Wildlife and nature

Animal shelters and rescues

Theater and dance

Rivers, parks and trails

Hunger and food

Schools and learning

Housing and homelessness

Community health

Mental health

Mentoring and foster care

Legal help and rights

Jobs and money help

Atlanta

The Triangle

Everywhere

The Collective Workshop

Royal Animal Refuge

Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta

Georgia Advancing Communities Together

Atlanta Writers Club

Cobb Collaborative

Bosleys Place

Jewish Fertility Foundation

Since 1983, Triangle Land Conservancy has worked to protect the lands and waters that make our region a special place to live, and to ensure everyone can enjoy them.
Lifelong residents and newcomers alike know that the Triangle area of North Carolina is a special place to live. A growing number of people move here every day, drawn by the mild climate, open spaces, pastoral farmland, pristine waterways, and deep forests. This growth and associated development places more pressure on natural areas, wildlife, historic farmland, and water quality.
Fortunately for everyone who loves this area, a group of forward-thinking Triangle residents teamed up in the early 1980s to devise a plan for managing the region’s projected growth. Their recommendation to preserve land was the catalyst for the formation of Triangle Land Conservancy (TLC) in 1983. In just a few years, TLC had its first conservation victory – saving 136 acres from development and creating the White Pines Nature Preserve in Chatham and Lee Counties.
Since then, TLC has protected more than 27,000 acres of wild and working lands thanks to partnerships with private landowners and the support of our community. TLC also owns and manages land – including eight free, public nature preserves that are open year-round, dawn to dusk – and works to restore and protect delicate wildlife habitats.

Birding with Wake Audubon

Schenck Forest & Walton Farm Tour

Biomimicry: Nature as a Mentor

Trail Talks with TLC: Williamson

Nature Storytime: Forest Detectives

Get Wild: FALLing for Trees!

Join Conservation Corps

Become a Trail Guide

Give

Fall Bird Migration

Partnering for conservation: 50 acres now protected in Durham County

Ava's PINES Intern Experience

An ode to Melody and the avians she adored

Tracking Species Movement with Motus

TLC Protects 602 Acres Along the Neuse River in Johnston County

Make A Will Month: Leaving Behind A Legacy for Land

Triangle Land Conservancy Protects 28 Acres Near Big Woods Forest

Summer Hiking Tips

Listening for the Sounds of Summer: A Spotlight on North Carolina's Nightjars

Ayanna Smith

Bo Howes

Christine Wilson

Leigh Ann Hammerbacher

Matt Rutledge

Sandy Sweitzer

Olivia Bowler

Brenna Thompson

Emma Childs

Kierra Hyman

Lily Hutchens

Margaret Sands

Melissa Clunan

Heather Szaro

Nick Adams

Luke Whiteside

Patrick Boleman

Umar Muhammad

Chris Leonard

Hannah Royal

Laura Warman

Sandra Rodriguez

Sarah Gueli

Sonya Spruill

Kiara Cobb

Amaya Horner

Hanna Camptella

Kayla Ebert

Meera Butalia

Florencia Loncán

Olivia Garcia

Amber Crispell

Callie Hart

Jacob Ahlum Hanson

Tanya Dianto

Seth Fox

Cindy Pacchiana

Danny Bell

Javier Arce Nazario

John W. Narron

Let’s Do This Together

Michelle Nowlin

Patrick Mateer

Rodney Dickerson

Tandy Jones

Jackie Leach Pierce

JaLisha Richmond

Jimmy Randolph

While autumn brings plenty of reds, yellows and oranges 🍂, the American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) stands out with its vibrant violet berries that can last well into winter. From its uses in the garden to its importance to local wildlife, there’s more to this native shrub than meets the eye! Read our latest Species Spotlight to learn more about American beautyberry and where you can find it at TLC preserves at the BLOG link in our bio. 🌿 📷 American beautyberry at Williamson Preserve by Leigh Ann Hammerbacher

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! 🗳️ Tomorrow (November 3) is #ElectionDay! If you haven't already voted, be sure to make your plan to get out to the polls, which are open from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM. 📣 Don't forget to bring a photo ID with you!

🎃 Forget the ghosts and goblins. We're dressing up as our favorite people in the conservation world! Whether you're a birder who can't walk past a tree without stopping, a Hiking Challenge fanatic, or a land manager with a drip torch and a carefully planned burn, we've got a costume for you. 🔥🌿 Which TLC-inspired costume would you wear this Halloween? 👀Leaning toward dressing up as a TLC supporter? Check out our merch store at the link in our bio.

Are you a graduate student currently studying history, anthropology, museum studies, or a related field? TLC is #hiring a Historical Interpretation Intern for spring 2027! 📖🌳 Supervised by our Senior Volunteer and Outreach Associate, this position will research and synthesize historical information related to the land use and human history of TLC’s public nature preserves, providing interpretive content such as blog posts and presentations to create a more well-rounded understanding of our work with the community. This is a great opportunity for individuals with experience in historical research, writing, navigating institutional archives, and an interest in communicating our local history to the public. 📣 Applications are due by midnight on Wednesday, November 11 🔗 Learn more and apply at the link in our bio!

