Mainspring Conservation Trust

Stewards of the Southern Blue Ridge

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Our Story

In 1995, a group of visionaries began meeting informally in Franklin, North Carolina to discuss the rapid pace of development in Western North Carolina. Over coffee, they discussed the impact that growth could have on the mountains, streams and ancient farmlands. By 1997 they had officially formed a nonprofit that is now Mainspring Conservation Trust.

With a modest budget and a strategic plan that encouraged thoughtful conservation within positive economic development, the Land Trust for the Little Tennessee (LTLT) took off.

Paul Carlson, Mainspring's founding Executive Director
Paul Carlson, Mainspring’s founding Executive Director

Under the leadership of founding director Paul Carlson, the nonprofit originally focused on promoting conservation and stewardship of private lands, first in the upper Little Tennessee Watershed, then expanding into the Tuckasegee and Hiwassee watersheds. LTLT itself also grew, increasing staff from one to seven.

In 2012, the Little Tennessee Watershed Association merged with LTLT, broadening its mission to incorporate stream bank restoration and monitoring water quality.

A youth education component was included to complement the adult learning opportunities already in place and LTLT’s three core program areas were clearly defined as conserve, restore and connect. The merger also brought expert aquatic and administrative staff to the team. Paul retired in 2014.

By 2015, LTLT had grown to a staff of eleven, now led by Sharon Fouts Taylor, who had been working at LTLT in multiple capacities since 2001 .

In 2016, LTLT changed its name to Mainspring Conservation Trust to reflect what the organization has grown to be: the motivating force for conservation in the heart of the Southern Blue Ridge. The organization celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2017.

Latest News

Mainspring Adds to Popular Preserve

Mainspring Adds to Popular Preserve

Taylor to Retire as Executive Director

Taylor to Retire as Executive Director

Smoky Mountain News: Communities celebrate new future of Nikwasi

Smoky Mountain News: Communities celebrate new future of Nikwasi

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557 East Main Street
Franklin, NC 28734
828-524-2711
46 Valley River Avenue
Murphy, NC 28906
828-837-6383
642 West Main Street
Sylva, NC 28779
828-524-2711

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