North Carolina’s natural places and working farms are an important part of our state’s infrastructure and way of life.
These natural places provide clean water, protect wildlife habitat, support agriculture, and power outdoor recreation economies across our communities. Across the state, investments from the N.C. Land and Water Fund, Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, and Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund help protect the lands and waters that support local economies and quality of life.
- Outdoor recreation generates $16.2 billion in economic value in North Carolina and supports more than 145,000 jobs statewide, representing 2.1% of the state’s GDP. The outdoor recreation economy in North Carolina has grown 9.6% since 2022. (NC Outdoor Economy Office).
- More than 20 million people visit North Carolina State Parks each year, supporting local economies and small businesses in communities across the state (North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation).
- Agriculture and agribusiness remain North Carolina’s top industry, contributing more than $103 billion annually to the state’s economy (NC State Extension).
Conserving land is not just about protecting nature. It is about protecting critical infrastructure, supporting rural economies, and preserving North Carolina’s way of life.
Land for Tomorrow and its members are working to ensure these conservation trust funds remain strong so they can continue delivering benefits to communities across the state.
Strengthening Conservation Trust Funds:
- $2M recurring increase for NCLWF. Currently funded at $28M recurring, a $2M increase would bring total funding to $30M.
- $2M recurring increase for PARTF. Currently funded at $28M recurring, a $2M increase would bring total funding to $30M.
- $20M recurring increase for ADFPTF. Currently funded at $5M recurring, a $20M increase would bring total funding to $25M
Strengthening Conservation Through Policy:
- Extend the Conservation Tax Credit. Reinstated in 2024, the tax credit is currently set to expire at the end of 2026.
- Pass House Bill 647 – Agriculture PUV Conservation
Meet our Land for Tomorrow’s Members who are on the ground protecting our land and water.
Download our 2026 Budget Priorities document
CONTACT US
Kevin Redding
Land for Tomorrow Chair
Executive Director, Piedmont Land Conservancy
Office: (336) 691-0088
kredding@piedmontland.org