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Common Ground Collaborative

CTNC and partners collaborate with local leaders to create economically and environmentally resilient communities.

North Carolina communities are experiencing more frequent and detrimental changes to our landscapes and communities. The places that are most vulnerable are also our most diverse communities with rich histories that are deeply rooted in North Carolina culture. Often areas where historical flooding and pollution occur are the towns and neighborhoods where people of color have had the opportunity to put down their roots. To protect people and property, we must address the growing impacts of our changing climate. 

Conservation provides solutions.

The Common Ground collaborative strives to break down silos between community economic development and conservation sectors at a time when the need for housing, workforce development, natural resource conservation, and flood management is absolutely critical.

CTNC and The Conservation Fund, along with NC State Coastal Dynamics Design Lab, and local governments in Princeville, Lumberton, and elsewhere, are committed to establishing projects and programs that are determined by and with local community leaders. By collaborating with partners in highly vulnerable communities to find solutions to flooding, soil erosion, drought, water contamination, rising sea levels, and wildfires – all made worse by our changing climate - we can protect the most diverse communities with rich histories that are deeply rooted in North Carolina culture.

Together, we can ensure all people find innovative conservation solutions to address community needs.

We are guided by these principles:

  • Breaking down silos between community economic development and conservation
  • Bringing together people and resources from federal, state, and local government; the public and private sectors; and policy and direct service work
  • Engaging communities as decision makers
  • Honoring the deep histories of race in North Carolina communities
  • Informing the conversation on (facilitating) long-term resilience planning

We are bringing everyone to the table to address these emerging challenges for our state. Let's build a new model for conservation by creating economically and environmentally resilient communities ready to weather any storm.