6 days ago
Land deal would preserve historic Guilford Woods for years to come, Guilford College says
GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) — A historic stretch of land on the campus of a Triad college will never be developed thanks to a new deal.
According to Guilford College, the college and Piedmont Land Conservancy have signed a 'memorandum of understanding' to pursue a conservation easement to permanently protect a large swath of Guilford Woods.
Guilford College Bryan Series to end after 20-year run
The easement would protect 120 acres of land on the Guilford College campus, including a tree known as the ',' a 300-year-old tulip poplar. This deal would ensure that this area, one of Greensboro's last undeveloped woodlands, according to the college, would never be developed, but would remain owned by the college.
PLC wants to fund the easement by raising $8.5 million, which would be available to the college by 2028.
'While the proceeds will not be factored in the current $5 million 'For the Good of Guilford' campaign that concludes June 30, the money will be important in Guilford's longer-term financial strategy,' the college writes.
The college states that this is an 'ideal solution' for the community and the college, who have 'long sought' a way to support the college and preserve Guilford Woods, which has ecological and historical value to the community.
'Guilford College is proud to be part of this partnership to preserve Guilford Woods,' said Guilford's acting president, Jean Bordewich. 'We are committed to ensuring this beloved Greensboro landscape remains protected and accessible for generations to come.'
'This is a win-win-win for PLC, Guilford College and the greater community,' said Mary Magrinat, incoming PLC board president and longtime community advocate. 'The land will be permanently protected, Guilford College will receive vital financial support for its programs, and the public will gain official access to pristine green space in a rapidly growing part of Greensboro.'
In 2017, the federal government recognized the land as one of the earliest documented sites of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, Guilford College states in their release.
This easement will connect to Julian and Ethel Clay Price Park, 100 acres that are also protected by PLC, linking it to Greensboro's existing trail network.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
