proves their incompetent dumbass stupid-ass insanity. In addition the NC Parks are just as foolish incompetent dumbasses, stupid asses and are equally insane.

12. Please take this proposed master plan, or any plan, that includes any type of infrastructure development of Elk Knob and wipe your NC Conservancy- Blue Ridge Conservancy- and NC Parks.gov- ASS WITH IT and FLUSH IT DOWN THE TOILET WHERE IT BELONGS !

13. PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW ANY DEVELOPMENT OF ELK KNOB EVER- FOREVER! PLEASE SAVE IT LEAVE IT ALONE FOR ALL FUTURE GENERATIONS!

Sincerely

David Thompson Founder/ SolarPark.us

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Thank you for the opportunity to have input on the Elk Knob State Park Master Plan.

I am writing to urge you to create a wildlife and native plant habitat friendly trail system in the park. The Elk Knob/ Northern Peaks area is home to several unique plant communities that also foster insects and fauna that help our state maintain its unique natural heritage. We know this new park will attract thousands of visitors every year and I ask you to consider the impact this many users will have on the plant communities that call the Northern Peaks home.

Please route the trail far away from the fragile habitats and do not note their existence on the maps. Also, please work with the local biologists and experts who know the area best when considering where to place the trail.

Thank you for your consideration. Good luck with the planning process.

Sincerely,

Michelle Leonard

Mayor Pro-Tem, Bethania, N.C.

Founding Board member, Blue Ridge Conservancy Board member Audubon, NC Property owner in Watauga County Trail user and native plant appreciator

Dave,

Hello. A few thoughts concerning the EK master plan.

Although careful consideration had been made to avoid and eliminate any impacts to threatened, rare and sensitive species, my concern is that same process won’t apply to the trail building process once the plan is approved. I am against the development of a trail to go within any distance of the “knob” or within any distance of EO’s. Trail building and road development is wonderful access for the public and visitors to connect with our state’s natural heritage, but detrimental to the long term natural heritage of the communities that they dissect. As a representative of our state parks and it’s natural heritage, please be vigilant against any impact to our states high country and natural habitat.

Thank you, Wylie Paxton

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Hi Dave,

I’m reaching out regarding the final master plan for the Elk Knob Trail. I am in favor of the trail system as a whole, though I know there has been some concern about specific areas of the route passing through particularly vulnerable ecosystems. There are experts far smarter than I am who have posed that the proposed Northern Peaks trail threatens our rare native plants of North Carolina. I think the main purpose of the Elk Knob Trail should be celebrating our valuable resources in Boone, which means protecting the landscape and rare plants of this great state.

Again, the trail itself is a brilliant idea that should undoubtedly be moved forward. I just hope you all will take into consideration a more sustainable path that our community can enjoy for generations to come. Thanks for all that you do.

Dr. Jackson Boone

Dear Mr Head,

I have no detailed knowledge that would be relevant to the proposed plan but I would like to comment in a general way based on my familiarity with the fragile habitats of the Bald Mt Farm property on the other side of Elk’s Knob.

Some of the rare plants there exist in small patches, in unexpected places and are recognizable only at certain times of year and then only by botanists with extensive expertise as well as years of experience in the field, such as Alan Weakley or Harry LeGrand. Ground proofing where the trails and infrastructure are placed in the amphibolites will therefore be extremely important and could not be done as a one-time survey at one time of year without an unnecessary loss of rare plants. There are rare grasses, sedges, clubmoss, beakrush, peat mosses, hollies, orchids, bladderworts…all plants not easily recognized but important components of priceless ecosystems.

As the EKSP plan goes forward, it will cause more and more pressure to quickly develop a Northern Peaks Trail. This is where public access to the “best” views will conflict with the need to preserve remote and fragile habitats. In all the parks I have visited over 50+ years, I have never seen people deterred from taking shortcuts across fragile habitats, especially if they are rocky, have water and/or a dramatic view. The age of selfies makes this truer than ever. It only takes a few careless folk to erase a plant that has shallow roots and a tenuous hold on life at the best of times.

I hope that you will work out the most conservative route for the NPT before the EKSP plan is finalized and keep the trail far enough away from significantly rare habitats that the temptation for bikers and hikers to leave the trails is minimal. The pressure brought to bear by recreational groups and politicians on park staff is going to grow stronger the longer the route of the NPT is left undefined and people are encouraged to think mostly in terms of recreation and the local economy. Obscure unspectacular plants and their habitats won’t stand much of a chance by then!

