We've always known that our neighborhood Fern Park - located between Dahlonega and Dawsonville, Ga. - was unique, but now Southern Living wants its readers to know just how unique Fern Park is.In this month's issue of Southern Living, the developer of Fern Park was recognized for her efforts in turning an old family farm into a conservation subdivision. Dana Lachance received Honorable Mention as a 2012 Southern Living Hero of the New South. Dana, long known for her conservation efforts, was sited for creating "an eco-friendly subdivision, proving development doesn’t have to compromise natural resources and landscape."
Being a woman land developer can't be easy, especially if that developer wants to go green. Dana stood by her conservation conscience, and as a result, Fern Park is a beautiful place to live. The heavily-wooded 28-home subdivision has as its centerpiece, a 25 acre conservation area. Here we have a picnic pavilion, an area set aside for a community garden, and the beginning of winding nature trails through our fern-filled woods.Wild flowers bloom in the park three seasons a year. Children play baseball and soccer or just wander the trails with their dogs. Deer wander in the park at night, and in the summer, a bear sighting or two is not uncommon.
Lumpkin County is filled with great neighborhoods, but none quite like Fern Park. We're delighted that others, including Southern Living, are recognizing the Dana's ecological efforts. Congratulations, Dana LaChance.
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| Fern Park pavilion at entrance of neighborhood. |
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| One of the walking trails in the conservation neighborhood. |
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| Homes have beautifully 'green' landscapes. |
http://www.southernliving.com/travel/1203-heroes-bethea-00417000077371/