It's that time of year again! 🧡 Take this as your official sign to grab your besties (or your boo 👻) and get outside at TLC’s BOO-tiful nature preserves! 🍂 Find your closest TLC preserve at the link in our bio. 🎃 Which preserve will you haunt next?

Are you a hands-on problem-solver who enjoys maintaining buildings, managing projects, and supporting conservation behind the scenes? TLC is #hiring! 💙🌳 We’re looking for a Facilities Manager to join our team. Reporting to the Director of Natural Resources, this role is essential to maintaining TLC’s offices, preserve facilities, equipment, parking lots, and access roads across our six-county service area. As Facilities Manager, you’ll tackle hands-on repairs and preventative maintenance, develop maintenance plans, and lead larger repair and renovation projects, including coordinating outside contractors. This is a great opportunity for individuals with construction, contracting, or related trade experience. 📣 Applications are due by midnight on Sunday, November 15, 2026. 🔗 Learn more and apply at the link in our bio!

Let’s talk about the ways you can make TLC part of your legacy. 🌳 Insurance Policies, 🌳 Wills and Trusts 🌳 Retirement Plans Have an idea that isn't on the list? We want to hear it! Every legacy is different, and our team is here to help you explore how your plans can reflect the places and values you care about most. Let's start the conversation. Learn more about #plannedgiving with TLC at the link in our bio, and contact us today at advancement@triangleland.org if you are interested in the ways to include TLC in your plans. #NEPAW #EstatePlanning 📷 Flower Hill Nature Preserve by Don Kinney

Fall Confluence is here! This extra special edition of TLC's print newsletter celebrates the accomplishments of our historic Force for Nature fundraising campaign, which officially concluded in July. The funds raised have transformed our organization, helping us triple our pace of conservation over the past three years, expand our staff’s expertise, and open a new nature preserve. And the work continues. Read about how the campaign has propelled us forward, and why your continued support is essential at this critical moment for our fast-growing region. Check out the full issue on our website at the link in our bio. 📸Cover photo by Emilia Brennan

It’s National Estate Planning Awareness Week! 🌱 Here at TLC, we believe estate planning can be an opportunity to put your values into action. How can we help you shape your legacy? Our team is here to listen, answer questions, and help you explore ways to make your vision for the future part of your philanthropic plans. Learn more about planned giving with TLC at the link in our bio, and contact us today at advancement@triangleland.org if you are interested in the ways to include TLC in your plans. 📷 Williamson barn by Martha Elliott

Happy Great Trails State Day! 🚴🌿🥾 Today we celebrate the incredible trail systems across North Carolina, and at TLC, we’re proud to play a part in keeping trails in the Triangle. With over 58 miles of trails across 8 public nature preserves, TLC connects people with nature through places to hike, bike, run, explore, and learn. 💙 🌟 Get outside, hit the trails, and celebrate with us!

🌱 Please welcome the newest member of TLC’s Williamson Farm Program: Reclamation FARMacy! @reclamationfarmacy expands access to fresh, nutritious food through agricultural education, hands-on training, and sustainable, culturally relevant farming practices. By building skills and strengthening local food systems, they help foster long-term food security and community resilience. They are committed to cultivating a more equitable and just food system by empowering marginalized communities with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in agriculture. TLC's Williamson Farm Program operates out of Bailey and Sarah Williamson Preserve and provides beginning farmers access to farmland along with shared equipment and infrastructure to help grow their businesses and provide food for the community. Join us in welcoming Reclamation FARMacy to the Williamson family, and stay tuned for information about their groundbreaking event on November 7! 💙 📷 by Jacob Moore

Exciting conservation news! 🌿TLC has protected 69 acres next to our Sarah and Bailey Williamson Nature Preserve. The Neuse River Connector protects one of the last undeveloped areas in the heart of the Shotwell community. This addition expands contiguous protected acreage at Williamson preserve, creating more wildlife corridors and widening buffers around the streams the feed the Neuse River. In the future, we plan to add walking trails and a new public access point connecting the preserve to the Neuse River Greenway, which is part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Thank you to our partners at Novo Nordisk (@novonordiskus) and the N.C. General Assembly for helping protect this land forever. 🌳💙 Please note: The property isn’t open to the public yet. Stay tuned! Learn more about this conservation win at the BLOG link in our bio.

