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MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Allison Woods Foundation is to conserve and enhance unique natural, historical and cultural attributes of Allison Woods and William Locke Allison, Jr. Forest Preserve. The Foundation strives to be an exemplary environmental learning and research center for Statesville, Iredell County and the Piedmont region of the Carolinas. The Allison Woods Foundation was created in 1991 with the purpose of renovating the historic buildings and recreating the landscape of the Twenties. The Foundation's goal is to serve as a source of historic and environmental education for Iredell County and beyond.  Mother & daughter learn about Allison Woods HABITAT INVENTORY The 1,000-acre tract that makes up Allison Woods contains a remarkable diversity of habitats. These include forests, meadows, streams, ponds, and wetlands that are subdivided into a wide variety of microhabitats. As part of its overall conservation and education mission, Allison Woods Foundation staff and volunteers study local habitats. LAND USE Through the generosity and cooperation of the Allison family, the Foundation has access, for our many programs and events, to the lands that make up Allison Woods. The Foundation's mission is to conserve and enchance the rich history, both natural and cultural, of the property. Management of different habitat types--hardwood bottomlands, wetlands, mature mixed hardwood, shortleaf pine stands, and early succession forest--is limited to control of invasive species and removal of trees for safety purposes. Trails have been maintained and/or restored with minimum intrusion and careful attention to vegatative regeneration and wildlife habitats. Only natural materials are used for trail maintenance and restoration. The trail system that covers the entire property is used extensively for environmental studies, observing wildlife, learning about the many roles of water and to just enjoy the natural beauty of Allison Woods.  Daffodils BOY SCOUTS The Foundation relys heavily on volunteers and the Boy Scouts have been instrumental in the resporation and maintenance of the trail system. Several area Scouts have made work at Allison Woods part of their Eagle Scout Project. If your troop is interested in a doing project, please contact us today. |
 Silo In its management of the landscape and gardens at Allison Woods, the Allison Woods Foundation closely follows guidelines and standards established in the Landscape and Garden Master Plan (1999 ) by William Scott White. As such, preservation and restoration of existing building and landscape features will reflect their original intent. The management includes systematic control of invasive species. Original vistas are being reopened. All management of the landscape and gardens at Allison Woods is based on the concept of working with nature. Garden programs for the general public illustrate how to implement these concepts. In 2006, the Water Section of the Department of Environmental Resources (DENR) installed a ground water station. After 350 feet of drilling, DENR Water Quality Staff gained access to the water table to regularily take samples of the water. There are only 6 ground water stations in the state. WATERSHED RESEARCH AND PROTECTION Allison Woods is located in the Yadkin River water basin. The southern end of the property adjoins the South Yadkin River. Several tributaries enter the river from the property. Willow Branch originates at the historic Springhouse constructed in the 1920s by Major William Allison. The diversity of the land allows site visitors to learn about the variations of water quality, stream life and pond life. Every type of buffer zone and its relative integrity can be studied.  Big Mill Circa 1921 WILLIAM LOCKE ALLISON JR. FOREST PRESERVE In 1999, Lowe's Home Improvement Centers donated 108 acres of forest land to The Allison Woods Foundation. The tract is located on the west side of US 21N and adjoins the 1,000-acre Tom Allison family estate where most of the Foundation's education programs are conducted. The William Locke Allison Jr. Forest Preserve represents a typical mix of upper Piedmont mixed hardwoods in various states of re-growth after harvest. A woodland stream on the property joins Turkey Foot Branch, a tributary of the South Yadkin River. The diversity of the land's forest stand and the presence of different types of watercourses offer prime opportunities for multiple education and research activities. In 2006, the Water Section of the Department of Environmental Resources (DENR) installed a ground water station. After 350 feet of drilling, DENR Water Quality Staff gained access to the water table to regularily take samples of the water. There are only 6 ground water stations in the state. A 3 day course is being offered by DENR staff for any teacher. This informative course will give teachers the knowledge and first hand experience to educate their students on one of te biggest challenges facing our time: the protection of our water supply and the importance of water conservation. |