The Smoky Mountain Native Plants Association (SMNPA) is located in Graham County, an economically distressed county in the NC mountains. Comprised of Anglo (38%), Cherokee (50%), and Hispanic (12%) members, fully-integrated SMNPA uses native plant propagation to preserve Appalachian plant resources and mountain cultural heritage, provide economic opportunity and develop job skills and alternative crops. The project brings together local, state and federal partners.
Housed at Stecoah Valley Center’s commercial kitchen, SMNPA participants learn to sustainably harvest ramps; make and store the product; package, inventory and market the locally-grown, USDA- and FDA-certified ramps. Funded in part by Resourceful Communities’ CNEF program, SMNPA’s award-winning Stone Ground Cornmeal with Ramps led to the creation of 62 seasonal jobs this year.
Visit SMNPA's website to learn more.
Working for more than 15 years in distressed communities throughout North Carolina, Resourceful Communities follows the lead and wisdom of local leaders. Learn more about our partners.
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Your gift provides the resources to promote self-sufficient, equitable, and sustainable communities throughout North Carolina.
Powered by: Phase2 TechnologyResourceful Communities Program
The Conservation Fund
Post Office Box 271
Chapel Hill, NC 27514-0271
Phone: 919.967.2223
Fax: 919.967.9702
rcp@conservationfund.org
