North Raleigh Today

The N.C. Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve, part of the Division of Coastal Management in the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality, held a dedication ceremony for Bald Head Woods Reserve. This event marked the site's inclusion in the Old-Growth Forest Network in late January 2025. Attendees included staff and representatives from the Old-Growth Forest Network, as well as local, state, and community partners who participated in speeches and a guided hike.

Bald Head Woods Reserve is a 191-acre area within the Coastal Reserve, incorporated into the program in 1993 to preserve its maritime forest and interdune swale communities permanently. The site is located centrally on Bald Head Island and features large live oak trees forming an intricate canopy system.

“Maritime forests in N.C., like Bald Head Woods Reserve, are a rare and declining habitat in the state, so it is important to recognize and study these forests and build strong partnerships to work to protect them,” said Elizabeth Pinnix, Coastal Reserve Southern Sites Manager. She also noted that "the forest and habitats of the Bald Head Woods Reserve are also protected as a state nature preserve dedicated by the N.C. Natural Heritage Program."

Rebecca Ellin, N.C. Coastal Reserve Manager, commented on their mission: “The N.C. Coastal Reserve is fortunate to be entrusted with the protection and preservation of ecologically important habitats on our coast. We appreciate the local partnerships and recent dedication from the Old-Growth Forest Network that support our management of the Reserves and promote stewardship of these natural areas.”

The Old-Growth Forest Network aims to protect old-growth native forests across generations for biodiversity conservation; this designation aligns with Bald Head Woods' status as both a Coastal Reserve and Dedicated Nature Preserve.

Dan Camacho from Old-Growth Forest Network stated: “Showcasing this forest in the Network is an invitation to others to see what is ecologically possible. Less than one percent of old-growth forests remain in the eastern US.” He emphasized that such forests offer insights into ecological potential while serving as tools for sustaining biodiversity and combating climate change.

Nick Sanchez, Network Manager for Old-Growth Forest Network added: "We're honored to welcome this exceptional old forest in the national Network, the 5th recognized to-date in North Carolina.” He extended gratitude towards those protecting this area daily.

Bald Head Woods Reserve becomes recognized as the 277th forest within this network which spans 39 states including four other sites in North Carolina.