--- title: Why Conservation Matters during North Carolina’s Rapid Growth Phase | Unique Places to Save description: Discover why conservation is more important than ever for North Carolina's natural resources & the threats they face during the state's rapid growth phase image: https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/conservation%20matters%20north%20carolina%20rapid%20growth%20phase.jpg --- [![Unique Places to Save logo](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hs-fs/hubfs/logo%20horizontal-1.png?width=1254&height=380&name=logo%20horizontal-1.png "Unique Places to Save logo")](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/) - [PROJECTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/projects) - SERVICES - [FOR MITIGATION BANKERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-mitigation) - [FOR LAND MANAGERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/land-planners-managers) - [FOR LANDOWNERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-for-landowners) - [FOR RESTORATION PARTNERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/dam-removals) - ABOUT - [OUR GOALS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/our-goals) - [OUR VALUES](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/our-values) - [OUR TEAM](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/team) - [CONTACT US](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/contact) - UPDATES - [CONSERVATION EASEMENTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-easements) - [MITIGATION BANKING](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/mitigation-banking) - [WORKING LANDS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/working-lands) - [RIVERS, WETLANDS & DAMS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/rivers-wetlands-dams) - [CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-and-development) - [CONSERVATION STORIES](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-stories) - [ORGANIZATION NEWS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/organization-news) - [ALL POSTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news) [Donate](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/wetland-keepers) [Donate](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/wetland-keepers) This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. ![Glass office towers seen from street level, with trees and a bronze statue below.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/conservation%20matters%20north%20carolina%20rapid%20growth%20phase.jpg) # Why Conservation Matters during North Carolina’s Rapid Growth Phase Michael Scisco - February 2024 ![](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/raw_assets/public/unique-places-theme/images/sep-1-0.png) North Carolina has abundant natural resources that contribute significantly to the state's economy, environment, and overall quality of life. Our state's landscapes provide many opportunities for outdoor recreation, improved water quality, farming, tourism, and forestry. However, as the state experiences rapid growth and development, the need for land and resource conservation has become more urgent. This is because population growth and land development often result in conversion of valuable land and natural resources. The growth rate of NC from July 2022 to July 2023 was 1.3% or 139,526 people, which is the fifth fastest growth rate in the country. Total population for North Carolina is currently 10.8 million people. ##### **The Natural Resources of North Carolina: What’s At Stake?** North Carolina has magnificent natural land, water, and wildlife resources. The state has 31.5 million acres, 87 percent of which are natural and working lands. These measure about 20.5 million acres, including unmanaged and managed forests, wetlands, and grasslands. It also boasts over 12,000 miles of estuary beaches, 35,000 rivers and streams, and almost 1,500 lakes. This also makes our state abundant in water resources, helping us in many ways including providing drinking water and recreational activities. The health and productivity of North Carolina's natural landscapes help humans and wildlife beyond economic value. For instance, [wetlands](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/american-wetlands-report-2019) are vital to water supply. They filter and purify water for municipalities, ensuring clean and reliable water.  The state also includes a wide variety of environments and species, making it a biodiversity hotspot. It is estimated that we have about 200 endemic species, meaning that we have a couple hundred species that can't be found anywhere else in the world. These unique species and habitats offer many research, educational, and recreational opportunities. ##### **How North Carolina’s growth threatens our natural wealth** As the fifth fastest-growing state in 2023, North Carolina’s beautiful resources are now at stake. The state’s natural resources are constantly facing threats from land development and rapid population growth. Resources for land conservation are not keeping up. In fact, the state recorded another 1 million residents in the past decade, and the pace is still growing. This also means an increase in infrastructure to accommodate the needs of the growing population. Hence, this puts many of North Carolina’s forests, farms, and natural lands at risk of permanent degradation or loss. The projected [loss of farmland](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/securing-food-supply-preserving-local-farmland) in NC by 2040 is expected to be 1,197,300 acres or just about the same size as the state of Delaware. Farmland is at increased risk of conversion to other uses to support the increase population growth of NC. Recent projections say that more than 2 million acres will be developed in the next 30 years. This shows how quickly land is being developed in North Carolina. The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation also determined that over $310 million will be required to place 134,000 acres of new lands into conservation. Despite the ongoing loss of our natural resources, many North Carolinians still love outdoor recreation. Amidst the challenges brought by the pandemic, state parks saw a record-breaking 19.7 million visitors in 2020. Furthermore, outdoor recreation generates a staggering amount of $28 billion in consumer spending and supports 260,000 jobs. Our natural landscapes provide many outdoor recreational activities. The mountains continuously attract visitors, thanks to their breathtaking views and ample hiking trails. Meanwhile, the state’s pristine beaches offer a haven for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. These natural wonders call for an investment in conservation more than ever. This is to ensure these landscapes will last for future generations, making it possible to have access to the natural wealth of North Carolina continuously. ##### **Why is conservation considered an investment in the future?