Community gathers after 10,000 sign petition to save Sledge Forest

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A rally was held Saturday at Innes Park as part of an ongoing effort to protect Sledge Forest, a stretch of old-growth forest in New Hanover County.

The event celebrated 10,000 signatures on a petition opposing a proposed development called “Hiltons Bluff.”

The group Save Sledge Forest says the area, located in Castle Hayne, is the last significant old-growth forest in the county.

Speakers at the rally raised concerns about increased flood risk, loss of wetlands, and impacts on local wildlife if the development moves forward.

Robin Wood, president of the Cape Fear Audubon Society, said the issue goes beyond environmental concerns.

“When we talk about growth and development it’s not just the cost on the biodiversity it’s the cost that is taken on the residents and if we are going to be a community then we have to think about the people that are living here already not just planning for outside investment,” Wood said.

After the speeches, participants held signs along North Third Street in downtown Wilmington.

The event concluded with a community gathering at a nearby brewery, welcoming longtime supporters and newcomers to the cause.