Preserving Haywood's Rural Character

The best way to preserve Haywood County’s rural character is to offer an option for farmers other than selling out to developers. This was a frequent issue I heard about while gathering petition signatures and hosting focus groups.

A conservation easement can provide a voluntary option for farmers who need retirement funds or  farm improvements to increase profitability.  By selling the “development rights,” a landowner continues to own the property to farm or pass it on to family members. A permanent deed restriction on the land will ensure the property forever remains for farm use, thus securing a community food supply for generations to come.

North Carolina and Haywood County have facilitated farmland preservation, but recent changes now require matching funds, something we lack. That’s why my campaign is working with a group to establish a private fund where tax-deductible donations can be accepted to help purchase development rights.

Between 2020-2025, Haywood lost more than 6,000 acres to development, and between January and July, 2026, 947 acres has been converted for development. 

It’s time to take this issue seriously to preserve the farms and woodlands that are the essence of Haywood rural character. This will ensure there are places where a vibrant agriculture community can continue to enrich our economy — and provide places so secure our local food supply for generations to come.

We’re hoping the fund will be up and running at the end of  next year. Note: Nothing within this effort has cost county taxpayers a dime.