About
THE CHATTAHOOCHEE HILL COUNTRY CONSERVANCY
The Chattahoochee Hill Country Conservancy (CHCC) is dedicated to protecting and activating the natural and cultural resources of Chattahoochee Hill Country. We aim to preserve scenic vistas, wildlife habitats, farmlands, and historic sites while fostering sustainable land management practices. Through strategic land protection, conservation easements, community engagement, educational programs, and agritourism, our mission is to ensure that this unique region remains a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come.
Mission
To protect and activate the natural, cultural and agricultural resources of Chattahoochee Hill Country, fostering a vibrant community through conservation, stewardship, education, and collaboration.
Vision
To create a thriving, resilient Chattahoochee Hill Country where natural beauty, agriculture, and community well-being are preserved, enhanced, and celebrated for generations to come.
Our Program Areas
Resource Protection
Committed to preserving Chattahoochee Hills' unique landscapes, including farmlands, historic sites, and scenic parks & trails, while raising awareness about the importance of protecting our community resources.
Resource Activation
Brings the community together to appreciate the natural beauty and resources of Chattahoochee Hills through engaging events and educational activities that raise awareness and highlight the economic, agricultural and recreational benefits of conservation.
Food System Development
Aims to create a sustainable food system by setting clear goals, supporting local farmers, educating the public, improving food access, and developing supportive food production infrastructure.
Land Stewardship
Promotes sustainable land management, agricultural best practices, and habitat restoration through educational initiatives for landowners, while also implementing strategies to protect the community from the impacts of climate change.
History Of The CHCC
The Chattahoochee Hill Country Conservancy has its roots in community-led efforts to protect the rural character and natural landscapes of Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia.
2000-2001
Early Beginnings
Local landowners and residents began organizing to control sprawl development, recognizing the need for sustainable growth. This led to the formation of the Chattahoochee Hill Country Alliance (CHCA), which hosted public meetings to inform the aspirational development of a balanced growth plan for the region
2002-2004
Planning & Conservation Initiatives
The Alliance secured major grants and successfully developed and implemented a Land Use Plan, which was adopted by Fulton County. This period saw the legal incorporation of the Conservancy as a nonprofit charitable organization and the beginning of cooperative efforts across multiple counties. Notably, in 2004, the first Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) Program was launched by the City, with the goal of helping protect and preserve the rural character and farmland in the City while encouraging denser growth in hamlets and villages.
2005-2007
Cityhood & Landmark Achievements
The Conservancy’s efforts helped establish the City of Chattahoochee Hill Country (later renamed Chattahoochee Hills) which was incorporated in 2007, with strong public support. Meanwhile, Serenbe, the first mixed-use development under the CHC Land Use Plan, broke ground as a national smart growth model. The Conservancy also completed Georgia’s first TDR transaction.
2024 +
Present & Future
Today, the Chattahoochee Hill Country Conservancy continues its mission to preserve farmland, open spaces, and the rural character of Chatt Hills. It supports local farmers, conservation efforts, and sustainable development through community engagement, advocacy, and strategic land-use planning.