March 19, 2006

Julia Wallace, Managing Editor
Atlanta Journal Constitution
Box 4689
Atlanta, Georgia 30302

Dear Ms. Wallace:

I hope that my letter and the enclosed information will persuade you to do a series of articles on the current risks of buying mountain slope resort property in Western North Carolina. While North Carolina geologists are busy mapping counties prone to landslides, dozens of slope side resort communities are underway in vulnerable mountain settings.

All of the county governments in the western part of the state are being courted by wealthy, influential developers who promise jobs and an increased tax base. Most of the county boards are not addressing the critical issues of slope stability, density, and water resources when granting the petition for mountain development.

Buyers of mountain property are not aware of the hazards of living on a sheared mountain slope. There are personal and financial risks. In September 2004 and in July 2005 the state issued landslide advisories in Western North Carolina. The advisories became a reality and there was loss of life and serious damage due to flooding and landslides. Mountain development is a contributing factor to these events.

Owners and buyers of mountain property should know that homeowner policies will not cover damage caused by earth movement and ground water flooding. To protect your home you must buy landslide insurance. There is no coverage for the loss of land. Landslide insurance is expensive and difficult to buy. Protection against ground water flooding must be purchased through FEMA.

There are beautiful views and many promises on the glossy resort mountain brochures. Buyers of mountain dream homes should ask the limited liability developer for a copy of the geologic hazard map for the construction site. Inquire about water resources for the planned development. Many of these resorts are in rural areas and water is sustained by wells.

The unbiased landslide risk profile provided by North Carolina geologists is frank and irrefutable. Buyers of mountain property should be concerned that there is no comprehensive governmental program to protect their interests.

Sincerely,

Lynne Vogel