HARPERS FERRY, W.Va. – The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) joins the world in mourning the passing — and celebrating the life — of President Jimmy Carter. Beyond the countless humanitarian and philanthropic endeavors President Carter undertook in his lifetime, his presidency resulted in one of the most significant expansions in Appalachian Trail (A.T.) protection in the past 50 years. 

“To this day, the leadership and support of President Carter echoes in every step taken on the Appalachian Trail,” said Sandra Marra, President & CEO of the ATC. “His Administration recognized the value of public lands like the A.T. for the American people, and the importance of supporting the advocates and volunteers keeping the Trail maintained and protected every year. To say that the Trail has lost one of its champions is an understatement. President Carter’s legacy will be carried on the A.T., from Maine to Georgia, for centuries to come.” 

In 1978, President Carter signed into law H.R. 8803, “An Act to amend the National Trails System Act” — a piece of legislation known affectionately throughout Congress as the “Appalachian Trail Bill.” Through its passage, the Department of the Interior was given the tools to fortify the integrity of the A.T. This included: 

• The funding and direction to acquire the necessary lands to provide a protective corridor for the Trail. 

• The development of a comprehensive plan for “the management, acquisition, development, and use” of the A.T. — a plan still followed to this day. 

• Directing the ATC to coordinate the on-the-ground land protection by the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service and to report to Congress on them. 

When President Carter signed the Appalachian Trail Bill, he underlined the importance of this bill to the A.T., saying it “means that the federal government can now work more effectively with the states and citizens to provide the protection necessary to preserve — and ultimately enhance — this important part of our American heritage.” 

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy expresses its sincere condolences to the family and friends of President Carter, and we thank him for his dedication to the United States and its public lands, helping ensure that we might all enjoy a closer walk with nature. 

To learn more about the A.T. Bill of 1978, visit appalachiantrail.org/ATbill1978. 

About the Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Founded in 1925, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy works passionately to manage and protect the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. As the only non-profit devoted exclusively to the entirety of the Trail and its landscape, we endeavor to keep its vast natural and scenic beauty healthy, resilient, and connected, so that everyone can experience its transformative power for generations to come. Together with our supporters, partners, and thousands of volunteers, we keep the Trail alive.

Media Contact:
Ann Simonelli, 304.885.0482‌, asimonelli@appalachiantrail.org