I have the greatest respect for park staff and am grateful of your care of NC’s public lands. Sincerely, Cary Paynter

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Hi Dave,

The master plan looks both exciting and impressive. As an avid backpacker I am particularly glad to see the park’s plan to tie in to Northern Peaks Trail. My one concern about the plan centers around stewardship of our local bear population and the park’s opportunity to educate visitors and require safe food and waste storage on all park properties. In addition to having educational signage at frequented locations I would like to encourage the following:

All trash/recycling containers be bear proof.

Each front country campsite to have a bear proof food locker. All backcountry campers be given a talk about proper food/trash storage before receiving a permit or registration form.

Replacement of the current yellow bear restart food canisters with the Garcia brand canister or the Bear Vault brand canister both of which are commonly rented and required in other parks throughout our nation.

Please do NOT allow soft sided food storage bags (Ursack, etc.) to be used as an alternative to hard sidded canisters. *Even though one popular brand of soft sided bear resistant food bag has met I.G.B.C. standards when tested against grizzlies, it routinely fails against black bears and other animals with smaller teeth such as raccoons and opossums. Furthermore, according to the manufacturer the product can not be fully functional unless it is tied securely to a stationary object in the landscape, which means if the user ties it around a tree trunk it rubs the bark away when an animal tugs at it, or it gets hung from a tree limb and becomes a piñata. I would be glad to discuss the issues with these food bags with you if you’re interested.

Thank you for your time,

Tony Pace

Dave,

After review of the Elk Knob master plan, it has come to my attention that the Northern Peaks Trail is a direct threat to a set of rare native plants. The conservation of these plants is far more important than a new overlook. This plan fails to identify the strong negative effect that the trail will have on native plant communities and also fails to describe any mitigation plans for them. Please consider building a more sustainable trail that will better satisfy your goal of protecting the natural resources that make Elk Knob State Park special and unique.

Thank you,

Ashley Hull

Graduate TA: BIO-1203

Appalachian State University Biology Dept.

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

To Whom It May Concern:

For the most part, after reviewing the Elk Knob State Park expansion plans, I am very pleased to see the positive growth that is headed to this area of NC. Giving tourists a place to experience this pristine location in comfort will be a bonus for all of the state. Elk Knob has long been a hidden gem, but it’s small parking area and limited accommodations have kept it primarily as a day trip. The planned expansion will change that for the better. My concern is with the proposed Northern Peaks State Trail that has been interwoven into this project. Several of the areas where the NPST is slated to pass contain very rare plant life that is now limited to only one or two locations. The proposed ‘viewsheds’ pose a threat to these very plants. The western part of NC is not lacking in places for viewing the natural beauty of our state, so why place additional ‘viewsheds’ where they would do more harm than good? Much of the land in question was a gift of the Nature Conservancy to the state as a plant conservation project with the caveat that it be protected. Placing trails through or very close to these lands negates the urgency necessary to protect the sanctity of these lands.

Sincerely Rebecca R. Hoffman

Mr. Head,

I am writing in reference to the Elk Knob Master Plan. In short I want to share my opinions and wishes as a citizen of Watauga County, NC. I am excited about the Northern Peaks Trail but it is important that the trail must be sustainable. Much of the land associated with the development of the NPT were gifts from the Nature Conservancy with the understanding that they are nature preserves. Creating “viewsheds” is not consistent with the management of nature preserves. Compromises that endanger biodiversity are unacceptable.These viewsheds would be located on high elevation rock outcrops where rare plant communities thrive. It would appear quite unethical to destroy these rare plant communities in order to view a location. Our community and the community at large deserves a sustainable trail that does not destroy rare plant communities but rather promotes biodiversity while providing an outdoor recreation opportunity. We can accomplish both with the proper planning but once these viewsheds are created and the rare plants destroyed then it is too late.

Thank you and kind regards, Chris Caudill

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Hello

We agree with Mark Estepp’s letter to the editor in the Watauga Democrat today in which he says in part:

Let the state parks know that you want a trail, but that it must be sustainable! Compromises that endanger biodiversity are unacceptable. Our community deserves a sustainable trail that accommodates and prioritizes the needs of biodiversity as well as providing a recreation opportunity.

We are lifelong Nature Conservancy members and feel the plan has too much emphasis on recreation and not enough on preservation.

Thank you for the opportunity to voice our concerns.

