The Preserves
The state of North Carolina owns more than 14,000 acres of preserves through the NC Plant Conservation Program (NC PCP). Through the efforts of the program, 51 of the 419 listed plant species are protected in their natural habitats on 24 preserves.
Sadly, most of our endangered, threatened, and special concern plants are not on preserves and remain unprotected in spite of their official listing.
Preserves differ from lands set aside by NC for gamelands, state parks, state natural areas, and state recreational areas (see definitions below). North Carolina purchases these preserves because the land is home to one or more endangered or threatened plant species in their natural habitat. Management efforts are directed at conserving the habitat and restoring populations to a healthy, sustainable condition.
Preserves do not have trails or other amenities and there are currently no maps. Visits to the preserves require a permit; VOLUNTEER WORKDAYS ARE SCHEDULED throughout the year by the Friends and NCPCP staff. Access for research or other purposes consistent with plant conservation can be arranged through the NC PCP office. (Permit information)
Sadly, most of our endangered, threatened, and special concern plants are not on preserves and remain unprotected in spite of their official listing.
Preserves differ from lands set aside by NC for gamelands, state parks, state natural areas, and state recreational areas (see definitions below). North Carolina purchases these preserves because the land is home to one or more endangered or threatened plant species in their natural habitat. Management efforts are directed at conserving the habitat and restoring populations to a healthy, sustainable condition.
Preserves do not have trails or other amenities and there are currently no maps. Visits to the preserves require a permit; VOLUNTEER WORKDAYS ARE SCHEDULED throughout the year by the Friends and NCPCP staff. Access for research or other purposes consistent with plant conservation can be arranged through the NC PCP office. (Permit information)
Sisyrinchium dichotum
Preserves differ from other state-owned lands:
GamelandsTwo million acres have been set aside in NC as gamelands for hunters, trappers, and fishermen.
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State parks
Over 150,000 acres are designated as state parks, because they are valued for their natural resources and recreational opportunities. To the extent that they do not damage the scenic or natural features, facilities for visitors and recreational participants are developed.
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State natural areas
Over 21,000 acres are used to focus on preserving and protecting areas of scientific, aesthetic, or ecological value. Facilities are limited to those needed for interpretation, protection, and minimum maintenance. Generally recreational and public-use facilities, such as camping, swimming, picnicking, and similar activities, are not provided.
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State recreational areas
More than 12,000 acres are used primary for outdoor recreation, rather than preservation. More intensive development of facilities is provided than found in state parks. Protection and enjoyment of the natural resources are a priority; the sites contain scenic and attractive natural features. Development is planned and constructed to keep "reasonable amount" of each area undisturbed and free from improvements and structures.
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