Acres: 1,214 Acquisition date: 1/7/05 The conservation easement on nearly six miles of stream and more than 1,000 acres of wetlands on this tract protects the nationally significant aquatic habitat in Drowning Creek, which is also designated a high-quality, Outstanding Resource Water.

State gamelands adjoin the tract. The creek contains two rare fish and other uncommon species, and flows into the Southern Pines water supply intake a few miles downstream. The acquisition extinguished sand mining rights that had been purchased by a local company on portions of the property.

EEP’s preservation efforts result from a partnership with the N.C. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. NCDOT is a major contributor of funding on this project.

Main Story Listing