Creating a Low-Density Development

Many developments in the mountain areas of western North Carolina are the result of a developer’s desire to carve out as many lots as possible for maximum profit. To achieve this, many developers will clear out most of the trees and undergrowth for ease of construction and to gain a “big view.” But this costs not only the environment, but the homeowner as well in heating and cooling costs.

Developments like this often have very steep roads so as to maximize the number of lots by reducing the number of switch-backs. Steep roads are unusable in winter and greatly increase run-off and potentially harmful silting of streams and trout waters. When land is developed in such a manner, the beauty and natural vitality of the area is threatened, ironic considering this is what originally attracted the homeowners in the first place.

History and Vision for this Unique Yellow Mountain Preserve

Yellow Mountain Entry

Located near the NC/TN line in Roaring Creek Valley near Roan Mountain Highlands, Yellow Mountain Preserve consists of 140 acres perfectly suited for a preservation-oriented development. The property’s owner-developer is protecting the land’s integrity through conservation easements, covenants, and other green development techniques. He will put no more than 9-10 houses on the entire 140 acres, and thus minimize the ecological impact.

Mr. Jim Atria, a conservation-minded land owner, approached Sundance Mountain Lands to list the property because he knew we could understand his goals of conservation and preservation, and help him find conservation-minded buyers who share his vision. In the beginning, before we came on the scene, Mr. Atria had sold 250 acres of adjoining land to a consortium of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, the Appalachian Trails Conservancy and the Trust for Public Land, while placing his remaining 140 acres under a conservation easement held by the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy.

Ecologically-Sound Property Development in NC

Beth and Craig of Sundance Mountain Lands are grateful for the opportunity to work with Mr. Atria. He has utilized green construction features in the four south-facing log homes he has already built at Yellow Mountain Preserve. His roads and drives have reasonable gradients, superior construction for usability and maintenance, with minimal run-off and silting. Utilities are underground. The roadbed is gravel, making it more usable in icy or snowy conditions, and reduces run-off which helps the water table and heats the air far less than asphalt.

The tree canopy is largely intact, as is the undergrowth, except where the right-of-way passes and structures are situated. The covenants and the conservation easement allow for only limited cutting of trees and their limbs and other vegetation. Wildlife is also protected.

Eventually the Federal Government and the State of North Carolina will buy the conservancy-owned acres. Property owners in the development will be assured that their investment is kept pristine and thoroughly protected forever. The development is now surrounded by thousands of acres of protected lands, sustaining the viewshed and ecosystems.

By achieving the highest and best use of the property from a higher perspective, the owner is enjoying profits, with the satisfaction of having preserved Yellow Mountain’s natural beauty and ambiance for himself, people who buy there, residents of Roaring Creek Valley, and the ecosystem itself.