Spotted at Brumley! 🦨 This little striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) was caught prancing around on one of TLC’s trail cameras! These nocturnal omnivores thrive in areas with a mix of woods, brush, and open fields, so it’s no surprise they’ve made themselves at home at TLC preserves. And that iconic black-and-white coat? It’s a warning to potential predators to keep their distance. When threatened, skunks can spray a foul-smelling musk from scent glands near their tails. Consider this your friendly reminder to admire these critters from afar! 👀

Today is #DAF day. Protect the places you love 💙 People everywhere are increasing the impact of their Donor-Advised Funds by giving together, and we’re thrilled that TLC is part of this nationwide day of generosity. If you have a DAF, this is a perfect time to recommend a grant to TLC and help protect the places that make this region so special. Every grant recommended through your DAF protects natural habitats and safeguards clean water, and local farms. Together, we're protecting the places we all love. Contact your DAF administrator and recommend a grant for TLC today! #dafday #myDAFwill 📷 Williamson Nature Preserve by Don Kinney

As you stroll or bike at Brumley South Nature Preserve, you may find yourself in awe of this towering forest giant. 🌳 The eastern white oak (Quercus alba), easily identified by its lobed leaves with no bristles, can reach heights of 135 ft! These native hardwoods are deciduous, which means they shed their leaves each fall to save energy during the cold winters. 🍂 As Amaya mentions in this video, the acorns of white oaks are edible to humans, but only after tannins are leached or boiled out, so we advise against grabbing a quick snack right off the tree. Where have you spotted an Eastern White Oak at TLC's preserves? #speciesspotlight #easternwhiteoak #trianglelandconservancy

📱 Have you noticed these acronyms on your kid’s phone lately? They might say they’re just catching up with a friend, but don’t be fooled. The real conversation? Local land conservation. 🌿

The end of summer brings shorter days and, eventually, cooler weather. It also marks the beginning of fall migration! 🍂 Twice a year, billions of birds across North America embark on journeys of all lengths and destinations in search of plentiful food and nesting resources. In the fall, many birds leave their summer breeding grounds for their wintering grounds as insects and other food sources become less abundant. The White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) featured here is one of the many species you may spot arriving for the winter at a TLC nature preserve. 🐦 Read more about fall migration and find tips for how you can support and protect birds this time of year at the BLOG link in our bio. 📸 White-throated Sparrow by Ross McKinney

📣Horton Grove Nature Preserve will be closed today October 1 so that TLC staff can safely conduct a prescribed burn. Fire is an effective and safe management tool when used in the right conditions by trained professionals. We will be burning both grassland and woodland habitats. The purpose of burning these habitats is to promote warm season grasses and forbs, reduce woody plant competition, promote oak regeneration in the surrounding woodlands, and improve habitats overall Please do not enter the preserve so that we can conduct this burn safely. Thank you!

🌊 Sunday was World Rivers Day—a reminder that every stream and creek in the Triangle eventually flows into the Neuse or Cape Fear River and on to the Atlantic. These waterways provide drinking water to more than a million people, while also nourishing forests, farms, and wildlife along the way. At TLC, protecting clean water is at the heart of our work. From conserving forests that act as natural filters to safeguarding wetlands and soils, every acre we protect helps keep our rivers healthy. 💧 📷River Otters at Williamson by Don Kinney

Today is #NationalPublicLandsDay! 🌳 With more than 59 miles of walking and mountain biking trails at our public preserves, as well as hundreds of events each year designed to get people outside, TLC strives to connect people with nature. Time spent outdoors can lower blood pressure, enhance the immune system, increase self-esteem, and reduce anxiety. 🚴‍♀️🥾 Discover your new favorite hiking trail at one of TLC's eight public nature preserves! Where will you explore next?

🌿 Last week, members of our team had the opportunity to attend the @ltalliance RALLY Conference in Denver, Colorado. 🌎✨ This incredible event brought together land conservation professionals from across the country to learn, connect, and strengthen our shared mission. Members of TLC's staff presented on the innovative work we are doing in the Triangle, and our team came back energized, full of new ideas, and inspired by the powerful work happening nationwide. We’re excited to put what we learned into action as we continue protecting the lands we all love. 💙

🍂 Happy Fall Equinox! 🍂 As we welcome the beginning of autumn tonight, consider planning your next fall hike. Join TLC next week to explore Williamson Nature Preserve for "Fall Line Harvest Time." Located along North Carolina’s Fall Line, the geological zone separating the Piedmont and Coastal Plain, Williamson offers a unique look at where these two regions meet. On this 4-mile moderate hike, you’ll learn about the preserve’s history, discover common species found throughout the Neuse River basin, and walk toward the Johnston County line while taking in the sights of early fall. 🍁 📍 Williamson Nature Preserve 📅 Monday, September 28 | 4-7 p.m. 🎟️ Pre-registration is required at the EVENTS link in our bio 📷 Don Kinney

When you look at a turkey vulture, what do you see? To Melody Scott, these birds represented beauty, individuality, and uniqueness. Along with their critical roles as a scavenger species, vultures are also known to hold great significance in many cultures around the world. To honor Melody and her love of vultures after her passing last year, Melody's husband Ron donated a bench to TLC along Horton Grove Preserve's Holman Loop. This month, Melody's friends and family gathered to dedicate the bench and the poem plaque that accompanies it. "Ode to a Turkey Vulture" was beloved by Melody, whose mother wrote it after being inspired by her daughter's love for the birds. From the bench, visitors can sit and admire the grassland habitat and sweeping view of open sky where turkey and black vultures are frequent flyers. So, take some time to sit, relax, and admire these magnificent soaring creatures on your next hike at Horton Grove. Read more about Melody and her love for nature and vultures at the 'BLOG' link in our bio. 📸Photos by TLC Staff

Looks like we’ve got some very special visitors at the office! 🦋🌿 We’ve been spotting monarchs in all stages of their life cycle: tiny caterpillars munching on milkweed, chrysalises tucked away as they transform, and beautiful adult butterflies fluttering by! And that incredible transformation from caterpillar to butterfly happens in just about 10–14 days inside the chrysalis! 🤯 Did you know monarch caterpillars eat milkweed? 🌱 As they munch, they store toxic compounds from the milkweed in their bodies, making them unappealing to many predators. From caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly, we’re lucky to have a front-row seat to one of nature’s most amazing transformations.

