About us

Appalachian Conservation Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that protects nearly 11,000 acres in Tennessee’s Little Sequatchie Cove.

our why

Conservation close to home

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, Tennessee’s Little Sequatchie Cove is a natural sanctuary for us all. ACI is committed to preserving the cove for generations to come.

Our mission

To serve as a leading example of conservation philanthropy through proactive land protection, restoration, and scientific education.

Our vision

We envision a future of protected lands, thriving biologically—where aspiring conservationists are allowed to explore, untrammeled.

OUR PEOPLE

Meet the team

Rick Huffines, Executive Director

Quentin Miller, Associate Director

Billy Nunley, Facilities Manager

Brylee Nunley, Construction and Equipment Operator

Willie Elliedge, Equipment Operator

Cory Gurman, Land Companion

Darrin Nunley, Equipment Operator

Hannah Shadrick Hummel, Digital Ranger

Michael + Karmin Pace, Founders

Protect the land’s limits™

At ACI, we commit to listening to the land and providing what it needs, whether that’s rest, prescribed fire, native species restoration, or another ecological intervention.

history

Our beginnings

In 2023, the Pace family faced a tough reality: Chattanooga, Tennessee and the surrounding areas were under increasing development pressure. The rich wildlife, stunning vistas, and outdoor recreation that define Chattanooga were at risk of disappearing.

That’s when they began acquiring land in Little Sequatchie Cove. Why this cove? It’s uncommon to find large, contiguous tracts of undeveloped land—let alone ones that hold the cultural, ecological, and recreational value that this cove does.

To date, the Pace family has been able to purchase over 10,000 acres that will be protected forever. Under the guidance of seasoned Executive Director Rick Huffines, this acreage will now be managed by the Appalachian Conservation Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to ensure these lands are thriving for future generations.

natural habitats

Key ecosystems

Little Sequatchie Cove is an abundant landscape, known for its caves, rivers, and rock escarpments. Each ecological community hosts specific plants and animals that rely on the health of the land to survive.

Pine oak savanna

Riparian habitat

Cave karst

Mountain bogs

Native grasslands

Cove forest

How to reach us

Mailing address

P.O. Box 1239, Tracy City, TN 37387

Email

info@appalachianconservation.org

Stay up to date

Get email updates about our conservation work in the Little Sequatchie Cove. We’ll share news on our research, volunteer opportunities, permits, and more.