The Land Trust for Central North Carolina has named Ethan Greene its first stewardship director. Greene will have the responsibility for overseeing the diverse properties held by The Land Trust which include more than 25,000 acres in 10 central North Carolina counties.

Darrell Hancock, Salisbury attorney and Land Trust board chair, said, “The creation of this position and the hiring of a professional of Ethan Greene’s impressive training is further evidence of the fact that The Land Trust fully appreciates its obligation to manage its properties so countless future generations have the full benefit and enjoyment of them. As the title implies, ‘stewardship’ is a primary responsibility.”

The Land Trust operates in a 10-county region – Anson, Cabarrus, Davidson, Davie, Iredell, Montgomery, Randolph, Richmond, Rowan and Stanly. Greene is a native of Montgomery County and grew up in Troy where he attended West Montgomery High School and roamed the Uwharrie mountains that help define the geography and character of the region.

Greene studied fisheries, wildlife and conservation biology at North Carolina State University and earned the B.S. degree in 2013. He continued with graduate work at Mississippi State University, where he has done extensive research on the effects of growing switchgrass biofuels within pine plantations on ecological biodiversity. His work within the state has included monitoring small mammal communities in Mocksville, researching white-tailed deer populations in Moore County, and helping restore natural landscapes in Pittsboro.

“As stewardship director at The Land Trust for Central North Carolina, I can address causes of ecological problems and not just the symptoms. The board, staff and The Land Trust’s amazingly generous supporters are deeply caring people dedicated to protecting the land, the ecology, the people, and the future of central North Carolina. It’s a privilege to be a part of this effort,” said Greene.

The Land Trust, whose leadership is comprised of a broad cross section of citizens from the 10-county region, offers reasonable, attractive options to landowners who want to save their lands for future generations to enjoy. Its mission is to work thoughtfully and selectively with property owners to preserve lands, vistas, key ecological elements, and the essential nature of the central North Carolina region as a legacy for future generations.