Oh, did no one ever tell you that the real cool kids spend their time learning about trees in the Triangle? Hmm… weird. 🤔 TLC hosts Trail Talks, hikes led by TLC staff on a topic of their choosing at one of our eight public nature preserves. Last month, Umar, TLC’s Associate Land Manager, East, led a dendrology hike at Old Creedmoor Nature Preserve, where participants strolled the trails while learning how to identify trees found throughout the preserve. 🌳 Want to join the cool kids? Check out TLC’s lineup of free events: https://triangleland.org/events

This month's Species Spotlight: Cricket Frogs! 🐸 Hear from Ava, TLC's Education PINES Intern, about these amazing amphibians and their success in habitats like at our Williamson Preserve. While Ava is searching for frogs at Williamson in this video, if you're visiting a TLC preserve, please keep your distance from water lines and leave critters where you find them as to not disrupt their habitats. #speciesspotlight#cricketfrog #TriangleLandConservancy

Fall is just around the corner! 🍂 Join us on September 22 for an evening Autumn Equinox Hike at Williamson preserve. Walk with naturalist, Julie Hall on a 2.5-mile nature investigation along Two Ponds Loop and Pine Warbler Trail. This family-friendly hike will end with an opportunity to view the sunset over the fields as the autumnal equinox approaches. ☀️ 📍 Where: Williamson Nature Preserve ⏰ When: Tuesday, September 22 | 6-8 PM ✅This event is free, but spots are limited, so be sure to register at https://triangleland.org/event/autumn-equinox-hike. 📷 Dragonfly at Williamson Preserve by Don Kinney

It's that time of year again! College life can be busy, but nature is closer than you think. 🌿✨ TLC preserves offer the perfect escape, whether you need a quiet study spot, a weekend hike, or just some fresh air to recharge. We’ve highlighted the closest four colleges to some of our preserves so you can see which wild spaces are right in your backyard. 💙🎓 Learn more about our public preserves at the link in our bio. Which preserve will you explore next?

You might wonder: Can naming TLC as a beneficiary really make an impact? Does the size of the gift matter? Let us tell you — it does. Every legacy gift, every acre protected tells a story of people who cared enough to preserve it. Together, we're leaving the land better than we found it. Because of supporters like you, TLC can continue protecting the places we love for generations. Special thanks to all our Longview Society members, including Cynthia and Steve Sollod, for helping make this lasting work possible. Interested in learning more about TLC's Longview Society? Visit our Planned Giving page at the link in our bio to explore how your legacy can help protect the land you love. 📸Steve and Cynthia Sollod, members of TLC's Longview Society, at our Fall River Society event last October. Photo by Emilia Brennan

Our PINES summer interns were such important contributors to TLC's mission this summer, and we wanted to spotlight some of their work. 🌳💙 One of the interns, Ava Lipsey, spent her summer working with TLC's Education & Outreach team - getting the opportunity to plan and lead her own environmental education event. Check out our latest blog written by Ava to learn about her experience with PINES and how she'll continue to support local land conservation efforts. 📲Read all about it at the 'BLOG' link in our bio

Through TLC’s PINES program (Pathways Into Natural Environments and Science), Knightdale High School students explore careers in conservation and natural resources through hands-on projects, field experiences and conversations with professionals. And that means getting outside! Since the program started five years ago, @trustygopc has helped outfit PINES students with footwear and other gear so that they are well equipped to learn. Thank you GOPC for supporting PINES students and championing access to the outdoors!

Life changes happen fast. New job? New grandbaby? Big move? Retirement? Your plans may need a refresh too. #MakeAWillMonth is a great reminder to check that your estate plans still reflect the people, places, and causes you care about most. If TLC is part of your plans and life has changed in the last few years, we would love to hear from you. Updating your plans and sharing your intentions helps us honor your wishes and celebrate the legacy you are building for the lands you love. If you are interested in leaving TLC in your plans visit the link in our bio! 📷 Horton Grove Nature Preserve by Sandra Rodriguez

We hear that caring about local land conservation is kinda chic. 🌎✨ #trianglelandconservancy #landtrust #trianglenc

