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The Nature Conservancy, North Carolina

grant award: $299,994; year awarded: 2021

The Southern Blue Ridge ecoregion is one of the most biologically significant areas in North America, with tremendous species diversity in an unbroken network of forests. Over the past forty years, increased temperatures from climate change have extended the growing season, impacting water yields. Coupled with changes in timber management practices and increased pest prevalence, the forests have become dominated by mesic species, preventing advancement of oaks and pines in the canopy. TNC NC will use forest management practices such as prescribed fire, midstory and understory structural alterations and introduction of climate-adapted native species. These interventions, among others, will ensure forest resilience and increase floral and faunal diversity in the face of climate change.