This summer, TennGreen Land Conservancy and landowner Chris Johnsen completed an effort to permanently protect a portion of Tennessee’s natural beauty: a conservation easement that safeguards 36 acres of pristine forest in Ashland City. Called Dry Fork Hollow Conservation Easement, this lush, forested land sits nestled near Highway 12 directly across from the Ashland City Fairgrounds. In kind, Dry Fork Hollow faced significant risk of development amid Ashland City’s rapid expansion before becoming a TennGreen conservation easement.
These hilly 36 acres are also part of the Western Highland Rim Forests Conservation Opportunity Area (COA), identified by the 2015 Tennessee State Wildlife Action Plan.
This COA represents the largest contiguous forest habitat in Middle Tennessee, connecting to the extensive Central Hardwoods forest region that stretches northward.
“There are trees out here well over 200 years old. Ferns grow wild everywhere. The turkeys are out here often. So are the hummingbirds and box turtles. I have vegetable and flower gardens by the house. All of this would be gone someday if I didn’t protect it, and I’ve been able to with TennGreen,” said landowner Ms. Johnsen.
Officials said, "TennGreen’s conservation easements are meticulously designed to protect the land’s unique natural resources. The new easement will shield this precious forest from three main threats: excessive subdivision, significant development and construction, and harmful timbering or harvesting activities. By restricting destructive actions, the easement ensures the land will remain a thriving habitat for diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the ecological health of the Ashland City region."0
“My late husband, Roger, and I bought this property in 1991. Now that I have this conservation easement, I can move somewhere, pass on or whatever comes, and this land will never be developed,” Ms. Johnsen added.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chris Johnsen for partnering with us on this vital project. Together, we are making a lasting impact, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and benefits of our natural landscapes. Let’s continue to champion conservation and celebrate each step forward in our journey to preserve Tennessee’s incredible natural heritage,” said Alice Hudson Pell, executive director, TennGreen Land Conservancy.
Officials said, "As Tennessee continues to rapidly develop, conservation efforts are more crucial than ever. The completion of the Dry Fork Hollow Conservation Easement marks a significant victory and sets a precedent for future efforts to protect vulnerable lands in our communities."