The Ecosystem Enhancement Program offers many benefits to landowners interested in protecting and restoring wetlands, streams and riparian areas on their property, and may pay to 100 percent of the costs of restoration.

EEP can also acquire property in agreement with landowners by a fee simple purchase, by donation (for tax credits), or through purchase of a permanent conservation easement.

Mingo Tract in Caldwell County, an example of a voluntary landowner decision to preserve natural areas in North Carolina
(photo by Charlie Jones, NCDOT)

• N.C. income tax credits
• Federal income-tax deductions
• Federal estate-tax deductions
• County tax reductions

(NOTE: Property owners are advised to consult an attorney and a financial advisor/estate planner concerning these programs).

GETTING INVOLVED WITH EEP

If you are a landowner interested in participating with the Ecosystem Enhancement Program on a restoration project, please complete and return an EEP restoration site proposal form.

This form will provide EEP with basic information about the location and characteristics of your site. Based upon the information provided on the completed form, EEP will determine if your site potentially qualifies and is consistent with the goals of the program.

EEP staff may wish to schedule an appointment with you to visit and evaluate the restoration potential of the site.