On August 5, 2024, the New Hanover County commissioners decided to prioritize conservation on the west bank of the Cape Fear River, including Eagles Island. The commissioners were influenced by public input, with nearly 3,000 comments opposing intense development in favor of preserving natural spaces. They are exploring ways to compensate landowners through state and federal programs for conservation purposes, though concerns about potential lawsuits from private property owners were raised.

County staff initially proposed decreasing the land’s density due to frequent flooding and emphasized protecting the area’s historical and cultural significance. The decision marks a shift from the planning board’s recommendation to allow higher-intensity uses, showcasing the county’s commitment to long-term environmental and historical preservation.

This decision by the commissioners shifts the planning for Eagles Island Nature Park into high gear. We have established a board of directors and formed a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. Our work is based on a vision book describing Eagles Island’s history and proposing improvements to make the island more accessible to ecotourism. You can sign up for our quarterly newsletter and receive a PDF version of the vision book below.