Beth Higley Larry Wohlers

Fleetwood, NC

Dear Mr. Head,

I am writing to you to ask that when planning the layout of the expansion for Elk Knob State Park, you take into account the rare plants that exist on the high elevation rocky outcrops in the amphibolites. As I am sure you are aware, this habitat is very special and many of the plants that grow there are endemic. I understand that high elevation outcrops are being considered for viewsheds, and I understand the appeal of this idea, but at what cost? The development of the Northern Peaks Trail is possible largely due to land donations from the Nature Conservancy with the condition that the land be used for conservation; the creation of viewsheds in rare habitat with endangered species, several of which exist nowhere else in the world, is not consistent with conservation. What good is expanding our parks so that we can have more visitors to experience the beauty and biodiversity of our mountains if we are jeopardizing endangered species in the process? It is up to people like you to make sure that our parks are set up in a way that promotes good stewardship of our mountains, as many visitors are unaware of the need to stay on the trail and leave no trace. If a viewshed is located anywhere near rare plant habitat, species that are already imperiled are sure to be impacted (as is the case at Rough Ridge trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway).

Please consider the environmental impact when deciding which areas will receive foot traffic, and please build a sustainable trail Boone can be proud of.

Sincerely,

Britt Gilley Boone, NC

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Dear Mr. Head,

I am reaching out to add my my voice to the concerns raised in regards to rare plant species and the NPT, particularly in light of the points raised by Matt Estep in last week’s Watauga Democrat. As this is trail is being built as part of nature preserve efforts it seems that having a plan to preserve rare plant species should be weighed heavily and be a major consideration when planning outlooks and view sheds.

Thank you for your time, Ted Zerucha

Mr. Head;

My name is Robert M. Isenhour and I live in the Zionville, NC area. My family owns land on the Taterhill ridge that the Northern Peak Trail would cross. To date, I have received zero notification of any intent to create a trail system that would cross my land although in the master plan, it states that all the affected landowners have been contacted.

While the Elk Knob State Park is in my estimation, a nice park and serves the public interest, I believe the addition of the proposed Northern Peak Trail and all the amenities would destroy the natural environment we find so beautiful there.

I personally enjoy the trail systems that already exist and have traveled many miles on the Appalachian Trail. Sadly, I have seen the destruction of pristine plant life along it. I certainly don’t want to see that along the ridges of Tater, Bald and Snake, much less the building of a welcome center on the old Cherry Tree Farm. The Northern Peak trail is in my opinion, an over ambitious plan that will have a negative impact on the fragile plant life, but also the increased inflow of people will destroy the rural lifestyle of those who live in proximity to the proposed “improvements” area. In this age it seems as though some will happily destroy that which is so attractive to all of us just to make money.

As I stated earlier, my family owns land, albeit a small tract, on the Tater Hill ridge and will NOT sign an easement for this trail to cross our land. After having talked with other landowners who have similar tracts, I find they are in agreement with me. Reply requested.

Sincerely, Robert M.Isenhour

Zionville, NC

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Dear Mr. Head,

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the management plan. I hope that you will modify this to better protect rare native plants by building a more sustainable trail for the Northern Peaks Trail. It looks like threats to rare plant communities need to be better described and addressed.

Best, Cara Fiore Hello,

After looking at the final master plan for Elk Knob, I’m excited to see many improvements to the park, but very concerned about the overall ecological sustainability in such a diverse area. Please make sustainability the primary priority when planning trails. Some of the proposed trails go through many areas that are full of rare plants and animals, which I see you have marked fairly well in photos in the plan. As I’m sure you know, people have a tendency to wander off-trail, so I think it’s extremely important for the trails to stay away from as many of these endangered populations as possible. Please plan trails so they cause the least impact to all of the threatened and endangered species in the park.

The route of the Northern Peaks State Trail around The Peak is especially concerning to me. I very much appreciate that you have decided to keep the trail off the summit, but as I mentioned earlier, people wander. Do you have plans to try and prevent spur trails from developing from people walking off-trail? Signage in especially sensitive areas asking people to stay on trail, as they could damage rare environments around them? Will park rangers be involved in protecting endangered populations? I feel all these questions go back to trail planning, please keep the trail far from threatened and endangered species.

I’m also very glad to see that you have areas marked for Natural Community Restoration and Wetland Restoration. Those wetlands are some of the most spectacular communities of this area, and I appreciate any improvements to them. I would like to see as much of this as possible.