Your legacy starts with a plan. Have you started planning your legacy? Estate planning doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Taking a few simple steps today can help provide for your loved ones while supporting the causes you care about. 🌱 Take inventory of your assets. 🌱 Think about what matters most. 🌱 Connect with the organizations you care about. 🌱 Talk with a trusted advisor. Learn more about #MakeAWillMonth by visiting the link in our bio. If you are considering leaving TLC in your estate plans, we’d love to hear from you! 📷 Eastern Bluebird at Horton Grove by Andrew Eicher

You may have noticed a new addition to the landscape at Brumley North! The preserve now hosts the Triangle's first Motus tower, part of a global network of wildlife tracking stations (led by @birds.canada) using radio telemetry. Tagged birds, bats, and insects will send radio signals to the tower as they pass by, contributing to an important database for conservation research and efforts. Our friends at @newhopebirdalliance generously funded and installed the tower with help from @americanbirdconservancy - choosing Brumley North as the host site based on its habitat quality and reputation as a popular hotspot for birds. 🔗Read more at the link in our bio and stay tuned for more updates from this exciting collaboration! 📸Photos by Olivia Garcia and Bo Howes

Not all heroes wear capes… some carry loppers! 🌿 Our stewardship interns wrapped up their summer with TLC at the end of July, and we miss them already! Julio, Noe, and Ezekiel did an amazing job working alongside our Land Management team to remove invasive plants, contribute to the Williamson Outdoor Learning Center, and support TLC staff across the organization. We’re so grateful for all their hard work and the care they brought to our preserves this summer. We wish them the very best of luck in all their future endeavors! 🌱 Video inspired by @swmlc

The places we love have a way of staying with us. Maybe it’s the trail you walk every weekend, the farm landscape that reminds you of home, or the quiet place where you go to recharge. These spaces become part of our stories, and we all have a role in caring for them. Every person's story is unique, and the legacy you choose to leave is deeply personal. No matter the size or type of gift, every contribution makes a difference. If you’re interested in learning more about ways to support TLC, we’d love to have a conversation and help you find an option that feels right for you. Visit the 'Make A Will Month' link in our bio to learn more. 📷 Williamson Preserve by Don Kinney

🌞 Don't let the summer heat keep you from enjoying the great outdoors! Take a look at some effective tips to help you stay cool, safe, and hydrated while exploring TLC preserves. Learn what essentials to pack, how to dress smart, and when to hit the trails to avoid peak heat at TLC's blog, The Dirt, at the link in our bio. 📷 Hikers at Old Creedmoor Preserve by TLC Staff

Do you have a favorite place to explore outdoors or a hobby that helps connect you with nature? Protecting open spaces focuses on the future, ensuring your community and loved ones will be able to have those same experiences for generations to come. August is Make A Will Month – a time of reflection and preparation. Think about what matters to you now and imagine how it might be in five, ten or twenty years from now. How can your legacy shape the future? Learn more about Make A Will Month by visiting the link in our bio. If you are considering leaving TLC in your estate plans, we’d love to hear from you. 📷 Butterfly at Williamson Preserve by Don Kinney

More great news along the Neuse River! 🎉 TLC has permanently protected an additional 602 acres within the Neuse River Lowgrounds in Johnston County, bringing the total protected in this important landscape to more than 1,400 since June. Known as the Gar Gut Mashes, this property includes more than two miles of Neuse River frontage, over 400 acres of wetlands, and diverse habitat supporting wild turkey, black bears, great blue herons, Swainson's warblers, and many other species. The land's extensive floodplain also plays a vital role in filtering drinking water and reducing flood impacts for downstream communities. This incredible conservation milestone was made possible through the @nclandwaterfund, @jocogovnc, and the generosity of the Massengill family. 🔗Read more on our blog at the link in our bio. 📸Photos by TLC Staff #trianglelandconservancy #landprotection #johnstoncountync #trianglenc

Have you heard about the Williamson Farm Program? 🌽 This program provides underrepresented beginning farmers with access to farmland at TLC's Bailey and Sarah Williamson Preserve, as well as shared use of equipment and infrastructure including a tractor and the Agriculture Pavilion. The program mitigates barriers to entry for new farmers, allowing them to devote more time to growing their business, supporting the local economy, and providing food to the community. 120 acres at Williamson Preserve are designated for the program, and five farms are currently operating at the preserve. Are you a farmer or group of farmers looking for 1-5 acres of land? 🥬🐄🥕 TLC is looking to add another farmer to the Williamson Farm Program this Fall! Read our request for farm proposals and learn about the program's qualifications and guiding principles at the link in our bio. Proposals are due by September 1, 2026. 📷 Karen Community Farm at Williamson Preserve by Jacob D. Moore

As dusk rolls around this evening, see if you can hear the sounds of summer - the call of the Nightjars. Nightjars are nocturnal birds in the Caprimulgidae family that are found on all continents, excluding Antarctica. Here in the Piedmont of North Carolina we have three species: ☆ Chuck-will's-widow (Antrostomus carolinensis) ☆ Common nighthawk (Chordeiles minor) ☆ Eastern whip-poor-will (Antrostomus vociferus) All three of our local nightjar species have experienced concerning levels of population declines. TLC works to protect vital open space, and each year we are protecting these places through conservation easements on private property and fee simple purchases of land. Learn more about these amazing birds in our newest Species Spotlight on TLC's blog, The Dirt, at the link in our bio.

