Located near Finger in Stanly County are 54 acres of hardwood forests and
agricultural fields, now permanently conserved by Three Rivers Land Trust (TRLT). This property has frontage on Finger Road and is in close proximity to two previously conserved properties.

This project also aids in protecting water quality in the region, as a tributary of Big Bear Creek runs through the property.

“Nearby communities are experiencing a lot of growth, but urban growth is a direct contributor to farmland loss in the area. Unfortunately, farmland loss is becoming more and more prevalent in our 15-county region, which is why we are working to conserve local farmland while we still can. Protecting farmland now is a must if we hope to ensure agriculture has a prominent place in our region and local economy,” said Travis Morehead, TRLT executive director.

Three Rivers Land Trust works with landowners to accomplish their conservation goals, and each project is unique. This project was a donated easement by the landowner who wanted to see their property permanently protected.

“We are incredibly thankful to work with landowners that see the importance in conserving their land, especially farmland. We are losing
farmland at an alarming rate, and with projects like this, we can ensure that spaces for agriculture will be around for generations to come. Not only does protecting farmland help sustain our state’s agricultural economy, but it also helps maintain the rural character of North Carolina,” TRLT Land Protection Specialist Emily Callicutt said.