North Carolina’s conservation trust funds are doing more than protecting land, they’re delivering real results for our communities, economy, and way of life. We’re grateful to the North Carolina General Assembly for its continued investment in these proven programs.
“Grant funding from the conservation trust funds has enabled us to protect hundreds of acres that we otherwise wouldn’t have been able to conserve,” says Bart Landess, Executive Director of Catawba Lands Conservancy and Carolina Thread Trail. “Land in the Southern Piedmont around Charlotte is increasingly expensive, and it’s only through partnerships and support from the trust funds that we have been able to exceed 18,000 acres conserved.”
That impact is showing up across the state. In Catawba County, what was once a complex land transaction is now Mountain Creek Park, a growing community asset with trails for hiking, running, and mountain biking. Projects like this strengthen local economies, expand outdoor recreation, and improve quality of life.
As North Carolina continues to grow, the need to protect working lands and natural resources is only increasing.
“North Carolina is a state with incredible natural resources and a rich agricultural legacy,” Landess adds. “As rapid growth and development take place, it’s important to preserve our unique landscapes and agricultural lands before they disappear. The trust funds are a critical tool to ensure these places continue to exist.”
Behind this success is strong leadership and coordination.
“Land for Tomorrow provides critical leadership on state policy relating to land protection,” Landess says. “Without that leadership pushing for funding, we wouldn’t have seen the same level of success in conservation and agricultural projects.”
As budget discussions move forward, it’s critical to protect funding for the state’s conservation trust funds so they can continue delivering results for communities across North Carolina. Supporting the conservation trust funds is a smart, practical investment in our state’s future.
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