Project Description

Masonboro Island

Partnership with: Society of Masonboro Island and NC Coastal Reserve.

Masonboro Island is the largest undeveloped barrier island in southern NC. Home to nesting sea turtles and rare birds- this 8.5 mile long, approx 5,600-acre island is only accessible by boat – kayak, canoe, or motor. This property is part of the NC Coastal Reserve and Coastal Land Trust, among other conservation partners in the region, participates on the Local Advisory Committee to provide input regarding management of this undeveloped barrier island.

The history of saving Masonboro Island is a success story, that shows what a group of dedicated people can accomplish. To advocate for the conservation of the Island, a grassroots volunteer organization named the Society of Masonboro Island formed. With their concerted efforts in fundraising and advocacy, they successful protected the beautiful, pristine barrier island.  The Society of Masonboro Island merged into the Coastal Land Trust after the island was securely in conservation status to continue the mission of protecting private holdings on the island.  (Masonboro.org is a different group, they’re great, check them out!)

Learn more on the Coastal Reserve website

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