Commissioners considering plan that would conserve 20% of Buncombe County's acreage

BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) — Asheville’s beautiful mountains draw millions of tourists to hike and enjoy the views each year.

Now, Buncombe County commissioners are considering taking preservation of those sights a step further.

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They will consider adopting a goal to conserve 20% of the county’s acreage in the next eight years.

Large tracts of land along ridgetops and watersheds are considered one priority, along with conserving historic farm land.

A first step would be to start calling landowners to discuss conservation.

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A subcommittee has already approved the 20% goal.

Commissioners will meet on Thursday, May 19 to discuss the conservation plan, among other items on the meeting's agenda.