Land Donation Expands Green Mountain Nature Preserve

Huntsville Residents Bob and Sue Kuehlthau have donated 248 acres to Land Trust of North Alabama expanding Green Mountain Nature Preserve and sharing land they love with the community.

The Keuhlthau’s also donated the original 122 acres in South Huntsville that created the preserve in 2016, including the incredibly popular Alum Hollow Trail. This new donation permanently preserves a significant area of the mountain, which includes the southern portion of the existing trail system. With long term plans to conserve the land, the Kuehlthau’s granted access for trail development several years ago.

“Sue and I are grateful for the opportunity to help preserve more of the beautiful woodland of Green Mountain. Since my first hike in the area in 1969 I have loved the mountain’s trees and rocky slopes so close to downtown Huntsville.  The Land Trust and its many volunteers have done a wonderful job laying out and constructing trails making this natural area accessible. It makes us happy to expand the Trust’s Green Mountain Nature Preserve with this adjoining acreage,” said Bob Kuehlthau.

The 248.62-acre property adjoins the southern border of the existing Land Trust preserve. A steeply sloped woodland, this area of the mountain is primarily populated with a mix of oak, hickory, and pine. There are several large creeks, deep hollows, and rolling hills, as well as, several caves and pits according to the National Speleological Society. Existing trails on the property include Talus Trail, Three Sisters Loop, and Gibson Trail. This area also provides an important piece of the Land Trust’s River to Gap Vision to establish a natural corridor connecting Blevins Gap to the Tennessee River.

“The Kuehlthau’s generosity and foresight will make it possible to protect disappearing habitat and provide sanctuary for wildlife as well as people. Conservation of these natural spaces becomes more important and more difficult as our community grows so we’re incredibly grateful for their gift,” said Marie Bostick, Land Trust of North Alabama Executive Director.

The Land Trust will conduct property assessments to determine future management plans and potential for additional trail development. There are no definitive plans for new trails at this time.

Visitors can find information about Green Mountain Nature Preserve and a trail map at landtrustnal.org/green-mountain-preserve. By supporting the Land Trust as a member, you can help make conservation efforts like this one possible! Join or renew your membership at landtrustnal.org/join.