In a landscape shaped by agriculture and forests, 770 acres of working farm and forest land in Harnett County are now permanently conserved. Conserved through a permanent easement in partnership with Three Rivers Land Trust (TRLT), the property will continue to protect productive soils, managed timberland, and natural resources that sustain the county’s rural character and economy.
Driving Highway 109 towards Winston-Salem in Davidson County the evidence of growth and urban sprawl is apparent. Creeping in from every direction, the cities of High Point, Winston-Salem, and Lexington appear to be determined to consume the last remnants of rural land. Situated directly in the middle of this development pressure is the land owned by the Cridlebaugh family. Ms. Cridlebaugh has decided to go against the grain of development by working with Three Rivers Land Trust (TRLT) to permanently conserve an additional 45 acre parcel of their family land.
One Moore County family has partnered with Three Rivers Land Trust to ensure the permanent conservation of their land near Carthage. Now, over 147 acres of forestland will never be paved over or subdivided. Furthermore, this tract of land adjoins over 1,700 acres of previously conserved land, creating almost 2,000 acres of contiguous protected land
After more than five years, the Hedrick family has officially conserved their 65-year-old farm in Davidson County with the help of Three Rivers Land Trust.
With the county experiencing increased growth from the Triad, this project is especially significant in protecting North Carolina’s remaining rural lands.
After more than five years, the Hedrick family has officially conserved their 65-year-old farm in Davidson County with the help of Three Rivers Land Trust.
With the county experiencing increased growth from the Triad, this project is especially significant in protecting North Carolina’s remaining rural lands.
One crisp fall morning, Dr. Michael Baranski looked out over his property and knew he wanted it to remain just as it was now. As a retired ecology professor, Dr. Baranski understands the importance of conservation. So, he and his wife Julia worked with Three Rivers Land Trust to thoughtfully conserve his property from future development.
“I love old forests, natural areas, and undeveloped landscapes. These places are rapidly disappearing due to urban sprawl. I am fortunate to have a piece of undeveloped property, consisting of a significant natural area and some very mature hardwoods. I am choosing to keep the forest intact and all the land undeveloped in perpetuity,” stated Dr. Baranski.
Situated along Fourth Creek, the property consists of old hardwoods and remnant fields. Fourth Creek feeds into the South Yadkin River, the major drinking water source for the residents of Salisbury. In addition to the water quality resources, this woodland boasts over 80% prime or statewide important soils. Many species of wildlife call this well-managed forest home. Conserving this site and its resources will benefit the local community for generations to come.
When Katie Dunlap heard about the Auto Port planned for northwestern Moore County, she knew she had to act. Only a few miles from her rural home, 200 acres are slated for development into condos, garages, a 20,000 square foot clubhouse, a driving track, and more. She reached out to Three Rivers Land Trust and began the process of donating a conservation easement.
On August 21, 2025, Three Rivers Land Trust conserved 87 acres of working farm and forest land in Montgomery and Richmond Counties, adding to the network of nearby conserved lands. These parcels are adjacent to over 350 acres of land previously conserved by TRLT.
Recently, TRLT conserved a 157-acre farm on the Cabarrus-Union County line. This family farm has been permanently conserved with grant funding from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and will now permanently be a part of NC’s agricultural landscape.
On June 9th, 2025 Three Rivers Land Trust (TRLT) protected a 298-acre farm in Robeson County, NC.