Discover how the Coastal Land Trust secured the South End of Topsail Beach, protecting vital habitats and ensuring its natural beauty for future generations.
In a monumental achievement for coastal conservation, the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust (Coastal Land Trust) has officially purchased the South End of Topsail Beach, also known as “The Point.” This acquisition marks a significant milestone in preserving one of the last remaining privately owned, undeveloped tracts on North Carolina’s barrier islands.
The purchase, finalized on April 29th, 2025, follows an ambitious yearlong fundraising campaign that raised nearly $8 million. As part of the transaction, a 1-acre section of the property—including the existing parking area and surrounding land—was sold to the Town of Topsail Beach, ensuring public access and local stewardship.
“This is a once-in-a-generation victory for conservation on the coast,” said Harrison Marks, Executive Director of the Coastal Land Trust. “We are deeply grateful to the partners, donors, and volunteers who made this possible.”
A Haven for Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to Banks Channel, the South End is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Its expansive dunes, estuarine wetlands, and maritime shrub forest provide critical habitat for loggerhead sea turtles, Wilson’s plovers, willets, and over 30 priority bird species. The rare coastal plant, seabeach amaranth, also thrives on its open beaches. Without protection, this unique ecosystem faced the growing threat of future development.
“This beautiful and beloved section of Topsail is now protected forever,” said Frank Braxton, Mayor of the Town of Topsail Beach. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Coastal Land Trust to ensure its natural beauty is preserved for future generations.”
A Collaborative Effort to Protect the Coast
The Coastal Land Trust launched its bold fundraising campaign in March 2024, rallying nearly 800 donors who contributed over $1.6 million. The project also received substantial support from major public funding sources, including grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) through Walmart’s Acres for America program, the North Carolina Land and Water Fund, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant programs.
“This project is a model for collaborative coastal conservation and an excellent example of the lasting benefits that Acres for America grants can provide to wildlife and communities,” said Chris West, Director of the Acres for America Program at NFWF.
To meet the contract deadline, the Coastal Land Trust secured a bridge loan, which will be repaid once grant funds are received. The organization will own and manage the property for up to a year before transferring it to the State of North Carolina’s Division of Coastal Management for long-term stewardship.
“We look forward to stewarding this unique site for the public’s enjoyment and the protection of irreplaceable wildlife habitat,” said Tancred Miller of the Division of Coastal Management. “Its natural and ecological value is extraordinary.”
Community Involvement and Next Steps
In the coming months, the Coastal Land Trust will collaborate with volunteers and partners, including Audubon North Carolina and local group Conserve the Point, to protect nesting bird habitats, remove debris, and lead educational beach walks. Those interested in volunteering can find more information at www.CoastalLandTrust.org/TopsailBeach.
About the NC Coastal Land Trust
Founded in 1992, the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust has protected over 91,000 acres of natural areas, working lands, and historic sites across the state. Through conservation, education, and the promotion of good land stewardship, the organization enriches North Carolina’s coastal communities.
Learn more at www.CoastalLandTrust.org.