We want to extend a big thank you to the outgoing members of our Board of Directors - Bert Fisher, Rebecca Balter, Anupama Joshi, Jenny Bo, and Paige Jackson - for their dedicated service. Their experience, guidance, and commitment to protecting local conservation has helped accelerate our work in all areas, including supporting the opening a new nature preserve, meeting and exceeding our goal of protecting 25,000 acres of land, and helping to raise over $65 million for our Force for Nature campaign. 🔗Read more on our BLOG. 📸 Paige Jackson, Bert Fisher, and Rebecca Balter at TLC's Brumley office. Photo by Olivia Bowler.

Our final National Moth Week spotlight is proof that there's always one more amazing moth to discover. 🌿 It's hard to miss the bright pink and yellow rosy maple moths (Dryocampa rubicunda) when they arrive on the sheets! The smallest of the silk moths, rosy maple moths only have a 2" wingspan. Females mainly lay eggs on maple trees (hence their name) and sometimes also on oaks. Caterpillars, known as greenstriped mapleworms, eat whole leaves on the trees they hatched on, then drop to the ground under that tree and pupate in the soil. Leaving the leaves and planting shrubs and herbaceous plants under maples helps the pupae have soft landings when they leave the tree canopies. #mothweek #RosyMapleMoths #trianglelandconservancy #speciesspotlight

National Moth Week continues with another showstopper: the regal moth (Citheronia regalis)! Bright orangey-red when not under UV lights, regal moths (Citheronia regalis) are Saturniid cousins of luna and tuliptree silk moths that can reach 6" wingspans. People may be more familiar with their very impressive, and very spiky caterpillar stage, known as "Hickory horned devils". As their name implies, the caterpillars feed on hickories, walnuts, sumacs and other local hardwood trees. Unlike their cousins, regal moths pupate in the ground, and only have one emergence every year around the time when the humidity arrives. #mothweek #regalmoths #trianglelandconservancy #speciesspotlight

Help shape the future of the J Branch Rail Corridor! 🛤️ The J Branch Rail Trail Feasibility Study is seeking community input on the potential transformation of the nearly 11-mile rail corridor, also known as the State University Railroad or the J Line. This Norfolk Southern rail line is currently used to deliver coal to the UNC Co-Generation Steam and Power Plant. This study will determine potential future uses for the corridor through @townofchapelhill, @townofcarrboro, and @ocncgov, exploring multimodal opportunities for bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit. There are two remaining community workshops - July 22 and August 1 - for the community to attend and share visions and priorities with the study team. 🔗Register to attend at the link in our bio. 📸Photo courtesy of the J Branch Rail Trail Feasibility Study #orangecountync #chapelhillnc #carrboronc

It’s National Moth Week! 🌙✨ We’re celebrating by shining a spotlight on one of North America’s most beloved moths: the Luna Moth (Actias luna). Who doesn't love a luna moth? How can you not love a luna moth? These light green giant silk moths are one of the largest moths in North America, and their wingspan can exceed 7". Luna moths lay their eggs on sweetgums, persimmons, hickories and other common trees, and caterpillars in the South have digestive enzymes that even allow them to feed on black walnut leaves. You can tell a male from a female lune moth by their antennae- Males have much larger antennae which they use to find the females from up to several miles away! Luna moths pupate over winter in cocoons buried in leaf litter- a good reason to leave your leaves! 📷 Luna moth (Actias luna) on light by Laura Warman #mothweek #lunamoths #trianglelandconservancy #speciesspotlight

One of the highlights of Summer PINES is our annual kayaking trip to @wakegov’s Robertson Millpond Preserve! For several students, this paddle through the cypress trees and blackwater swamp was their first time kayaking. 🚣‍♂️🌲 It’s #ParksAndRecreationMonth and we’re grateful for the parks and nature preserves that make outdoor education experiences like this possible - connecting students with nature, building community, and inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders. 🌱 🔗 Check out more about our Pathways Into Natural Environments and Science fellowship at the link in our bio.

Come along on a Summer PINES field trip! 🌲☀️ TLC’s Pathways Into Natural Environmenta and Science (PINES) students began their summer activities with behind the scenes looks at Brumley and Johnston Mill nature preserves. While creek sampling at New Hope Creek, the students discovered important indicator species like hellgrammites, crawdads, and even some salamanders! The group later toured Brumley’s north section and learned about adaptive land management and prescribed fire straight from the professionals. Learn more about TLC’s PINES fellowship at the link in our bio! #trianglelandconservancy #PINESfellowship #environmentaleducation #brumleynaturepreserve #johnstonmillnaturepreserve

UPDATE (8/20/2026): Swift Creek Bluffs' Beech Bluffs loop is now cleared and open. ⚠️ Trail Update for Swift Creek Bluffs Preserve ⚠️ If you're planning to visit the nature preserve soon, please note that there is a temporary trail closure along Beech Bluffs Loop. Due to recent storms, there is a large tree across the trail that our team is working to remove, but will take some time. To avoid this obstacle, please take the Swift Creek Loop (marked in blue) to cut around the closed area to access the rest of the preserve. Thank you! #trianglelandconservancy #hiketlc #carync #raleighnc #swiftcreekbluffs #northcarolina

