Tennessee River Gorge Trust

The Nature Conservancy is a global organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters essential for all life, working across more than 80 countries and territories. With a focus on tackling climate change and biodiversity loss, the organization engages local communities and develops innovative solutions to protect vital ecosystems. Through initiatives aimed at sequestering carbon emissions, safeguarding habitats, and conserving diverse environments, The Nature Conservancy strives to create climate-resilient communities. Their commitment to science and collaboration empowers individuals and communities to actively participate in conservation efforts for a sustainable future. Generated from the website

HistoryThe Tennessee Overhill began as a pilot cultural tourism program. Upon completion of the pilot period, it became a permanent organization with a mission to promote and preserve the natural and cultural resources of McMinn, Monroe, and Polk counties through cultural tourism. The counties are located in Southeast Tennessee. The entire southern half of the Cherokee National Forest is found in the Tennessee Overhill along with the Ocoee, Hiwassee, Tellico, and Conasauga rivers. The Tennessee Overhill also owns the Old Line Railroad, home of the Hiwassee River Rail Adventure. In addition to an annual tourism marketing campaign, the Tennessee Overhill also works to preserve and interpret the history and culture of the region. Presently, the organization is researching the route the Trail of Tears took through the area, continuing to develop and promote the Unicoi Turnpike Trail, and seeking funding to develop an artists survey and online directory of artists.Specialtiescultural tourism, preservation, arts, history