Combining Conservation and Economic Development in Tyrrell County

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Funded with generous support from the NC Humanities Council and the NC Arts Council, Resourceful Communities is working in Tyrrell County to create a network of engaged citizens who support planning and policy decisions to protect Tyrrell County's “places that matter.” Using tools from community outreach to asset mapping, residents are now pursuing their common vision for Tyrell County’s future.

Waterfront and Visitor Center in Columbia, Tyrrell County

Summary

The Conservation Fund became involved in Tyrrell County after acquiring 110,000 acres to create the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. Working with the Fund's Resourceful Communities Program, Tyrrell County undertook a comprehensive strategic planning process that resulted in Vision 2000, a plan that focused on cultural and heritage tourism to revitalize the area. Results have been lasting, and Resourceful Communities continues to partner in the area through its Tyrrell Places Matter project, dedicated to inclusive asset mapping. This unique strengths-based approach helps identify sustainable economic opportunities for the county’s residents.

Challenge

Located in northeastern North Carolina, Tyrrell County is a study in contrasts. The county is endowed with an abundance of natural, cultural and historical resources, however, it remains one of the poorest counties in the state. Wetlands cover more than three-fourths of the county, and more than 90% of the county's land is considered unbuildable, leading to the failure of traditional economic development approaches. The county also suffers from significant social justice and economic inequities which it now strives to overcome.

Solution

To address the many economic, social and environmental challenges in Tyrell County, Resourceful Communities adopted a community engagement approach to build support for sustainable development efforts. Resourceful Communities facilitated community outreach and planning, specifically including community members who had not been involved in decision-making traditionally. Participants ranged from retired African-Americans to low-income residents and other minorities.

Results

Tyrrell County has experienced a broad range of successes:

Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge draws 34,000 visitors annually.
The Visitor Center, part of the county's strategic plan, invites tourists to stop and learn about the area as they are passing through on their way to the Outer Banks.
Tyrrell County Community Development Corporation, established with the support of Resourceful Communities, helps low-income residents start businesses, especially natural resource- and tourism-based efforts.
A result of community outreach and planning, the Tyrrell County Youth Corps employed 24 local youth to develop ecotourism infrastructure such as trails and plantings. Participants also received GED training and professional skills building.
Through its Tyrrell Places Matter project, which is dedicated to inclusive asset mapping, Resourceful Communities helps residents identify and map significant cultural, historical and environmental features. These assets are critical to developing a sustainable development plan to benefit the county and all its residents.