[Joint news release with Triangle Land Conservancy]
The Walton Farm, one of the last large working farms in Raleigh, is now permanently protected through a conservation easement made possible by a partnership between Walton Farm LLC, Triangle Land Conservancy and Wake County. The easement ensures that Walton Farm’s valuable farmland, open space and wildlife habitat will be preserved forever.
“We are pleased to support the protection of Walton Farm, a significant piece of land that benefits both our local farming community and the environment,” said Donald Mial, vice chair, Wake County Board of Commissioners. “Made possible by the Wake County Soil and Water Conservation District Farmland Preservation program, this partnership ensures that the land will remain secure and valuable for future generations.”
Triangle Land Conservancy worked closely with the landowners, who have owned and farmed the land for more than 50 years. The area has been a high-priority candidate for TLC’s conservation efforts since it was established in 1983.
“Triangle Land Conservancy is thrilled to have a hand in protecting this key farmland and habitat corridor in a part of our region most at risk of development,” said Sandy Sweitzer, TLC executive director. “We are grateful for the generous landowners and partners like Wake County who make conservation like this possible.”
The Walton Farm, the largest remaining undeveloped property between Umstead State Park and Schenck Forest, features two headwater streams that flow into Richland Creek. The land is used for small-scale livestock operations, including goats, and nearly 90 percent of its soils are classified as prime or of statewide importance.
“My father, Russell C. Walton Jr., loved this land and worked hard to make sure it remained intact and free from development,” said Mary Walton, one of the landowners. “I think he would be really proud that we have managed to conserve this place forever.”
According to the American Farmland Trust, North Carolina ranks second in the country for projected farmland loss, and Wake County is one of the three most heavily impacted counties in the state for projected farmland loss.
Wake County contributed $1.1 million from its Deferred Agricultural, Horticultural and Forestlands Tax Reserve Fund to help purchase the easement. However, this project wouldn’t have been possible without a generous contribution from the landowner, who donated more than 85 percent of the easement value. Wake County’s funds covered the easement purchase and closing costs. Triangle Land Conservancy will hold and monitor the easement, while Wake County maintains enforcement rights to ensure the property is protected long-term.
This action supports Wake County’s Growth, Land Use, and Environment Goal 3: Protect 1,000 acres of green space, including open space, parks, greenways, farmland and forests by 2029.