** The future of North Carolina's natural and cultural resources depends on effective conservation. As the state develops, we must recognize the importance of investing in conservation. This provides long-term sustainability, encompassing economic, environmental, and societal dimensions. The urgency of conservation action cannot be overstated. Rapid growth across the state threatens more natural lands, farms, and cultural sites each year. If developed, these lands will lose their invaluable benefits forever. Furthermore, the impacts of climate change, such as increased flooding, rising temperatures, and altered precipitation patterns, can’t now be overlooked. By investing in conservation, North Carolina can take proactive measures to mitigate the effects of climate change, reducing the risk of disasters and protecting both people and nature. Conservation is more than preserving the status quo; it builds future resilience. Protecting and restoring our rich resources can help North Carolina adapt to environmental changes and harsh disasters. Among other benefits, we can prevent flooding, improve water quality, and preserve our unique wildlife. Moreover, conservation efforts contribute to the state's long-term economic prosperity. By preserving natural landscapes, North Carolina can continue to attract tourists, generate revenue from outdoor recreation, and support local businesses. It also provides an opportunity to strengthen national defense by conserving the land near military bases. Conservation is one way of helping private landowners conserve important places that are under threat of conversion to other uses. Often, land conservation acts as de facto zoning in areas where ecological and agricultural lands are threatened but have no zoning or other protections. ##### **Building Together: Partnerships for Lasting Conservation** Addressing the conservation challenges faced by North Carolina requires a collective effort. Each stakeholder has a role in protecting and preserving the state's natural and cultural wealth. [Private landowners](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-for-landowners) have an opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts. Various programs and incentives are available to support conservation initiatives, such as [conservation easements](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/conservation-easement-introduction). Furthermore, it’s possible to reduce the environmental impact and also improve sustainability by integrating conservation into development projects. Collaboration is key to achieving lasting conservation outcomes. Partnerships between landowners, developers, and government agencies can use resources, experience, and local knowledge to achieve comprehensive conservation initiatives. ##### **Conclusion** The time to invest in conservation is now. The rapid growth and development in North Carolina poses a significant challenge to the state's natural and cultural resources. By taking action today, we can ensure that future generations will have access to local parks and preserves, public lands for hunting and fishing, reduced flood risks, enhanced military readiness, and a thriving outdoor economy. Conservation is not merely a choice; it is a responsibility we all share to safeguard our natural heritage and secure a sustainable future for North Carolina!   About the Author![Michael Scisco](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hs-fs/hubfs/michael%20scisco.jpg?width=208&height=208&name=michael%20scisco.jpg) Michael brings nearly 20 years of experience to his role as Conservation Director at Unique Places to Save. He has worked to conserve over 200,000 acres across the U.S. while securing over $200M in funding and transacting $500M in land and other real estate. [Learn More](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/michael-scisco-conservation-expert) #### We are a trusted partner for private landowners to integrate conservation into their land and estate planning efforts   [Learn More](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/land-planners-managers) ![A slow stream winds through an open wetland meadow lined with cattails and shrubs, with a band of trees on the horizon under a golden evening sky.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/image%20of%20wetlands%20conservation.jpg) [Unique Places to Save](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/unique-places-to-save), [Land Conservation](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/land-conservation), [Conservation & Development](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-and-development) Michael Scisco, September 2026 ### [What Happens After a Mitigation Bank is Complete?](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/mitigation-bank-long-term-management) Regulatory closeout is a major milestone for a mitigation bank. It confirms that the required restoration or enhancement work has been completed, performance standards have been met, and the formal monitoring and maintenance period can end.... ![Pink survey flagging tied to shrubs along a marsh-lined creek on the Point Farm conservation easement, with a weathered stump standing in the still water.