Quickfacts:
- Objectives of the restoration project were to:
- Safeguard Rare Species & Habitats: NCNHP data indicated the presence of the significantly rare Riverweed Darter, endangered Green Floater, and the nationally significant Dan River Aquatic Habitat.
- Prevent Private Property Flooding: Eden has purchased adjoining properties due to repeat flooding and been awarded CDBG funds for additional buyouts. This project prevented another buyer from building on the upland, adding impervious surface, and likely being flooded.
- Contribute To Eden’s Recreation Economy: Visitors from outside Rockingham County can easily access Eden’s main street after paddling on the Dan River Paddle Trail or birdwatching, walking or biking on the site. According to the Great State Trails Coalition, every $1.00 of trail construction generates $1.72 annually from local business revenue and sales tax.
April 2025 – Present
The Eden Acquisition project aims for the City of Eden to extend its greenway by purchasing 76.86 acres from a local landowner, which will extend two greenway (Matrimony Creek & Dan River) spurs. In the near future, the public will be able to access the greenways and the Dan River from multiple points on the new trail. The purchase and conservation easement assists the City to the conserve the riparian corridor, protect vital source water resources, and sustain rare species. Furthermore, Eden granted a 300 foot riparian buffer on adjacent city-owned properties for contiguous riparian buffer protection.
Location:
- 76.86 acres along Matrimony Creek and the Dan River, just upstream of Eden’s drinking water intake, in Rockingham County.
Partners:
- City of Eden
- Rockingham County Tourism Development Authority
- Dan River Basin Association
- Piedmont Land Conservancy
- Piedmont Triad Regional Council
Funding: $336,175
- NCLWF – $311,675.00
- Reidsville Area Foundation: $24,500.00 (public engagement for greenway expansion)
- In Kind Matching Funds:
- City of Eden: $83,790.00