Protecting local waters is one of Three Rivers Land Trust’s (TRLT) most important missions, which is why TRLT is proud to announce the permanent protection of 467 acres along Drowning Creek in Moore County. Drowning Creek is the headwaters of the Lumber River and is classified as a high-quality watershed by the State of North Carolina. The stream is also the primary drinking water source for the Town of Southern Pines. Protection of this property will help ensure the continued maintenance of water quality along this stretch of Drowning Creek.

The Auman Family approached TRLT many years ago and expressed their wishes to see this land conserved. Now, in partnership with the North Carolina Land and Water Fund and the Enviva Forest Conservation Fund, TRLT has helped turn the family’s dreams into a reality.

“Not only has this project protected critical riparian buffers along Drowning Creek, but it has also ensured important wildlife habitat in the Sandhills of North Carolina,” stated Kyle Shores, Senior Land Protection Specialist at Three Rivers Land Trust. “The Auman Family actively manages this property as a long leaf community, which is key habitat for wildlife species in the Sandhills of North Carolina.”

“The forethought of the Auman Family permanently conserving their land with TRLT will directly benefit the water quality of Drowning Creek and, therefore, the residents of Moore County into the future. We are so grateful for families like the Aumans for protecting North Carolina’s natural resources for future generations,” said Executive Director Travis Morehead.

Conservation of these 467 acres, and others like them, can only happen with your support. Moore County and North Carolina’s future is in the hands of individuals, landowners, and Land Trusts.