Piedmont Land Conservancy adds 311-acre tract along Mitchell River
An aerial view shows the path of the Mitchell River as it runs alongside land that is being set aside for a nature preserve. Image courtesy of the Piedmont Land Conservancy
The Piedmont Land Conservancy has been eyeing a piece of property in Surry County for more than 20 years. Now, organization leaders say they’ve acquired it.
The Mitchell River begins in the Blue Ridge Mountains and meanders its way south to the Yadkin River. Along the way, there’s a gentle spot outside of Elkin that became the main target for land preservation.
That’s according to Kevin Redding, executive director of the Piedmont Land Conservancy. He says these waters are an important draw for trout fishing and provide vital habitat for local aquatic wildlife.
“And if you fish, there should be interest or paddle. If you drink water that comes out of the Yadkin River, they should be interested in water quality in the Mitchell River and then to the Yadkin River," he says. "It's a hub of a lot of interest.”
Most of the 311 acres are forested, including a long section bordering the river. The land features steep hills with abundant trees and rhododendrons leading to bluffs overlooking the water.
Redding says the plan is to provide up to five miles of hiking trails available to the public. But that will likely take a year or more.
The Surry County property will be the conservancy’s fourth land preserve, joining projects in Randolph, Rockingham and Forsyth.
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