Joy Valley Nature Preserve Protects Thousands of Acres in Appalachian Ohio

What began as one family’s wish to keep their land unspoiled has become one of the largest private conservation efforts by nonprofit organizations in Ohio’s history. Nearly 3,000 acres of forests and ridges in southeast Ohio are now permanently protected as the new Joy Valley Nature Preserve, thanks to a partnership between the Athens Conservancy and The Nature Conservancy. The preserve fulfills landowner Betty Lowe’s vision to keep the forest wild and protected, preserving native biodiversity and safeguarding it from future development. 

“The land has been good to her and her family, and she wanted to give back,” says Brian Blair, vice president of the Athens Conservancy Board. “She wanted to allow that to continue for the local community … to enjoy the property and also [recognize] that it is an important, large area worthy of protection in its own right.”

Spanning 2,998 acres, Joy Valley Nature Preserve nearly doubles the acreage managed by the Athens Conservancy. About 88% of the preserve is mature hardwood forest, home to white oak, tulip poplar, American beech and shagbark hickory, along with pine and walnut groves planted by the Lowe family.

The preserve supports thriving wildlife, including 26 species of warblers, several bat species and a wide range of amphibians. The Sharps Fork of Federal Creek winds through the property, providing critical aquatic habitat for fish and other species. While an opening date has yet to be set, plans are underway to add hiking trails and interpretive signs. The Athens Conservancy will oversee, manage and steward the land, while The Nature Conservancy will hold a permanent easement to guarantee its protection.

“We’re just really thrilled about the gift from Mrs. Lowe, …” Blair says, “for the chance to protect this large area and also for the people of Ohio.” For more information, visit athensconservancy.org.

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