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/point%20farm%20conservation%20mitigation%20easement.jpg) [Unique Places to Save](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/unique-places-to-save), [Land Conservation](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/land-conservation), [Conservation & Development](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-and-development) Mandi Taylor, September 2026 ### [The Impossibility of Capturing Nature in a PDF](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/baseline-documentation-report) Every profession has the gap between what the job looks like on paper and what actually happens on the ground. In land conservation, that divide can be neatly summarized by one specific, legal document: the Baseline Documentation Report (BD... ![Mandi Taylor smiling beside a tree in bare winter woods, wearing a cap and a daypack, with pine needles covering the slope behind her.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/mandi%20in%20the%20field.jpg) [Unique Places to Save](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/unique-places-to-save), [Land Conservation](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/land-conservation), [Conservation & Development](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-and-development) Mandi Taylor, September 2026 ### [Behind the Scenes of Land Stewardship](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/what-does-a-land-steward-do) When people think of land conservation wins, they usually picture all the work and coordination required to place land with rich ecological, historical, or cultural value into a conservation easement. And they are right to celebrate those e... ![A shallow rocky river running through summer woodland.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/photo%20of%20ramseur%20deep%20river.jpg) [Unique Places to Save](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/unique-places-to-save), [Land Conservation](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/land-conservation), [Conservation & Development](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-and-development) Sam Warnock, August 2026 ### [The River That Built a Town: Ramseur’s Past Shapes Future Conservation (Part Two)](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/the-river-that-built-a-town-ramseurs-past-shapes-future-conservation-part-two) This is the second installment in a two-part series on the Deep River restoration project in Ramseur, North Carolina. For this series, I sat down with Mayor Hampton Spivey and Town Clerk Carol Akers to hear how growing up alongside the Deep... [![](https://widgets.guidestar.org/prod/v1/pdp/transparency-seal/9341350/svg)](https://app.candid.org/profile/9341350/unique-places-to-save-46-2076094/?pkId=e9b6f29d-825a-42e5-88cd-e7520d3fe801) [Brand Guidelines](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/brand)   |  [Contact](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/contact)   |   [Donate](https://giving.uniqueplacestosave.org/page/donate) [Privacy Policy](https://app.termly.io/policy-viewer/policy.html?policyUUID=9caa4f9b-7b49-4288-a4b5-5c45abbe3ab8)  | [Terms & Conditions](https://app.termly.io/policy-viewer/policy.html?policyUUID=3d5e9999-168e-4629-86bc-82c671729312) | Cookie Consent © Unique Places to Save [Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniqueplaces2save/) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/uniqueplacestosave) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Michael Scisco", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/author/michael-scisco" }, "dateModified" : "2024-08-06T13:08:42.151Z", "datePublished" : "2024-02-07T16:23:44.000Z", "headline" : "Why Conservation Matters during North Carolina’s Rapid Growth Phase", "image" : [ "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/conservation%20matters%20north%20carolina%20rapid%20growth%20phase.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/conservation-matters-north-carolina-rapid-growth", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/logo%20horizontal-1.png" }, "name" : "Unique Places to Save" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/#org", "@type" : "NGO", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Sanford", "addressRegion" : "NC", "postalCode" : "27330", "streetAddress" : "500 Westover Drive #33037" }, "alternateName" : "UP2S", "areaServed" : "United States", "description" : "Unique Places to Save restores and conserves natural and working lands and aquatic resources through conservation protections and sustainable natural resource restoration and management.", "email" : "info@uniqueplacestosave.org", "foundingDate" : "2014", "logo" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/unique%20places%20to%20save%20non%20profit%20land%20trust.png", "name" : "Unique Places to Save", "nonprofitStatus" : "Nonprofit501c3", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniqueplaces2save/", "https://www.facebook.com/uniqueplacestosave", "https://landtrustalliance.org/land-trusts/explore/unique-places-to-save-nc", "https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/462076094", "https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/462076094", "https://www.guidestar.org/profile/46-2076094", "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q140773865" ], "taxID" : "46-2076094", "telephone" : "919-428-2040", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/conservation-matters-north-carolina-rapid-growth#article", "@type" : "Article", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Michael Scisco", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/author/michael-scisco" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-07", "datePublished" : "2024-02-07", "headline" : "Why Conservation Matters during North Carolina’s Rapid Growth Phase", "image" : "https://43952016.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/43952016/conservation%20matters%20north%20carolina%20rapid%20growth%20phase.jpg", "publisher" : { "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/#org" }, "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/conservation-matters-north-carolina-rapid-growth" } ```