Please make ecological sustainability the primary priority when planning trails in the parks.

Thank you, Ben Brewer

Dave,

I am concerned about the proposed plan for the Northern Peaks Trail. In its current form the trail would threaten the biodiverse areas it traverses. Please consider more sustainable practices and protect our Amphibolite Mountains.

Charlie Chakales

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Hello!

I want to start off by saying that I am so excited to see the Elk Knob State Park Master Plan. Recreation and access can profoundly benefit community health and well-being, and the plan clearly has community in mind. But as an amateur naturalist, I am also wary. While it is refreshing to see natural resource stewardship, restoration, and preservation as explicit top priorities, it is all too often that promises are made and not kept. It is therefore of utmost importance that planners and developers are held accountable for the active and transparent implementation of such priorities. Below are some of the things I’d like to see:

• the least amount of impact on rare and fragile plant communities

• to not only see intentional interpretive signage, but also active and engaging educational programs. There are numerous opportunities to creatively develop a comprehensive interpretation strategy. For example, some trail systems employ naturalists who answer questions and educate hikers on the area’s habitat as well as LNT principles. Having a uniformed naturalist stationed at popular trail-heads may be an effective way to reach and inform visitors during the peak season.

• sustainable trail-building that considers the risk of wandering hikers and subsequent social trail systems. I am happy to see that the planned Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST) avoids The Peak’s summit, but its proximity to the fragile ecosystem is concerning. How do planners, developers, and managers plan to tackle the very possible challenge of social trails before it becomes a problem? Are there plans to monitor off-trail traffic? What are some alternative solutions when signage isn’t enough? Social trails can lead to habitat degradation and decreased productivity via trampling and compaction and even slow down restoration efforts. It would be a shame to lose rare and fragile flora to curious and uninformed view-seeking.

• that planners consider bypassing boardwalks in wetland areas. I understand that sometimes the best way to prevent off-trail traffic is to provide a satisfying yet sustainable trail experience, but it is also critical to minimally impact the natural areas we seek to recreate among. In this case, I think it would be best to avoid impact alltogether.

• that as plans unfold and monitoring occurs, there are informed and evidence-based adaptations and improvements to trails and campgrounds that place stewardship, restoration, and preservation as top priorities. As a former suburbanite, I am beyond thankful for the time I’ve spent hiking along the established trails scattered throughout Appalachia; without access to such recreational opportunities, I wouldn’t have been able to cultivate my passion and curiosity for nature. At the same time, though, I recognize the fragility and uniqueness of Elk Knob and its fellow Amphibolite peaks. In pursuit of reconciling recreation and conservation, I ask that during the expansion of the Elk Knob State Park, you sincerely prioritize sustainability and the protection of its unique surrounding natural resources.

Thank you for your time! Sincerely, Morgan Gaglianese-Woody Appalachian State University

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Dear Mr. Head,

I appreciate the chance to comment on the Elk Knob master plan and would especially like to address the Northern Peaks trail. I am a retired forest ecologist from ASU and have worked with local land trusts to acquire what is now the Tater Hill Plant conservation preserve. I’ve also worked with the Blueridge Parkway through a number of research grants including on the Rough Ridge trail. Last year Governor Cooper appointed me to serve on the NC Plant Conservation Board. So I am familiar with the conservation issues facing the Southern Appalachians. My own research included cliff-face and rock outcrop ecology and the rare plants associated with them.

My main concern with the Northern Peaks trail is a problem I have observed on the Rough Ridge trail on the Parkway over the course of the last 30 years. I read in the master plan of the aim to keep the trail off the ridges. But, as you know if you have ever been on the Rough Ridge trail, if the trail is even in the vicinity of a rock outcrop or cliff edge, hikers will bushwack to the open area or view. These fragile habitats can suffer irreparable damage from trampling in a very short period of time. They are also habitat for some of the rarest plants in the State. I’ve seen such damage on Elk Knob and would imagine that it will only be increased with the increased traffic from the Northern Peaks trail.

Now that I am recently retired I would be happy to volunteer my expertise in plant conservation during the planning of the routing of the Northern Peaks trail, especially as it pertains to rock outcrop and cliff ecology to insure that this trail is a sustainable one and to avoid any damage to these fragile habitats from bushwacking.