This week our Pathways Into Natural Environments and Science (PINES) Students are coming together for a week full of outdoor adventures, hands-on learning, and a deep dive into conservation careers. To kickstart PINES week, we're reminiscing to earlier this year, where the students got outfitted with new boots and wool socks by @trustygopc . We're so grateful for partnerships like these that support these students in their exploration of conservation careers. Connecting people to nature is a critical part of TLC's mission and the PINES program works to provide opportunities for Knightdale High School students to network, explore conservation careers, and experience the outdoors as part of a learning community. Learn more about the PINES fellowship at the link in our bio.

Discover the art of making your own paper 🌿📝 Join us at Williamson Nature Preserve for Make Paper n' Nature, a free hands-on workshop where you'll learn the ancient art of papermaking while exploring a more sustainable way to create. By making your own paper from recycled materials, you can help reduce the demand for virgin wood fiber—and give discarded paper a second life. Whether you're a nature lover, artist, or just looking to try something new, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to get creative outdoors. 📅 July 25 | 9:30–11:30 a.m. 📍 Bailey and Sarah Williamson Nature Preserve 👥 Ages 12+ 🎟️ Free, but pre-registration is required at the EVENTS link in our bio

🌾 A big win for North Carolina's working farms! As members of Land for Tomorrow, TLC is grateful to the North Carolina General Assembly and Gov. Josh Stein (@nc_governor) for passing the 2026 state budget, which includes a strong investment in the Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund (NCADFP) while maintaining stable funding for the N.C. Land and Water Fund and the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund. Together, these conservation trust funds help keep working farms in production, like Stensvad Farm, a TLC project that closed earlier this year with funds from the NCADFP. TLC Staff visited the NC Capitol in May for Farmland Preservation Advocacy Day along with other land trusts, landowners, and county partners to talk with legislators about the importance of this state funding for conservation across North Carolina. These investments protect the lands and waters that fuel North Carolina's economy, support agriculture and forestry, strengthen outdoor recreation and tourism, safeguard clean water, and preserve the places that define our state's heritage. #NCGA #NCLeg #Farmland #Agriculture #Conservation #LandForTomorrow 📷 Chatham County and TLC staff with the Stensvad family to celebrate the protection of their 59-acre farm 📷 TLC's Leigh Ann Hammerbacher with Representative James Roberson and farmer, Patrick Johnson.

Have you ever heard of the Carolina stonefly?💧 This week, Meera, TLC's Education and Outreach Associate, is spotlighting these amazing macroinvertebrates. These small insects spend most of their lives underwater, where they help keep streams healthy by feeding on decaying leaves and organic matter. Because stoneflies are highly sensitive to pollution, spotting them is often a sign of clean, healthy water. While Meera is searching for Stoneflies in New Hope Creek in this video, if you're visiting a TLC preserve, please leave rocks where you find them. Turning over rocks can disrupt the delicate habitat that stoneflies and many other aquatic creatures depend on. #speciesspotlight #carolinastonefly #streamhealth #TriangleLandConservancy

🌙✨ What happens after midnight? According to seasoned moth-ers, that's when some of the night's most remarkable visitors begin to appear. National Moth Week is from July 18-26, and this year, we're staying up late for something a little different. Join TLC and @ncbackyardbutterflies for Midnight Mothing at Brumley Nature Preserve, where we'll search for the species that emerge in the quietest hours of the night. Why midnight? What makes the pre-dawn hours so special? Check out our latest blog written by Lior Carlson, Co-founder of Backyard Butterflies, to discover the inspiration behind this one-of-a-kind event and why the stillness of the night offers an unforgettable way to experience nature. 🌌🦋 🌙 Midnight Mothing 📅 July 18/19 🕛 12–3 a.m. 📍 Brumley Nature Preserve 🔗 Read the blog and register at the link in our bio.

A huge thank you to the incredible volunteers who make our work possible. 💙 Since last July, more than 500 volunteers donated their time, contributing an incredible 3,285 hours in support of Triangle Land Conservancy's mission. From removing invasive plants and maintaining trails to monitoring conservation easements, leading hikes and education programs, and connecting with the community during our Force for Nature Campaign, our volunteers make a lasting impact across the Triangle. Volunteers also took on special projects like building the Nature Play Space at Brumley Nature Preserve and planting the native edible walkway at Williamson Nature Preserve. This June, we celebrated volunteers who reached 50–100+ hours of service and recognized several individuals with staff-nominated awards for their outstanding dedication. 🌿 Thank you to every volunteer who shared your time, energy, and passion with TLC this past year. We couldn't do this work without you! If you're interested in becoming a TLC volunteer visit the link in our bio

