Save the PH Craig Bolin Forest

The 77 acre "Craig Preserve" which PH Craig has protected and nurtured for 50 years, is potentially at risk because of his proposed woodland management plan to clear cut 45 acres. We are asking petitioners to request that he not proceed with this plan that would clear cut 45 acres, and instead, continue to protect this beautiful community resource, for the following reasons:

• The “woodland management plan” proposes to clear cut 45 acres within a larger 425 acre forest that is now conserved by UNC, Carrboro and Orange County through purchase, conservation easements, and development agreements.

• Clear cutting a mixed hardwood forest and replanting with Loblolly pines is not consistent with guidance in the 2003 “Biological Impairment in the Little Creek Watershed”. The assessment report prepared under the guidance of the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources identified this parcel and contiguous UNC land as ecologically significant and worth of preservation.

• The “Craig Preserve” is a favorite place to bird watch and contains one half mile of beautiful Bolin Creek. North Carolina foresters say its foot traffic is greater than that of Umstead State Park but this plan proposes to restrict public access.

• Bolin Creek is an impaired stream that requires special protection. Removing trees on hillsides could will diminish water quality if sediment enters the creek.

"• Friends of Bolin Creek has sought to purchase and conserve this forest and remains willing to do so. Short of an outright sale, a grant by the owner of a conservation easement to a local land protection organization such as Triangle Land Conservancy would generate significant economic benefits to the owner and many recreational benefits to the community.