January 2023- December 2025
The project aims to restore and enhance the riparian buffer along the Flat River to improve water quality, reduce erosion, and prevent habitat degradation. The buffer will filter pollution, stabilize sediments, and maintain water temperature for aquatic life.
This area is critical as the Flat River is home to the threatened Neuse River Waterdog. The greenspace park will offer valuable recreational and educational opportunities for all residents, particularly in an underserved area lacking similar resources. Developing a greenspace not only meets these requirements but also provides environmental education through wildlife observation areas. The park will help control stormwater runoff, reduce nutrient load into a main drinking water source, and offer a public recreation area.
As the farmland is transformed into a greenspace park, underserved communities will benefit from:
- Improved water quality
- Reduced erosion and sediment runoff
- Enhanced wildlife and fish habitat
Location:
Person County
Partners:
- Person County Gov’t (Arts, Parks & Recreation Dpt, Planning Dpt, Soil & Water Conservation District)
- Person County Friends of the Park
Funding: $214,394
- NC Environmental Enhancement Grant (EEG), via NC Dpt of Justice
Piedmont Conservation Council 