Conservation group halts effort to preserve Sledge Forest in New Hanover County

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A nonprofit dedicated to protecting land and water resources in North Carolina says it will no longer pursue efforts to conserve the Sledge Forest property in New Hanover County.

Unique Places to Save announced Friday that its application for funding through the North Carolina Land and Water Fund was not successful, ending its role in the proposed Sledge Forest Conservation Project.

According to a news release, the 1,160-acre property, located along the Northeast Cape Fear River, is known for its ecological significance. It includes tidal marsh and swamp wetlands, uplands with longleaf pine, and critical habitats for rare species.

“Although we are disappointed by the funding outcome, our commitment to the conservation of land and high-quality aquatic resources in North Carolina remains unwavering,” said Dr. Christine Pickens, Executive Director of Unique Places to Save. “Sledge Forest represents a unique and irreplaceable natural resource, and we encourage continued efforts to protect it for future generations.”

While the nonprofit will not continue in an active role, it voiced strong support for future conservation initiatives that may safeguard the property.