At Pisgah Banjos, we believe in crafting instruments that don’t just take from the earth but give back to it. Wood is the heart of our banjos—the very essence of their tone, beauty, and soul. But as makers, we recognize that every tree used is part of a larger ecosystem, one that has suffered greatly from deforestation, mountaintop removal, and environmental degradation. That’s why sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us—it’s a guiding principle. And it’s why we’ve partnered with Green Forests Work (GFW) to help restore the forests of Appalachia, ensuring that we give back far more than we take.
A Mission Rooted in Sustainability
Pisgah Banjos was founded on a deep respect for traditional craftsmanship, Appalachian culture, and the natural resources that make our instruments possible. From the beginning, we have prioritized sustainability—using only native hardwoods, reclaiming materials whenever possible, and minimizing waste in our workshop. But we know that true sustainability means more than just responsible sourcing; it means actively working to restore and protect the very forests that provide us with the materials we cherish.
That’s where Green Forests Work comes in. This incredible organization is on a mission to reclaim the landscapes of Appalachia, particularly those ravaged by mountaintop removal mining. By planting native trees and restoring biodiversity, they are healing the scars left behind and bringing life back to the land.
Healing the Land, One Tree at a Time
Mountaintop removal has destroyed over 1.5 million acres of forest in the Appalachian region, stripping away topsoil and compacting the ground so severely that natural regrowth is nearly impossible. Green Forests Work is changing that—one tree at a time. Since 2009, they have planted nearly 7 million trees, reforesting over 11,000 acres of damaged land.
Pisgah Banjos is proud to be part of this movement. For every banjo we craft, we donate enough to plant two trees through GFW. Additionally, our customers can directly contribute by adding a $3 donation to their order, planting even more trees in Appalachia. So far, Pisgah Banjos has helped plant 4,428 trees—and we’re just getting started.
More Than Just Planting Trees
The impact of reforestation goes far beyond aesthetics. Restoring these forests:
- Protects Waterways – Healthy forests filter water and prevent soil erosion, improving the quality of streams and rivers.
- Rebuilds Ecosystems – Native trees create habitats for countless species, bringing balance back to the environment.
- Fights Climate Change – Trees are one of nature’s most powerful tools for absorbing carbon and combatting global warming.
- Honors Appalachia’s Legacy – These forests are the backdrop of Appalachian music, culture, and history. Restoring them ensures that future generations can continue to find inspiration in their beauty.
Giving More Than We Take
At Pisgah Banjos, we recognize that as builders, we are borrowing from the natural world. But we refuse to be part of a system that only takes—we want to be part of one that gives back. Our partnership with Green Forests Work allows us to not only offset the wood we use but to actively restore and improve the land we love.
When you choose a Pisgah Banjo, you’re not just investing in a finely crafted instrument—you’re investing in the future of Appalachia. Together, we can make sure that the forests that shaped this music will continue to stand tall for generations to come.
Because when it comes to the land, the music, and the traditions we hold dear, we believe in giving back more than we take.
