North Caroline Senate Budget Includes Increases for Land and Water Conservation

The North Carolina Senate budget was released on June 21 and includes additional money for several conservation and recreation funds. Blue Ridge Conservancy Executive Director Charlie Brady expressed optimism for increased conservation opportunities across the state. “The North Carolina Senate’s budget appropriations for the Land and Water fund and Parks and Recreation Trust fund create an unprecedented opportunity for transformational work to protect our land and water resources and provide recreational opportunities for all North Carolinians. Funding at this level would significantly impact Blue Ridge Conservancy’s ability to expand conservation efforts in our region.”

Funding for State Conservation Funds:
• Land and Water Fund
o Additional $60 million NR in FY21-22. Brings total to $73.2 million for the year.
o Additional $40 million NR in FY22-23. Brings total to $53.2 million for the year.

• Parks and Recreation Trust Fund
o Additional $60 million NR in FY21-22. Brings total to $76.2 million for the year.
o Additional $40 million NR in FY22-23. Brings total to $56.2 million for the year.

• Farmland Preservation Trust Fund
o Additional $35 million NR in FY21-22. Brings total to $39.3 million for the year.
o Additional $20 million NR in FY22-23. Brings total to $24.3 million for the year.

In addition to significant funding for the State’s Conservation Trust Funds, the budget also includes:
o $40 million NR for State Parks Water and Sewer Projects in FY21-22
o $9 million NR in FY21-22 and $3.2 million NR in FY22-23 for Pisgah View State Park
o $15 million NR in FY21-22 for State Historic Sites