LandTrust easement donors Ron and Nancy Bryant preserved their 170-acre property, 3 Eagles Sanctuary, in 2007, and since then have inspired many others to do the same. When they called The LandTrust looking for a conservation property for their friends, Velvet Motsinger and Debbie Thorpe, one site we suggested caught their eye. In no time at all, they had purchased this special property – another great site for sale on the Uwharrie River in need of a conservation-minded buyer.

They donated a conservation easement on 64 acres that preserve the beautiful river and creek frontage. In addition to boasting a gorgeous natural hardwood forest, this place has the distinction of being the site of our first confirmed black bear sighting. Velvet’s dad was out on the property working on a chicken coop when he spotted a large black bear standing up against a pine tree. Black bear migrate through the Piedmont, but they are usually young males looking for new territory just passing through. Sightings on the Uwharrie River of this adult bear and a trail cam picture on a property nearby of a mom and cub may confirm we have more than just transient bears passing through. Black bears historically were found statewide, and if enough habitat exists, they may become established here once again. Thanks to great landowners like Velvet and Debbie, this is one place where wildlife like bear will always be able to find a home.

Transactional costs for this project were also made possible by a grant from The Conservation Trust for North Carolina.