Agriculture is Macon County’s third largest industry. The county’s 346 farms generate $8.8 million annually through farming, forestry, and horticulture. Agriculture is a vital economic engine to Macon County and it helps the county hold fast to its unique rural character and farming heritage.

The Macon County Voluntary Ag District (VAD) Board or some know it as Farmland Preservation Board is comprised of local farmers dedicated to making the agricultural voice of Macon County energized as one voice.

The Land Trust for the Little Tennessee (LTLT) presented Land Conservationist of the Year and Volunteer of the Year Awards during LTLT's annual Fall Celebration on Nov. 3.

John Gladden received the 2012 Volunteer of the Year Award. Gladden has been active in LTLT’s aquatic biomonitoring and land stewardship programs and has also assisted with youth education activities.

Gladden lives with his wife, Sandy, in southern Macon County.

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After recognizing the economic impact the Appalachian Trail has on the Franklin community, David and Bonnie Pickartz with Goshen Timber Frames donated a trail shelter on the Long Branch portion of the trail in Macon County.

Earlier this month, community volunteers and members of the Nantahala Hiking Club joined together to erect the timber frame skeleton and begin the work on the shelter, which is anticipated to be finished by the end of the year.

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One of the most unique leaf-looking experiences in the United States will soon be lumbering into view.

The “Shadow of the Bear,” located in southern Jackson County near Cashiers, is visible for about 30 minutes daily between 5:30 and 6 p.m. from mid-October through early November.

During this period, the bear-like shadow comes out of hibernation as the autumnal sun sets behind Whiteside Mountain.