The LandTrust for Central NC would like to announce the protection of a unique property in the Uwharries. The LandTrust recently purchased 245 acres of a larger 308 acre tract which has long been considered one of the most important unprotected large parcels in the Uwharrie National Forest / Morrow Mountain State Park area. With the closing, they also received a three year option to purchase the remaining 63 acres, which fronts on Lake Tillery directly across from Morrow Mountain State Park. The LandTrust is partnering with the national conservation group Trust for Public Land (TPL) to ensure that this special property is made available for public use and recreation in the near future.

This 245 acre property is located at the convergence of the Uwharrie River and Dutchman's Creek, adjacent to the confluence of the Uwharrie River and Lake Tillery. It is at this point where the "Yadkin River" becomes the "Pee Dee River." The recently purchased parcel is located directly across from the boat launch in Morrow Mountain State Park, and is prominently visible from many hiking trails within the park. The land to be protected features unique natural rock formations, a rare and scenic piedmont waterfall, scenic vistas of the Uwharrie Mountains and Morrow Mountain State Park, and access to both Lake Tillery and the Uwharrie River. There are also significant archaeological resources on this property which will be studied and protected.

"We are extremely proud and excited to announce the conservation of this tract, long considered one of the most important land conservation opportunities in the region," says Jason Walser, executive director of The LandTrust. "Our long-term goal is to see this property opened to the public as an expansion of Morrow Mountain State Park or perhaps an expansion of the Uwharrie National Forest. For many years, we have been working to make the Uwharrie National Forest and the Uwharrie River more accessible to the public, and this parcel is an absolutely critical piece in terms of enhancing the paddling and fishing opportunities on the Uwharrie River. It also represents the only opportunity to tie the 25 mile Uwharrie Recreation Trail into Lake Tillery, as well as Falls and Badin Reservoirs. The public recreational opportunities for this parcel truly cannot be overstated."

Walser says the tract was acquired with major assistance from a private donor who has provided financial assistance for other Uwharrie area conservation projects. Fundraising for the second phase of the property is just beginning, and donations from the public are encouraged.

Please click the following link as well to view a presentation on site of
Native American projectile points found on the property by Mr. Arron Capel
to Jason Walser, Executive Director of The LandTrust.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5q8PhoZKuY

Thanks so much to all who were instrumental in seeing this spectacular
property conserved for future generations. For more information, please email The LandTrust at landtrust@landtrustcnc.org. More pictures of this beautiful property can be seen on The LandTrust's Facebook page.