By Michele Lerner

Nature can be messy. An unmown meadow, a forest full of undergrowth or a black bear meandering a little too close to your back yard can cause consternation among you and your neighbors even if you relish the abundance of open space in your community. In communities such as Willowsford in Northern Virginia, Balsam Mountain Preserve in North Carolina and Serenbe outside Atlanta that do get up close and personal with nature, conservation experts are working closely with residents to manage expectations, are providing education about nature and are maintaining stewardship over the land.