West Virginia Highlands Conservancy

About

The West Virginia Highlands Conservancy is one of the state’s oldest environmental organizations, with a long history of public lands and wilderness advocacy. The group engages in policy work, public education, and legal action to protect forests, rivers, and high-elevation habitats, particularly in and around the Monongahela National Forest. Its mission is to preserve the ecological integrity and scenic values of West Virginia’s highlands.

These protected landscapes are central to the state’s identity as an outdoor destination, supporting hiking, hunting, fishing, and other forms of recreation. By championing strong protections for these areas, the Highlands Conservancy helps ensure that the experiences promoted by Access Appalachia remain possible and sustainable over the long term.