Sincerely, Dr. Gary Walker

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Dear Dave Head,

I am writing to comment on the recently published management plan for Elk Knob State Park. In general, I feel that the proposed developments within the existing state park boundary are justified. I am the father of a 6-year old boy who is dependent on a wheelchair, so I particularly appreciate the efforts to increase accessibility within the state park. However, please make every effort to avoid and protect sensitive park resources when making access accommodations.

I have numerous concerns pertaining to Elk Knob State Park’s role in the forthcoming “North Peaks State Trail.” Much of the land under consideration for the trail is already protected, thanks in no small part to the outstanding conservation organizations working to make the new trail a reality. The arrival of increased recreation use and trail infrastructure will require comprise; however, will plant preservation still be the management priority at Tater Hill? Will public hunting access still be the management priority on state game lands? Are members of the Junaluska Community being consulted about the proposed trail development in that historically marginalized area of Boone? Is a formal, publicly available “environmental impact statement” being prepared prior to trail construction?

While tourist dollars are not something to dismiss, I respectfully ask that as trail planning and development progresses, existing efforts to conserve our region’s natural, cultural, and historical heritage take precedent over commercial tourism. The Amphibolite Range is already a “world class” resource, for which no amount of development will render more impressive or valuable. Thank you very much for taking the time to read my opinions, and thank you for all your commendable efforts to protect North Carolina’s state parks and other public lands.

Sincerely,

Mark Spond, Ph.D. Boone, North Carolina

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Dear Mr. Head,

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing in regards to the Elk Knob State Park Final Master Plan. Thank you for receiving and aggregating these comments.

For the most part, I support and can offer no suggestions for or objections to the Master Plan. However, I do NOT approve of using the park as a hub for the Northern Peaks State Trail. Nor do I back the use of funds (budget lines 1 and 2, page 69) for building sections of the NPST. I am exceptionally disappointed, and frankly feel quite deceived that the report outlines in some detail plans for the park but does not describe these NPST sections. Instead, these two NPST segments feel like non-transparent add-ins that are a deliberate attempt to circumvent public opinion or approval. I can see in the budget that one trail is “from Ashe county to the South site.” The other is “trails and Three Top trailhead.” Please include in the Master Plan these proposed routes and a detailed habitat/conservation impact report, since at least one will go through an area designated as a nature preserve.

As you know, trailheads and roads that make Three Top more accessible are a threat to its rare flora, fauna, and fragile high-elevation rock outcrop community. Furthermore, a trail system that stays off the ridgeline will not keep people off the rock outcrop (and adjacent peaks) since it is easy enough to identify these points through Google Maps and Youtube videos. Hence, a plan for this NPST section must also include specific methods for how to: (1) prevent and eliminate social trails; (2) identify and penalize people who stray from the paths or engage in unlawful collections; (3) educate the public about rare flora, fauna, and the fragile nature of particular community types (including the profound damage that well-meaning recreationists can have on those organisms and communities); (4) prevent and deal with the introduction of invasive species.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Sarah Marshburn

Northern Peaks State Trail Concerns

Hi Dave,

The Elk Knob State Park master plan is impressive and I support careful development of trails. I am very glad to see most of the plan is low impact, and that you have set aside areas for preservation. I have two concerns that you may have already considered, but could not address in a brief summary plan:

1) Expanding trails in areas set aside for Dedicated Nature Preserves should be limited. Invasive species spread along developed pathways, including recreational trails. Invasive trees have already spread in other protected wild areas in our region (eg. Paulownia in Linville Gorge). For Elk Knob, I’m specifically concerned about the spread of Beech Bark Disease (BBD). BBD spread at Elk Knob for the past few years has been very fast. Once infected, there seems to be no known treatment. While the specific mechanism of scale dispersal and consequent BBD spread are unknown, effective management strategies for forest pathogens typically focus on limiting potential vectors. Developing a recreational pathways through heavily infested Beech stands that expland into potential health Beech stands needs to be avoided.

2) Recreational trails seem to be developed on rock outcrops – which are among the most fragile and endemicrich micro-sites of the Appalachians. Decades of research by several App State faculty have demonstrated that trail development along cliff tops negatively affects Appalachian endemics, and glacial relicts that occur nowhere else in the southeast. Please do not route trials near or along cliff ridges.

If you’ve already thought of these problems, sorry to hassle you. If you haven’t and would like more clarification, I’m happy to discuss. Thanks for all of your efforts.

