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Resolution to Execute a Registry Agreement with the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to Further Protect and Preserve a Portion of the Natural Area Known as the South Wilmington Sandhills, Located within Halyburton Park
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Department: |
Parks & Recreation |
Meeting Date: |
10/21/2025 |
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Contact Name: |
Davina Bell |
Public Hearing: |
No |
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Contact Phone: |
910.341.0064 |
Advertising Date/Advertised By: |
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Attachments: |
Attachment #1: Resolution; Attachment #2: Exhibit A - Registry Map Description; Attachment #3: Registry Agreement; Attachments #4-8 Pictures of Halyburton Park/South Wilmington Sandhills |
PURPOSE:
This resolution authorizes the City Manager to execute a Registry Agreement with the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources for a portion of Halyburton Park.
BACKGROUND:
A portion of Halyburton Park, which is owned by the City of Wilmington and operated by the Parks and Recreation Department, contains a natural area known as the South Wilmington Sandhills, consisting of approximately 51 acres. That area possesses natural values, justifying its recognition by the State of North Carolina as an outstanding part of the natural heritage of North Carolina. This agreement formalizes the mutual understanding between the City of Wilmington and the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (“NCDNCR”) to protect outstanding examples of the natural diversity occurring in the state and to preserve unique and unusual natural features.
This agreement involves no change of title or loss of ownership rights, but simply expresses the sincere intentions of the City (as the landowner) to refrain from making or permitting changes that alter the natural values for which this area was registered within the boundaries outlined on the attached “Exhibit A” map and description. The North Carolina Heritage Program provides the following site-specific management recommendations for the registered area:
* Continue to utilize prescribed burning.
* Monitor visitor use and take actions as needed to direct foot traffic away from sensitive areas.
Areas to be excluded from the registry include the park facilities--visitor center, parking areas, and play areas/picnic shelter. The registry is for an indefinite period until terminated in writing by either party to the other upon thirty (30) days’ notice.
budget
BUDGET IMPACT:
N/A.
recommendation
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
Passage of the resolution is recommended.