2011 North Carolina General Statutes
Chapter 153C Uwharrie Regional Resources Act.
153C-1. Short title; findings; purpose.

153C‑1. Short title; findings; purpose.

(a) Short Title. This Chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Uwharrie Regional Resources Act."

(b) Findings. The General Assembly finds that:

(1) The beauty and abundant natural resources of the Uwharrie region of North Carolina are prized by all North Carolinians. Millions of tourists travel to the Uwharrie region of North Carolina to see and experience the natural beauty of the region, including: the vistas near Uwharrie National Forest and Morrow Mountain State Park; scenic lakes and rivers including Badin, High Rock, and Tuckertown Lakes, and the Uwharrie, Yadkin, and Pee Dee Rivers; as well as nearby attractions, including the North Carolina Zoological Park and the Seagrove area potteries. This tourism is vitally important to this region of the State.

(2) The federal government recognized the natural abundance and cultural heritage of this region of North Carolina by purchasing tens of thousands of acres of land and designating it the Uwharrie Reservation during the Great Depression. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed these lands the Uwharrie National Forest.

(3) The same beauty and natural abundance that is valued by North Carolina residents, tourists, and the federal government is being adversely affected by natural asset uses that are negatively impacting the value and public's enjoyment of the important regional assets of the region.

(4) The region is subject to profound economic challenges and pressures due to a loss of manufacturing and industrial activities in recent years. Local governments face challenges as they adapt to new and difficult changes to the landscape.

(c) Purpose. It is the purpose of this Chapter to encourage quality growth and development while preserving the natural resources of the Uwharrie region of North Carolina. (2010‑176, s. 1.)