Best, Michael Madritch, Ph.D. Associate Dean, College of Arts & Sciences Professor, Dept of Biology Appalachian State University

Highpointer Concerns

Dave,

I have just read the proposed Master Plan for Elk Knob State Park. I helped build the summit trail, have climbed Elk Knob more than a hundred times, and I live in Boone, so I have a strong interest in the future of the park.

I was glad to see the emphasis on acquiring additional land and connecting the outlying portions of the park. Like many, I hope that the Long Hope Valley/Richardson tracts can eventually become part of the park. If the state can acquire Long Hope, I think that it would be a better location for the visitor center rather than the proposed location. NC 194 would be a better “front door” than Meat Camp Road.

I want to speak up for a small group of stakeholders--the county highpointers club. There are several hundred county high-pointers nationwide who travel far and wide to climb county high points. Elk Knob itself is not a county highpoint (3rd highest in Watauga County) but two other mountains in the park are: The Peak is the highest in Ashe County and the north end of Snake Mountain tops Johnson County TN. These two are among the most challenging county highpoints in the Southeast because of limited access and the lack of trails. I am looking forward to the Northern Peaks Trail, which would open up access to The Peak. I was glad to see this trail emphasized throughout the master plan.

I was also glad to see a possible trail up the north side of Snake Mountain in one of the proposals for the north section of the park. The proposed scenic overlook there would be spectacular, and I hope it could also become a trailhead for Snake Mountain.

One other option I’d like to propose for the summit of Elk Knob. Could it become an open grassy bald with 360-degree views? My understanding is that it used to be bald when the mountain was used as pasture. I don’t know if the brush atop the mountain is a protected habitat, but it wouldn’t have to be cut back very far to really open up the vista.

I assume that the upcoming work will involve surveyors. I hope they can give us a precise elevation for the summit of Elk Knob. The 5,520 sign on top is based on the 40-foot contours on the USGS maps, but the 5,520 contour is actually well below the summit. Watauga County’s GIS survey (which has 5-foot contours) shows a top contour of 5,550. My bet is on 5,555. I don’t know what is involved in getting a USGS benchmark, but that would be a nice addition, too.

Thanks for all that you and your team have done to take care of our parks. Let me know how I can help.

Blessings, Tom Layton

Boone NC

Highpointer Concerns

Dear Mr. Head,

I was informed to contact you to share public comments on the proposed master plan for Elk Knob state park. I am originally from Wilkes County, NC but currently live in New Jersey. One of my favorite hobbies is hiking to county high points, and both The Peak (Ashe Co) and the north summit of Snake Mountain (Johnson Co) are in this category. I and other high pointers would be very excited at the prospect of accessing these mountains through maintained hiking trails on public land rather than the current approach of negotiating with land owners and bushwhacking across their property (only with permission of course). By enabling public access on foot with wellmaintained trails, this would enhance appreciation of the public for these beautiful natural areas.

Thanks for your consideration and best wishes.

Will Townes

Master Plan Programming Concerns

Hello,

My name is Taylor Broyhill. I am a planner based in Boone and was part of the team that authored the Northern Peaks Trail Master Plan. You & the consulting team have done a very nice job with the Elk Knob State Park Master Plan and in casting a vision for the future of the park. I am excited to see this plan realized, especially as it pertains to implementation of the NPST.

My only comment/observation is that backcountry camping doesn’t seem to be addressed very directly. 70% of respondents to the public engagement efforts indicated they intend to use backcountry trails and ranked backcountry camping as the #2 priority, but it seems that only the existing backcountry camping area at the park is identified on the map. The site plans appear to emphasize RV and car-camping over low-impact backcountry camping that is preferred by the majority of stakeholders. Will new areas of backcountry camping be permitted in the park? Perhaps the areas adjacent to and accessed by the remote sections of the NPST are appropriate for backcountry camping? I recommend noting new backcountry camping areas on the maps; otherwise it appears that camping is primarily permitted only in the campgrounds.

Thanks for considering these comments and again, I appreciate the work that you, the consulting team, and State Parks staff have done on this master plan!

Best regards, Taylor Gupton Broyhill, AICP

Hi, Dave.

We live close to Elk Knob State Park, and we look forward to the Park reaching its full potential. We do hope and expect that most of the immediate effort will be land acquisition. We do think that the RV Park and visitor center at the PapA Noel tree farm is a bit excessive.

Thanks!

