About the Collaborative
Empowering Communities, Conserving Landscapes, Building Resilience
The Appalachian Trail Community Conservation Collaborative (ATCCC) is a new initiative led by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) that amplifies local voices and supports community-led conservation efforts while strengthening economies and sense of place in Pennsylvanian communities.
Building on a century of trusted partnerships and programs like the A.T. Community Program and South Mountain Partnership, the Collaborative brings together diverse community leaders – from conservation and agriculture to tourism, government, and the humanities – to co-create solutions that address community needs, protect natural resources, support outdoor recreation economies, and sustain the Appalachian Trail Landscape for future generations.
The Collaborative represents a diverse collection of towns, small cities, townships, and boroughs, anchored by the Appalachian Trail and the gateways to many of Pennsylvania’s unique places. We partner with communities across the Appalachian Trail Landscape, including trailside and designated A.T. Communities, to help preserve the natural and cultural treasures of this unique corridor – ensuring this iconic landscape thrives for generations to come.
Meet the 2026 Cohort
Following a competitive application process, seven community teams have been selected to participate in the inaugural ATCCC.
Meet the Teams
Julia Chain
A Community-Driven Project for Conservation & Engagement
Our mission is to empower local leaders by providing access to essential planning tools, technical assistance, funding resources, and dynamic networks for peer learning.
Together, we work to sustain the A.T. as a living corridor rich with biodiversity, clean water, scenic beauty, and vibrant local history—while fostering economic vitality and climate resilience.
Why Community Involvement Matters
Many communities are eager to balance economic growth with conservation and stewardship goals, and some may be interested in exploring how to expand into the outdoor recreation economy.
The Appalachian Trail is much more than a footpath; it is a source of pride and connection; an opportunity for the communities to become partners in stewardship of what makes this landscape unique.
By centering the voices and leadership of those who live near the Trail, the Collaborative ensures conservation efforts are locally driven, inclusive, and sustainable. We are committed to building partnerships and advancing solutions that reflect unique community values and priorities.
How We Support Communities
Technical Assistance & Training
Expert and customized guidance to help communities plan, fund, and launch conservation projects tailored to their needs.
Planning & Data Tools
Access to leading-edge GIS planning tools like ATLAS IT and the Appalachian Trail Visual Resource Inventory.
Funding Navigation
Support to secure public and private funds for community projects.
Peer to Peer Learning and Networking
Connection with a statewide network of community leaders, partners, and experts for shared learning and innovation.
Visibility & Recognition
Opportunities to showcase conservation achievements regionally and nationally through ATC’s landscape conservation partnerships.
The A.T. Landscape
The ATCCC is an open invitation to communities within or partially within the Appalachian Trail Landscape in Pennsylvania to form community teams and apply.
The Collaborative will help you to build community-led conservation projects and action plans and will provide customized technical support and peer exchange, and more – see all of the benefits in the General Information for Communities & Partners. Check out the ATCCC Boundary Map linked below to see if your community is in the A.T. Landscape (within the black line).
ATCCC Boundary Map
Together, we can ensure that the Appalachian Trail’s landscapes—and the communities that care for them—continue to prosper and inspire, now and into the future.
This project is generously supported by the Richard King Mellon Foundation.
Sign up for periodic emails about ATCCC important dates and events.
