Conservation value is established by the diversity and rarity of plant and animal species and natural communities observed. Because habitat loss is the primary cause for the global decline of biodiversity, conserving rare species\' habitat provides the foundation for recovery. Consequently, the conservation value of Suanlei Preserve was assessed by the diversity of rare species\' habitats present within the 1000 acres. Locations of High Priority Conservation Areas were determined, and sensitive areas will be designated a part of the Sunalei Preserve Conservation Lands.

Sunalei Preserve occurs within the Nationally Significant Amphibolite Mountains Macrosite and is a critical link between the Nationally Significant Long Hope Valley ecological site and the State significant Potato Hill-Rich Mountain Bald ecological site. The Potato Hill, Rich Mountain Bald, Snake Mountain, and Elk Knob complex of sites is considered one of the most extensive, undeveloped examples of high elevation pastoral landscape in the entire Amphibolite Mountains Macrosite.

In order to protect and preserve these ecologically sensitive areas, approximately 330 of Sunalei\'s nearly 1000 acres are now a part of the Blue Ridge Conservancy and Elk Knob State Park.  These 330 acres are now a part of a permanently managed nature preserve and park system and will remain undisturbed and "forever wild."  The summit of Snake Mountain as well as areas that include the head waters of the New River are included in the conserved lands. Owners of property within Sunalei Preserve are welcome to explore these sensitive areas on foot.

Property Summary:

• Five globally imperiled or critically imperiled natural communities
• Numerous aquatic features including Southern Appalachian Bogs and High Elevation Seeps
• At least 219 plant species, including 16 on the NCNHP Rare or Watch Lists
• At least 108 animal species, including 7 on the NCNHP Rare or Watch Lists
• Apparently suitable habitat for 21 animals on the NCNHP Rare of Watch Lists

PDF file showing endangered species lists (328 kb).

Information taken from Biological Inventory for Sunalei Preserve, prepared by Christopher R. Wilson, M.S., July 2002.