Don Mikush

Master Plan Programming Concerns

Hi Dave,

My name is Bubba Goodman, I will be affected two ways by the park trail. I own property on Tater Hill and I have a house on Peak rd at the bottom of Peak mt. I know the Papa Noel farm very well having worked on it and was a friend of the Coan family for years. I think it will make an excellent campground, but the amount of traffic will be horrible to deal with. Hy 88 is already getting busy just from all the biking people are doing. I can imagine that a truck pulling a camper by people who have never seen a curvy road meeting a tractor trailer could get interesting. The Peak rd doesn’t need anymore cars flying around corners. We already have too many doing that.

I’ve been flying hang gliders and paragliders off Tater since the late 70s. I was fortunate to buy 4 acres where we launch to preserve flying foot launchable aircraft for the foreseeable future. There was no mention of how the trails will be connected. Could you tell me where the trail will go in regards to Tater, Rich Mt. Bald, and Snake Mt? I have lots of concerns about the amount of people that will be hiking that way. I think the top of Tater is one of the most beautiful places on the planet and love to share the view, but I also like the privacy it offers.

One thing I love about hiking around here is you have to earn it. If you want to hike the Peak you’re going to get scraped up and eaten by nettles. If you want an easy hike Elk Knob is hard to beat. For me the trail plans try to make the place too clean and neat. These mountains have a lot to offer the way they are so I’d be in favor of the least amount of destruction to make the place nice to everyone.

Sincerely Bubba Goodman

Hello Dave, Matt here and I live on highway 88 between sutherland road and the tennessee state line. First and foremost I would like to express my excitement for the master plan, it appears to be very thorough and certainly is monumental! There are a few things I would like to ask about. The main concern with the things I have seen is the land on brown holler road leading to the park’s access point. As I am sure you know the area is not friendly, and I have been turned around on the road and told to leave just trying to drive up to access the peak. If you are visiting the site up there anytime and wouldn’t mind a visitor I would love to tag along to see the peak! My next question regards any existing rock climbing in the park. Will any small cliff faces or boulders within the park be accessible for climbing or is that yet to be determined and will those be judged separately depending on locations?

I know a lot of neighbors here are also into horseback riding and just wondered if there had been any consideration for adding that activity to the parks list with some horse friendly trails?

Thanks for taking the time to read and respond.

Matthew Duval

Master Plan Programming Concerns

Greetings!

My wife Jennifer and I own the Thomas Sutherland house (est 1807) at 830 Sutherland Rd. We are in the Sutherland Rural Historic District. We are extremely pleased with the conservation efforts of the State Park and encourage expansion of its land in the area. We are currently restoring our 213 year old house to preserve this valley’s great history.

In regards to the master plan and soliciting feedback from the community, I’d like to offer my two cents.

1. Mountain bike trails: I’d love to see the back country trail or some new trails opened up to mountain bikes even if it’s just during weekdays when hiking traffic is low. Im sure local biking groups and Boy Scouts can help with labor to build new trails. The mountain bike pump track at the campground is very exciting!

2. Horse back access: a majority of my neighbors have horses and desperately want access to the state park for trail riding. Many neighbors have complained about how they used to ride their horses all the time on that land. Then the state purchased it and now there’s no access. A 200 year old local tradition was gone. I just read in a history book about the ancestors of these locals riding horses on what is now state land dating back to the early 1800s. Now there’s no access for horses for current and future generations to continue that very important tradition. The old road up to the Peak was an old road specifically mentioned.

3. Rental Cabins: the cabins at the campground seem to compete with local cabin rentals. I’d rather just see camp sites for tent and RV only.

4. ATV access: I’m not a big ATV guy but every single neighbor has one and wants to be able to ride up the peak. My only concern is litter. People on ATVs tend to pack more in and indiscriminately toss their rubbish on the road or trail. Electric dirt bikes and ATVs are starting to appear and are silent. So noise pollution isn’t a concern.

Thank you so much for your work on this project! We look forward to seeing it come to fruition!

Respectfully, Caleb Thorp

Historic Property Concerns

Hello,

I just saw the Elk Knob master plan (which looks great), and am wondering if it’s possible to get one’s property included in the Sutherland historic district? We live in an 1880s farmhouse just outside of the district (address removed from public document for privacy) and we are interested in having our property and barn (which is also very old) included in the historic district. I don’t know if you are allowing addresses that are not directly on Sutherland Road be part of it, but we are right next to Sutherland Road.

Thanks!

Sarah K. Carmichael, Ph.D.

