15A NCAC 12H .0301. OBJECTIVES OF DEDICATION

(a)  The State may accept the dedication of nature preserves on lands deemed by the Secretary to qualify as outstanding natural areas, based on the criteria of eligibility as stated in Rule .0202 of this Subchapter.  The owner of a qualified natural area may dedicate a nature preserve by transferring fee simple title or other interest, estate, or right in his land, or portion thereof, to the State.  Dedicated nature preserves may be acquired by gift, grant, or purchase.  The Secretary may recommend to the Governor and Council of State, through the Director of the Office of State Property in the Department of Administration, that an area be dedicated as a nature preserve.  Dedication of a preserve becomes effective only upon acceptance of articles of dedication by the Governor and Council of State.  Articles of dedication shall be recorded in the county(ies) in which the nature preserve is located, in the Office of State Property, and in the office of the Natural Heritage Program.

(b)  Preserves, created by dedication, are declared to be at their highest and best use for public benefit, by serving one or more of the following public purposes:

(1)           Contribute to the growth and development of public understanding of and empathy for natural systems, and the consequent development of public understanding for the interdependence of all forms of life and vital dependence of the health of the human community on the health of other natural communities.

(2)           Provide sites for scientific research and examples for scientific comparison with more disturbed sites.

(3)           Provide sites for educational activities and places where people may observe natural biotic resources and environmental systems.

(4)           Provide habitat for the survival of rare plants or animals or natural communities or other significant biological features.

(5)           Provide opportunities for contemplation or outdoor recreation compatible with the protection of the natural area.

(6)           Provide places for the preservation of natural beauty.

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 113A‑164.4; 113A‑164.6;

Eff. August 30, 1980;

Amended Eff. January 1, 1986; October 1, 1984.