As years have passed, the land across the Cumberland Plateau has been increasingly developed. Those who are familiar with it know why – its location, temperate weather and natural beauty make it a popular place for second homes or for retirement. In 2012, Foothills Land Conservancy worked to place a conservation easement on over 1100 acres of land across Coffee and Grundy counties, ensuring that it would be protected from this growth surge. Now, hundreds of different varieties of flora, fauna, wildlife and native species are also protected from the consequences of progress that, unfortunately, sometimes goes unchecked.

Originally known as Wild Boar, this property is within 20 miles of both the Savage Gulf Class II Natural Scientific State Natural Area and the South Cumberland State Recreation Area, and within 30 miles of the Fall Creek Falls State Park and the Prentice Cooper State Forest and Wildlife Management Area. The location provides an important corridor for the safe movement of wildlife between these protected areas and boasts an astounding amount of plant and animal diversity. Hundreds of different species were identified as the property was assessed and explored; the mixed forest, variety of slopes, creeks, and fields found on the property collectively support a myriad of different biomes and habitats.

It also lies within the watershed of the Upper Elk River, a tributary of the Tennessee River. Several other streams, creeks, and ephemeral wetlands are located on the property, and some are classified as having regional significance for the high quality of their water. Other natural features are essential habitat for many amphibian species, and important nesting and foraging sites for birds and small mammals. Protection of these wetlands and associated species is essential to the preservation of the ecosystems of the Cumberland Plateau. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) reported 12 rare or endangered species within a four-mile radius of the center of the acreage, including four vertebrate animals, four invertebrates and four vascular plant species.

Today, Keith Thompson calls this land the Cumberland Wilderness Retreat. It offers an additional 90-acre camp that is separate from the land protected by the easement, for adults and families to use and enjoy together. The retreat hosts several worship and music nights annually, and is within 12 miles of Manchester where the Bonaroo festival attracts 80,000 people to the area (a different kind of wildlife altogether!). Keith’s vision for the property’s future is to open it up and share it with anyone who is interested in visiting. There are trails to explore and beautiful views to experience from the bluffs showcasing the scenic character of the area. “This is a level of beauty that’s hard to find other places, and it’s something I feel needs to be shared with anyone who wants to see it,” Keith says. “To me, it’s definitely spiritual and I am blessed to be able to protect a special part of God’s great creation.”