Along the shoreline of the Cape Fear River, near Raven Rock State Park, 225 acres of land in Harnett County will remain undeveloped and permanently conserved thanks to the landowners, the NC Land and Water Fund, and Three Rivers Land Trust (TRLT). “This project was important to conserve for several different reasons: for improved water quality of the Cape Fear River, for the property’s visual proximity to Raven Rock State Park, and to help balance the scales of development due to the area’s continued rapid growth,” states Emily Calicutt, TRLT Director of Conservation.

Across the Cape Fear River lies Raven Rock State Park, a nearly 5,000-acre park known for its scenic cliffs, forests, and recreational opportunities. This park draws visitors from the rapidly developing Triangle every weekend. Conserving land adjacent to protected land creates important natural buffers that maintain the park’s scenic character while reducing habitat fragmentation and expanding connected wildlife corridors.

“Our families are delighted to be able to place 225 acres along the Cape Fear River into a permanent conservation easement that will protect the land across from Raven Rock State Park and the water flowing down the Cape Fear River. We initially purchased this land as a place to hike, swim, boat, and hunt with our families and friends. The idea of conserving it permanently came from discussions with Three Rivers Land Trust. It is our hope that others with land along the Cape Fear will do the same so there will be expanses of forest land for future generations to enjoy,” said landowners John Linderman and Mary & Jack Clayton in a joint statement.

The newly conserved property protects over 1 mile of tributaries to the Cape Fear River and approximately a quarter of a mile of shoreline along the Cape Fear River itself. As the primary drinking source for millions of North Carolina residents, the Cape Fear River plays a critical role in supporting the health and well-being of communities across the state.

Protecting local waters is a cornerstone of Three Rivers Land Trust’s mission, and this project puts that commitment into action. By conserving land along the river, Three Rivers Land Trust is helping safeguard water quality, reduce runoff, and protect the long-term health of the watershed. Conserved riparian lands naturally filter pollutants, stabilize stream banks, and provide critical habitat for fish and wildlife, ensuring the river remains a valuable resource for both people and nature.

Through partnerships with private landowners and conservation supporters, Three Rivers Land Trust continues its mission of conserving the lands, waters, and wildlife habitat that define central North Carolina. Funding for this project was provided by the North Carolina General Assembly through the North Carolina Land and Water Fund.