Mid-Atlantic Highlands Action Program: Realizing the Legacy
The document provides a strong case for renewed support for this important initiative that protects the Appalachian landscape and culture and fosters economic growth in Appalachian communities.Begun in 2002, HAP, a federal, state, and local partnership, has benefited Highland communities and their environment. Located in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, the Mid-Atlantic Highlands support some of the most diverse and ecologically important ecological resources on Earth.
After its establishment, HAP leveraged $8.8 million in federal planning and implementation funds with partner resources to protect over 10,000 acres of Appalachian wild lands and restore hundreds of acres of forests and wetlands and miles of mountain streams. The Realizing the Legacy report will serve as the primary instrument to garner renewed consideration for the continuance of the HAP effort. The report can be downloaded at https://www.fws.gov/chesapeakebay/pdf/HAPRealizingtheLegacy.pdf.