Land Conservation Advisory Board Meeting | March 18, 2026

Land Conservation Advisory Board Meeting Recap – March 18, 2026

The Land Conservation Advisory Board (LCAB) convened on March 18, 2026, to discuss ongoing land conservation efforts in Buncombe County and address related updates. The meeting provided valuable insights into the work of key partner organizations, including the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SHC) and RiverLink, as well as updates on county-funded conservation projects. No members of the public were present to offer comments during the meeting.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to presentations from SHC and RiverLink, showcasing their respective missions and ongoing projects. Jess Lagas of the SHC detailed their regional conservation work, emphasizing a focus on protecting habitat, scenic views, water quality, working farms, and recreational areas across seven counties. She explained the process of securing conservation easements – voluntary agreements with landowners that permanently restrict development while allowing continued ownership and use. RiverLink, meanwhile, provided updates on several projects moving forward, including the Gateway Park project (construction documents received), a stream restoration effort at Beacon Park pending NRCS grant approval, and progress on a passive park at the Swananoa River property impacted by Hurricane Colleen. A brief, preliminary discussion was held regarding a potential dam removal project in Asheville, with early concerns raised about securing support from the Metropolitan Sewerage District (MSD).

The board approved several key actions during the meeting. The agenda and minutes from the previous February 18th meeting were unanimously approved, ensuring proper record-keeping. Crucially, the Buncombe County Commissioners had already approved transaction costs for two agricultural advisory board donation easements and funding for conservation efforts at the Duck Branch and Two Light Center tracts, demonstrating ongoing county support for land preservation. SHC also celebrated a recent closing on the Deaver View project, marking another successful conservation effort.

Several action items emerged from the discussion, highlighting next steps for both the board and partner organizations. Stag will follow up with Honey at SHC to better understand their land prioritization process, particularly regarding inquiries like the north face of Mount Pisgah. Residents seeking information about Buncombe County’s reappraisal process were directed to attend community events hosted by the county tax office. The board also initiated a discussion about creating a more accessible tracking system for conservation projects, potentially with quarterly updates to improve transparency and public awareness. Finally, planning is underway for a farmland conservation community meeting tentatively scheduled for November 10th or 12th, with coordination efforts involving Terry Wells, Michelle, Ariel, and Martha. Board members were encouraged to engage with their county commissioners regarding the dam removal discussion, emphasizing the importance of securing necessary support.

This meeting underscored Buncombe County’s ongoing commitment to land conservation, showcasing the collaborative efforts of organizations like SHC and RiverLink. The decisions made and discussions held directly impact the preservation of our natural resources, ensuring scenic landscapes, clean water, and thriving working farms for current and future generations. Residents interested in learning more about farmland conservation are encouraged to attend the upcoming community meeting when dates are finalized.