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A rare stand of old-growth forest, with trees approaching 400 years of age, has been identified on a newly protected 1,513-acre mountain tract acquired by the Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina. The discovery was made during a biological survey of land surrounding Mike Mountain, now being added to the conservancy’s Pinnacle Mountains Preserve in Rutherford County.

Restoration work is set to begin soon at the Poplar Boat Launch, an important access point to the Nolichucky River located within the Pisgah National Forest. The project is a partnership between the U.S. Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation, aimed at rebuilding the launch after it sustained significant damage during Hurricane Helene.

Good news for Western North Carolina residents who rely on firewood to heat their homes: permit-free firewood collection for personal use has been extended through December 2026 on the Pisgah National Forest.

This is one of the most important questions to ask when buying rural land—especially if public sewer isn’t available. The short answer? You don’t truly know for sure until the county signs off on it. And that’s exactly why this topic deserves some attention before you move forward with a purchase.

The North Carolina Forest Service is sounding the alarm after reporting a sharp increase in wildfire activity across the state. In December 2025 alone, North Carolina experienced 724 wildfires on state and private lands, a 32% increase compared to December 2024

Good forestry doesn’t just grow healthy forests—it protects the water that runs through them. That commitment to balance and stewardship is exactly why North Carolina Forest Service Warren County staff have been named recipients of the 2025 Moreland Gueth Water Quality Award, one of the Forest Service’s highest honors related to water resource protection.

The N.C Forest Service has announced its Summer 2026 paid internship opportunities. Learn about available forestry internships, pay rates, locations, and how to apply before the 1/30 deadline.

If you’ve been looking for your own piece of North Carolina countryside — whether to build a home, start a small farm, or simply invest in rural land — the Keeton Road Lots in Vance County offer just that.

Selecting the perfect Christmas tree is a holiday tradition that brings families together year after year. In North Carolina, that tradition has deep roots, literally.

The North Carolina standing timber market through the first three quarters of 2025 delivered a clear message to landowners: value is shifting from low-grade trees to high-quality sawtimber.

Southern Veneer will close its Moncure, NC, plant in December, cutting 130 jobs amid a construction slowdown affecting Carolina forestry.

Conservation efforts are gaining momentum in western North Carolina as Conserving Carolina has secured 49 acres on the east side of Lake Lure, setting the stage for future sections of the planned Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail.