Payne’s Branch Permanently Protected in North Carolina

FORSYTH COUNTY, N.C. — A partnership among The Conservation Fund, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC), the National Wild Turkey Federation, and Wildlife Habitat Foundation has ensured that a key natural landscape straddling Forsyth and Stokes counties in North Carolina will be permanently protected and accessible to nature enthusiasts and hunters.  

After acquiring and temporarily holding the 209-acre property along Payne’s Branch, The Conservation Fund has transferred ownership to the WRC, ensuring it will deliver wildlife-associated recreation, economic and environmental benefits to nearby Rural Hall and other underserved communities in the area for years to come. 

“While Payne’s Branch is relatively small, it’s a natural jewel that protects nature and provides an economic boost at the same time,” said Guenevere Abernathy, The Conservation Fund’s North Carolina State Director. “Conserving the property not only protects it from being destroyed by development, but it also supports the economies of surrounding communities by creating recreational opportunities for nature lovers, hunters and others from across the region, including nearby Winston-Salem.” 

The forested property includes over a mile of stream frontage along Payne’s Branch, with scenic rock outcroppings and a small cascading waterfall that is unusual in Forsyth County. It is in an area under high interest for development that has already experienced extensive fragmentation of the natural landscape and wildlife habitats. 

“Acquisition of the Paynes Branch property accomplished a goal of the Agency’s Land Acquisition and Property Committee, to establish new game lands in areas of the state that lack public access opportunities for hunting, trapping, fishing and other wildlife associated recreation,” said WRC Assistant Chief and Land Acquisition Manager, Ben Solomon. “WRC is excited to establish this property as a new game land in Forsyth County. The property will be open to the public once the game land enrollment process is complete.”  

“The Forsyth County Commissioners view this Payne Branch conservation project as an additional recreational area for citizens to enjoy,” said Don Martin, chair of the Forsyth County Commission. “After walking the property, I believe all visitors would agree that it is a beautiful piece of property.” 

Securing the Payne’s Branch property for permanent conservation was made possible by financial support from organizations including the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Forsyth County, the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Wildlife Habitat Foundation and Fred and Alice Stanback. 

“The NC State Chapter of NWTF and NC Wildlife Habitat Foundation are proud to support the protection of Paynes Branch,” said N.C. Wild Turkey Federation Chapter President, Howard Rumfelt. “Projects like this are vital for preserving wildlife habitat, expanding public access, and ensuring future generations can enjoy North Carolina’s rich hunting and outdoor heritage. This partnership exemplifies what we can accomplish when conservation organizations and agencies work together towards a common goal.” 

“The North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation greatly values our partnerships with the National Wild Turkey Federation and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission,” said N.C. Wildlife Habitat Foundation Operations Director, Beau Bethea. “The Paynes Branch Tract Acquisition is so important because this project provides increased public access to deer and turkey hunting opportunities in our state.” 

About The Conservation Fund
The Conservation Fund protects the land that sustains us all. We are in the business of conservation, creating innovative solutions that drive nature-based action in all 50 states for climate protection, vibrant communities and sustainable economies. We apply effective strategies, efficient financing approaches, and enduring government, community and private partnerships to protect millions of acres of America’s natural land, cultural sites, recreation areas and working forests and farms. To learn more, visit www.conservationfund.org. 

About the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission   
Since 1947, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state’s fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use and public input. NCWRC is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities.