The Georgia-Alabama Land Trust and the Southeastern Cave Conservancy announced they are partnering to create the largest cave preserve in Georgia at Johnson's Crook in Dade County.
The Charles B. Henson Cave Preserve at Rising Fawn will include approximately 1,300 acres of land that has been acquired by the land trust over a three-year period at the failed subdivision known as The Preserve at Rising Fawn.
Officials said, "The Preserve is located in the unique and threatened landscape of Johnson's Crook, a deep horseshoe-shaped cove with high bluffs in the Lookout Mountain ridge."
The land trust recently sold most of its holdings in Johnson's Crook to a conservation buyer who will protect the land with a conservation easement, it was stated.
Officials stated, "The land trust will continue to manage the land and seek donations of additional lots.
"Many of the slopes of Johnson's Crook or underlined by limestone bedrock in which more than 30 known caves have formed. These caves are important habitat for many types of cave-dwelling species, and also have in the past been popular among recreational caving enthusiasts for their varied challenges and remarkable beauty."
Katherine Eddings, executive director of the Georgia-Alabama Land Trust, said, "Partnering with SCCI is a natural fit for this property given its extensive cave system."
Ron Miller, SCCI chairman, said, "We are very excited to work with GALT in managing one of Georgia's most significant cave areas. We are also honored that this cave preserve is being named in memory of long time SCCI member and benefactor Chuck Henson. Johnsons Crook and its many caves held a special place in Chuck's heart, and he worked tirelessly in the last years of his life to save this exceptional landscape."