This article shares the history of DuPont State Forest, from when it was first established in 1996 to the legal battle that took place to preserve the forest we land and love today.
DuPont Recreational State Forest has an interesting history that involves several different phases and a lot of uncertainty over the years. We share the details below and as you’ll see, it’s quite interesting!
Make sure to check out and support Friends of DuPont Forest and read their detailed account for even more information.
The History Of DuPont State Forest
The Beginning Of DuPont State Forest
That land that makes up DuPont State Forest as we know it today was originally owned by DuPont chemical company. They shuttered their operations in the area in the 90’s and went on to sell the land to two buyers: the State of North Carolina and Sterling Diagnostic Imaging.
The state then established DuPont State Forest in 1996, but the remainder of the land faced a complex path before joining the protected area.
What’s interesting is that most of DuPont’s waterfalls were not originally part of the forest. In fact, Hooker Falls was the only waterfall in the Forest when it was originally acquired by the state.
The protection of the remaining iconic waterfalls (specifically Triple Falls, High Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls) was a hard-fought battle that spanned several years.
The Conservation Fight
In 1999, the Conservation Fund represented the State of North Carolina in a bid to acquire the 2200-acre waterfall tract.
Despite public pleas and offers from the State, Sterling Diagnostic Imaging insisted on a private sale process. The property sold to developer Jim Anthony of the Cliffs Communities for $6.35 million. The Conservation Fund’s bid falling short at $5.5 million.
The Potential Development of DuPont
Initial promises suggested plans to maintain the property as a private retreat. However, it soon became evident that there were plans to develop a massive residential community centered around the waterfalls. In fact, the covered bridge was built during this time as a part of the future development.
Local residents and environmental groups, including the Sierra Club and Friends of the Falls, rallied against the proposed development. Their efforts led to increased awareness and public pressure on the developer and state officials.
Eminent Domain and Preservation
In response to the public outcry and the threat of development, the State of North Carolina invoked eminent domain, acquiring the 2200-acre tract in 2000. This decisive action ensured the protection of the waterfalls and their surrounding natural beauty.
The successful preservation of these iconic landmarks stands as a testament to the power of community action and the importance of protecting natural resources.
