• Mainspring Conservation Trust received $1.24 million to help buy a perpetual conservation easement on 104 acres of cropland in Cherokee County.

• Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy received grants for two properties in Haywood County. A $210,000 grant will help purchase a perpetual conservation easement on 215 acres of cropland and forestland, while a $125,000 grant will help buy a perpetual conservation easement on 155 acres of cropland and forestland.

In addition, the N.C. Foundation for Soil & Water Conservation received $114,000 to assist with purchase of equipment and supplies for a statewide program to improve pasture management, ensure farms are drought-resilient and provide conservation equipment to soil and water conservation districts.