Open space protects natural areas and wildlife habitat.
Residents of North Carolina are fortunate to live in a state with such exceptional ecological diversity. Our state is home to approximately 1,200 rare and endangered plants and animals. However, two-thirds of the identified 1,400 natural heritage areas in North Carolina that are home to many of our rare and endangered wildlife are not permanently protected. Private landowners who respect the natural value of their land are successfully overseeing many of these areas, but many other areas are at a great risk of being developed. In addition, the water quality of North Carolina needs to be protected for our aquatic animals and plants. Wetlands help protect water quality, but already 34% of our state's coastal wetlands have been altered so that they no longer fulfill this function. Critical wildlife habitats must be permanently protected if we wish to continue to enjoy a thriving and diverse wildlife population in North Carolina.

Click here to visit the NC Natural Heritage Program's webpage about protecting open spaces.