Founded in 2024, we are driven by a mission to protect public lands and champion outdoor recreation as a way of life, safeguarding nature as a vital resource and lifeline for future generations.
Our Values & Vision
The Collective exists to bring together the diverse voices of outdoor recreation to advocate collectively for the protection of Appalachian public lands. We stand with our partners across hiking, biking, climbing, paddling, nature and wildlife conservation, education, and climate action. AOC believes in sustainable development and infrastructure that prolongs natural landscapes, with public lands and the environment a priority.
Protect.
Public Lands
We are driven to advocate for expanding and strengthening protections for Appalachian public lands including: nature preserves, national forests, National and state parks, wildland ecosystems, wildlife habitats, rivers, lakes, urban greenspaces and recreational spaces, ensuring their preservation for present and future generations.
Conserve.
Natural Resources
We are committed to supporting and promoting best conservation practices in adventure tourism and beyond, from rivers and lakes to forests and caves. Additionally, our partners is preservation and rehabilitation efforts of native plant and wildlife species.
Support.
Outdoor Recreation
Our work is dedicated to increasing access to outdoor recreation, identifying barriers that prevent community accessibility to wild spaces, and extending efforts to create educational programming that prepares stewards of tomorrow. We support our partners in hiking, biking, climbing, paddling, horseback riding, and climate science and act as a collective bringing a unified voice to outdoor recreation.
Serve.
The Community
At our core, we are volunteers. We serve the 13 states that make up the Appalachian Region which includes AL, GA, KY, MD, MS, NY, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, and WV. Through educational programming and partnerships, the Collective aims to foster and support and a deep understanding of our natural environment and public lands for tomorrow’s generation of leaders!