NC Couple Protects 211 Acres from Development Forever

Pat and Gene Holder receive offers to sell their land almost every week, but the retired couple has a different plan for their 211-acre sanctuary in Randolph County.

The Holders bought their property over a decade ago as a retirement adventure. They planted native species and watched as their land transformed into a thriving habitat for birds, bees, and butterflies.

As development surged across North Carolina's Piedmont region, the couple realized their slice of nature needed permanent protection. "Once it's paved over to build a parking lot or apartment complex, it's never going to be this again," Pat said.

The couple partnered with Three Rivers Land Trust to create a conservation agreement that keeps their land undeveloped forever. They still own the property, but the agreement ensures future owners can never develop it.

Their timing couldn't be better. Conservation groups across the Piedmont are experiencing unprecedented growth as more families discover the value of protecting green spaces.

Three Rivers Land Trust conserved 2,200 acres permanently in 2025, while Piedmont Land Conservancy protected 1,442 acres. Together, these two organizations have safeguarded over 80,000 acres across the region from Virginia to South Carolina.

The momentum isn't slowing down. Three Rivers already has 4,000 acres scheduled for conservation in 2026.

The Ripple Effect

The conservation boom reflects a broader shift in how North Carolina residents think about growth. Travis Morehead, executive director of Three Rivers Land Trust, says most landowners now reach out proactively to explore conservation options.

Gene understands why people lose sight of nature's importance. "I was one of those when I worked, I had no time for the outdoors," he said. Retirement opened his eyes to what matters.

The Holders emphasize they're not against development. They recognize new construction brings jobs, opportunities, and prosperity to the region.

But Pat reminds us that humans aren't the only inhabitants who matter. "We have a lot of other creatures that live here, too," she said.

Morehead believes protecting green spaces is essential to North Carolina's future appeal. "We can't lose the character of what makes people so attracted to North Carolina," he explained.

The conservation movement proves communities can embrace both growth and nature preservation, creating a future where parking lots and wildlife sanctuaries coexist instead of compete.