Professor of Geology

Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Appalachian State University

Text & Copy Concerns

Good morning,

I would like to offer a couple of quick comments on the new Master Plan. I think you have done an excellent job and I appreciate the thoroughness and forward thinking approach you have taken. I want to particularly commend the increased inclusion and support for connections to the Northern Peaks Trail. The conservation value and eco nomic impact of the Trail would be significant for our rural High Country communities.

I would like to note, however, the scarcity of mention of the public resources that not only ensured the initial pro tection of the Park, but will also be essential to expansion efforts in the future. The Plan’s historic timeline notes the importance The Nature Conservancy played in acquiring the land from Sterling Carroll and then says the lands were “transferred” to the state. The lands were actually purchased from the Nature Conservancy by the Natural Heritage Trust Fund and the Clean Water Management Trust Fund. Without those public funding sources the state would never have acquired the land.

I hope that you will add some language to reflect that history and encourage more public support for existing land and water protection funding, both state and federal. That support will be vital to increased funding that will enable adding lands to both the Park and the Northern Peaks Trail in the future.

Thank you again for this great work and your ongoing efforts.

Best Regards, Alan Briggs West Jefferson

General Concerns and Thanks

Mr. Head and Division,

I have reviewed the master plan and it looks wonderful! I have lived in the area my whole life and have visited the park many times. I know many locals and community members don’t visit and use the park as much because it’s been “somewhat the same” for a very long time. I think this new plan will help with that issue and make it more of a staple and useful place in the community. Thank you guys for everything you do!

Jonathan Hodges

Firefighter/PIO, Deep Gap Fire Dept. Security Officer, TME Enterprises Inc. Member, Watauga Rescue Squad

General Concerns and Thanks

Sir,

I would like to get in contact with the construction supervisor for the new project at Elk Knob. I am currently serving my last tour with NCNG at below location. I am looking at the needs for new buildings and trails. It is very interesting that the plan shows reuse/sustainable design of buildings along with their operation. One of the points of your plan of use of harvested timber, solar, and special lighting is of particular interest to me. I am moving to the area and would like to help with the project. I am a NC Licensed General Contractor for Commercial and Residential, License #48508. Let me know if there is any other information you need from me.

Respectfully, MAJ William Withers

General Concerns and Thanks

Mr. Head,

I introduce myself as a local Timber Frame builder and subcontractor – with a deep appreciation of history. Please review the three sections and PDFs and Links as ideas to share with your planners and architects for Elk Knob State Park, on the old Buffalo Rd. from Meat Camp to Trade, TN.

I: The 2 PDFs (above) are of commercial timber frame projects we did according to Architectural Plans

1) in Avery County – a Timber Frame entrance at the YMCA

2) a Timber Frame addition onto a cc block commercial structure in Charlotte.

3) a Timber Frame pavilion on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The photos illustrate possible Historic Architecture considerations of Timber or Log as a potential asset to represent the History of Boone Pioneers and Agriculture – (The Apple Barn in Vallie Crucis is a Timber Frame.) Log Homes and Barns throughout Watauga and Ashe Counties illustrate both the Pioneer and the Agricultural History of our area. Meat Camp is an historic start of The Buffalo Rd. To Trade TN.

II. 4 Timber Frame and Log Idea Link:

https://www.mountainconstruction.com/hearthstone-services/hearthstone-gallery/barns-products/wnc-agricul ture-center/ [mountainconstruction.com] https://www.mountainconstruction.com/oday-discovery-lodge/ [mountainconstruction.com] https://www.mountainconstruction.com/hearthstone-services/hearthstone-gallery/barns-products/ward-barn/ [mountainconstruction.com] https://www.mountainconstruction.com/timber-frame-barn/ [mountainconstruction.com]

III. Timber Frame Barns and Commercial IDEAS

https://www.mountainconstruction.com/hearthstone-services/commercial-barns/ [mountainconstruction.com] https://www.mountainconstruction.com/hearthstone-services/buildersarchitects/ [mountainconstruction.com]

Thank you so much for your time in review. I look forward to hearing from you. I will note that I have worked with Hearthstone Log and Timber Projects since 1995!

Hearthstones Main Web Site is www.hearthstonehomes.com [hearthstonehomes.com] . The planning and produc tion facility is just west of Asheville on I-40. We make ourselves available to you and others in planning.

We are glad to meet with and assist you and your design/planning team at our facility.

Sincerely, Mark H. Kirkpatrick

Mountain Construction, Inc.