National Heritage Area
The Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area (AFNHA) was designated as a National Heritage Area in March 2019 recognizing the national significance of our region’s forest heritage and those who shaped it.
Learn more about AFNHA? Watch our informational video!
What does National Heritage Area designation mean?
National Recognition of our forest heritage as a story of national importance.
Co-Branding with the National Park Service (NPS) – including placement on NPS websites and promotional materials.
Technical Assistance from the NPS to help support and grow our programs.
Eligibility for Matching Federal Funds, helping us secure and leverage resources for our region.
Support for Voluntary, Locally-Led Projects that preserve heritage, promote tourism, and strengthen communities.
What does it not mean?
No new federal land or ownership.
No new regulations or zoning laws.
No impact on land use—public or private.
No authority to manage, regulate, or control property.
No required participation—we only work with willing partners.
How we earned designation
AFNHA completed a detailed Feasibility Study, documenting our eligibility.
Over 150 letters of support were submitted by organizations and individuals across the region.
After more than seven years of advocacy, the designation bill was passed in 2019.
What is a National Heritage Area?
National Heritage Areas (NHAs) are lived-in landscapes where natural, cultural, and historic resources create a story of national significance. Unlike national parks, NHAs are locally managed and rely on collaboration. Consequently, NHA entities collaborate with communities to determine how to make heritage relevant to local interests and needs.
Key Features of NHAs:
Locally controlled, with support from the National Park Service.
No federal land ownership or regulatory authority.
Focused on grants, education, and community outreach.
Average return of $5.50 for every $1 of federal investment.
Designed to create jobs, sustain local economies, and celebrate regional heritage.
How can AFNHA benefit our region?
Other long-standing NHAs offer strong examples of impact.
For example, the National Coal Heritage Area in southern West Virginia generates:
$207 million annually in economic impact
Supports 2,744 jobs
Brings in $16.8 million in tax revenue.
AFNHA is the only NHA focused on forest heritage, creating opportunities to:
Develop interpretation and cultural programs
Preserve historic and natural resources
Recognize the evolving role of the forest industry
Share our legacy with the world.
Support the Future of National Heritage Areas
There are currently 55 National Heritage Areas across the country. AFNHA is proud to be one of them and supports the National Heritage Area Program Bill (H.R. 1049) to strengthen and formalize the program nationwide. This bill would provide:
Clear criteria for future designations,
More stable funding,
Improved oversight and coordination.
Partner organizations can show support through letters, endorsements, and advocacy to ensure NHAs continue to benefit communities for generations to come.