🐾 It's coyote pup rearing season! Coyotes have been spotted at several TLC preserves, including these curious visitors at Brumley Nature Preserve. Did you know coyotes make at least 11 different vocalizations? That's why they're nicknamed the "song dog!" 🎶 Coyotes are wild animals that have adapted well to both natural and suburban environments. They're naturally wary of people, but during pup rearing season they may be more active and protective as they defend their dens and young. Keeping pets leashed at TLC preserves helps protect both your pet and the surrounding ecosystem. Coyotes may see outdoor cats and small unleashed dogs as prey, while larger dogs may be viewed as potential threats—especially during this time of year. If you encounter a coyote that appears to be defending a specific area, there may be a den nearby. Stay calm, give the animal plenty of space, and leave the area. Learn more about coyotes at the link in our bio 🔗

Step into 65 acres of protected forests, winding streams, and nearly four miles of scenic trails at Old Creedmoor Nature Preserve. 🌿✨ Nestled in Wake Forest, just 25 minutes from Raleigh and Durham, TLC's newest public nature preserve offers peaceful multi-use trails — a place where conservation and community come together. Free and open daily from dawn to dusk, come explore, recharge, and discover your new favorite trail. 🌲🚲 📍13509 Old Creedmoor Rd Wake Forest, NC 27587 🌧 This preserve will close due to rain. Be sure to check our TLC's trail status page on our website. 🥾 Learn more at the Preserves link in our bio.

🌿 Big conservation news! 🌿 Earlier this month, TLC protected more than 800 acres along the Neuse River with the support of Johnston County — the second largest land acquisition in TLC's history. Neuse Islands Wilderness is in the Lowgrounds, one of the largest remaining wilderness areas in the Triangle. This remarkable landscape provides critical habitat for migratory birds, fox squirrels, amphibians, reptiles, and several rare species. Many of the trees, including cypress, are more than 200 years old. The acquisition strengthens a growing corridor of protected land along the Neuse River between Smithfield and Goldsboro that safeguards wildlife habitat and improves water quality and flood mitigation. Thank you to Johnston County, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, the U.S. Air Force, and TLC's generous donors for making this conservation success possible. 🔗Read more at the link in our bio.

North Carolina’s farms, forests, and natural areas are a vital part of what makes our state strong. As members of Land for Tomorrow, we are grateful to the North Carolina General Assembly for passing SB 401, the NC Farm Act, which includes a four-year extension of the Conservation Tax Credit. The Conservation Tax Credit provides a practical, valuable tool that helps landowners protect working farms, forests, wildlife habitat, and other important lands. This extension gives landowners greater certainty as they plan for the future and helps ensure that conservation remains a viable option across North Carolina. It also strengthens the impact of our state's conservation trust funds by encouraging additional private investment in land protection. Thank you to the legislators who supported SB 401 and continue to champion policies that protect North Carolina’s agricultural heritage, natural resources, and local communities. Together, these investments help preserve the lands that support our economy, strengthen rural communities, and define our state's way of life. #ncleg #NCGA #NCFarmAct

TLC is excited to introduce this year's summer PINES interns- please welcome Ezekiel, Noe, Julio, and Ava! ☀️ Ezekiel, Julio, and Noe will be spending the summer working full-time with Land Stewardship Associate East, Umar Muhammad. Ava is interning with TLC’s Education & Outreach team. Pathways Into Natural Environments and Science (PINES) is TLC’s fellowship program with Knightdale High School that focuses on providing students with opportunities to experience nature and connection within the conservation career field. Last summer, we were able to offer three PINES internships, providing real-world job experience in an important area of our conservation work. Thanks to generous community support, TLC was able to expand to four intern positions this year and continue to support students with pathways into this field. 💙🌳Keep on the look out for more updates from our interns later this summer!

Around 200 people came together last weekend to celebrate TLC's second annual Land & Harvest Festival! 🌾 From fresh produce and beautiful flowers to handwritten poetry, hands-on activities in the Kids Corner, and opportunities to connect with local environmental organizations, the festival celebrated the people and partnerships that help our community thrive. 💐🌽 A huge thank you to everyone who joined us—and to our incredible farmers, vendors, volunteers, and partner organizations who helped bring this event to life. We can't wait to celebrate with you all again next year! 📷 by Jacob Moore (1,3,4,5,6) and Florencia Loncán (2,8)

What a weekend celebrating the power of partnership 💙🚲 Last month, we had a great time with Triangle Off-Road Cyclists (TORC), celebrating the new Brumley Bridge with group rides, inspiring remarks, and great company. Thanks to a generous $20,000 contribution from @torc_nc, along with the support of TLC donors, we’ve rebuilt a stronger bridge that will serve the community for years to come. Beyond this project, TORC volunteers contribute thousands of hours as trail stewards, helping monitor conditions, lead cleanups after major storms, and keep trails maintained at both Williamson and Brumley South. Their impact can be seen across TLC preserves through critical trail improvements and ongoing support managing trail access year-round. This project is a testament to what’s possible when we work together. Here’s to stronger trails, stronger connections, and many more miles ahead 🌿 #nationalbikemonth #trianglelandconservancy #landtrust

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