Lynch Observatory

The Bert and Janette Lynch Memorial Observatory began in 2015 with the purchase of a parcel at the northern boundary of the 1500-acre Buford Mountain Conservation Area.  In 2016, two observing pads were installed to host observing events.  A roll-off roof “observashed” was added in 2018 to enclose a permanently mounted telescope. 

The fields around the site were restored to a more natural condition by removing invasive species and controlled burns.  Over 120 trees were planted, including native Shortleaf Pine, River Birch, Bald Cypress, Service Berry and Norwegian Spruce.  The site produces large amounts of blackberries and persimmon fruit.  Coyotes, fox, deer, turkey, beaver, snakes and a wide variety of other creatures live around the site or travel through from the conservation area.  It is a site that Bert and Janette would have enjoyed.

In 2024, the 1950s era hunting cabin was replaced with a modern version, thanks to the help of family and friends.  More than 100 visitors have brought telescopes to take advantage of the dark, clear skies.