15A NCAC 12H .0204. REGISTRATION

(a)  A natural area shall become officially registered when a voluntary agreement to protect the site for its specified natural values has been signed by the owner and the Secretary, according to requirements of this Rule.  The owner shall be given a certificate signifying the inclusion of the area on the registry.

(b)  After the Secretary approves an area as eligible for registration, the Natural Heritage Program shall offer the owner or administering agency the opportunity of placing the designated part of the property on the registry in return for signing a non‑binding agreement (promise of intent) to manage the site for the protection of the significant natural elements.  Natural Heritage Area Registry status for an area shall become effective upon the signing of the letter of agreement by the Secretary and the landowner or administering agency.

(c)  In cases when an area recommended to the registry is administered by the Department, the Secretary shall have the decision of registering or not registering the area, upon receiving the recommendation of the management agency.  In cases when another public agency other than the Department is the administrator or owner of an area which is recommended to the registry, the registration will become effective upon the signing of the agreement by the Secretary and the responsible executive of the administering agency.

(d)  Upon signing of the agreement, the Department shall present the owner or administering agency with a certificate which indicates the area is a registered natural heritage area.  The owner or a competent volunteer shall be requested to report to the Natural Heritage Program at least once a year on the condition of the area.  The Natural Heritage Program shall maintain a file on each registered area that contains complete documentation, annual status report, and management reports.

(e)  The owner must be advised that it is his option to publicize the registration.

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 113‑3; 113‑8; 113A‑164.4; 113A‑164.5;

Eff. April 4, 1979;

Amended Eff. January 1, 1986.