FAQ
What does “Save These Mountains” mean?
In August of 2005, developers purchased and submitted a plan for building a large scale residential community on the north side of Cove Mountain. The plan called for approximately 14 miles of roads and 700+lots. Many of the citizens of Wears Valley felt that this kind of use would wreak untold environmental, economic and cultural damage upon the community.
The developers have repeatedly presented their plans for a scaled-down development of the mountain to the Sevier County Planning Commission. As it stands, the commissioners have not approved their building plan. The mountain presents some tough issues including topography, soil structure, storm water run-off, etc. However, it is our understanding that the devlopers are still pursuing their plans and at some time in the future will be presentening these plans again to the Planning Comission for approval. The Friends of Wears Valley have repeatedly asked the commissioners to carefully weigh the development against the environment, economil and cultural strains that it would place upon the community.
The Friends of Wears Valley promotes the preservation of Cove Mountain from any development. Cove Mountain dominates the landscape and frames the entire valley. It is one of the few mountains left in Sevier County that still appears as it did for the original settlers of Wears Valley. The beauty of the mountains is unsurpassed. We feel strongly that the preservation of this mountain in pristine condition is vital to the economic future of the entire community.
“Save the Mountains” soon became a message for the whole of Sevier County. It became a cry to reassess the values we hold dear- a plea for all to pause and reflect on the consequences of our development actions.
Example of development the Friends of Wears Valley oppose
What can be done to save Cove Mountain?
Recently, a group of conservancies proposed purchasing the entire land parcel of 900+ acres. If the owners/developers are willing to sell the property to the conservancies, the conservancies would turn it over to the Smoky Mountain National Park for all to enjoy. We urge everyone to write or call local and state officials to show your support to assist in the purchase of the land.
Who are the Friends of Wears Valley?
The plight of Cove Mountain became the catalyst for the formation of the Friends of Wears Valley (FOWV), a not-for-profit group begun in 2005 by the residents of Wears Valley. FOWV is also a citizen’s group for promoting the principles of “Smart Growth”. Public meetings are held at the Wears Valley fire station where progress and ideas are discussed amongst attendees. A leadership committee made up of volunteers conducts the meetings and works with all residents of the valley towards the goals of responsible planning and supporting the purchase of Cove Mountain by the conservancies.
We invite all to join with us who support the goal of preserving the mountain heritage of this place we love.
FOWV is also aware that the are public safety issues including, but not limited to:
- construction on steep terrain
- flooding, pollution of wells and streams
- fire safety and emergency access
- liability issues with regards to the overnight rental industry
Where can I get more information about these issues?
More information can be found at Friends of Wears Valley Yahoo! Group or at As The Valley Turns, a website created by a resident of the Valley.
There have been numerous articles written about Cove Mountain as well as editorials and letters to the editor in both The Knoxville Sentinal and The Mountain Press .
Greg Johnson is a freelance writer and has numerous articles published in both newspapers. He also writes for the Cove Mountain Compromise blog.
Abe Whaley is another freelance writer who grew up in Sevier County and has written articles that have been published in newspapers and in Newsweek magazine. You can reach him at abewhaley@att.net
If you don’t have access to the internet, you can check with neighbors or contact members of the leadership committee at (865) 300-8055 for information.
What can I do to help?
The following are a variety of ways you can help:
- Purchase “Save These Mountains” T-shirts, signs and car stickers by calling (865) 300-8055
- Attend Meetings of the Planning Commission at the Court House in Sevierville to show your support of FOWV and “Smart Growth”. Meeting dates and times are published in The Mountain Press. You can also call (865) 300-8055 to be placed on our calling list to be kept iformed by phone for dates and times.
- Write or call local and state officials to let them know of your concern of over-development and your desire to save Cove Mountain in Wears Valley. Call the FOWV phone number at (865) 300-8055 to request a listing.
- FOWV needs your comments and suggestions. What do you see as the future of Wears Valley? What development is appropriate?
- Please send a monetary donation to the Friends of Wears Valley “Save These Mountains” fund to help show your commitment to our cause and defray costs associated with our efforts. Donate online using Google Checkout or checks can be made out and mailed to:
Friends of Wears Valley or FOWV
PO Box 1625
Pigeon Forge, TN 37868
Thank you for your support.