Richard and Mitzie Almond permanently conserved their 54-acre farm on the edge of Albemarle in Stanly County on Dec. 31, 2018.

The Almonds grow blueberries and row crops and wanted to ensure that this place would remain a farm for future generations.

As the name of the farm implies, this farm is located along Mountain Creek. Mountain Creek is a scenic stream, with high water quality. In addition, there are several species of rare mussel that call that creek home.

In 2018, Three Rivers Land Trust conserved an additional 45-acre parcel along Mountain Creek that was transferred to Morrow Mountain State Park.

“We are always excited to work with conservation minded land owners,” Executive Director Travis Morehead said. “With the addition of this easement, we have conserved nearly 300 acres of land in Stanly County alone in 2018. We believe this demonstrates our commitment to the conservation of our region’s rural landscapes and family farms.”

The conservation easement selected by the Almonds prevents intensive residential, commercial or industrial development of the property, but allows the continuation of the traditional uses of the property, including hunting and agriculture.

The Almonds have plans to enhance the wildlife habitat of the property by planting hardwood trees near Mountain Creek.