Dear RDU Forest supporters - As 2024 comes to a close, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for being a vital part of the Umstead community. Whether through volunteering, donating or attending hikes and events, your involvement has played a crucial role in helping us protect the Park we all love.
This year, we’ve made meaningful progress in preserving Umstead’s natural integrity and ensuring it remains a welcoming haven for all. Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited to share the plans we have in store (more on that below).
As we close out the year, I invite you to consider a year-end donation to help us continue this important work.
The Umstead Coalition is the only nonprofit dedicated to supporting Umstead State Park. As a volunteer-led organization, 100% of your donations go to support the Park, ensuring that your generosity has a direct and lasting impact.
I look forward to seeing you at our First Day Hike in Umstead tomorrow on New Year's Day or at another one of our upcoming events! Once again, thank you for your ongoing support of our beloved Park.
Regards,
Dr. Jean Spooner, Chair, The Umstead Coalition
Ongoing #StopRDUQuarry Advocacy Efforts
Fight Against the RDU Quarry
We’re continuing our efforts to stop the proposed RDU Quarry. After years of attempts by Wake Stone to delay our case in court, their efforts have failed. We’ve held contested trials to restore the Sunset Clause and are awaiting the judge’s ruling. A contested trial for the quarry permit on the Odd Fellows Tract is also expected next year. The next step is a January 13 hearing on our bridge appeal at Wake County Superior Court (delayed from last month). With your continued support, we will win and protect our Park!
Support for Lake Crabtree County Park
We’re also advocating for Lake Crabtree County Park and its natural forested bike/pedestrian trails. RDUAA will be holding a public forum (date TBD, but likely by the end of January) to discuss ideas for converting 148 acres of forested mountain bike trail into commercial development "compatible" (word used by the RDUAA Board members) with other sections of Lake Crabtree County Park. RDUAA aims to generate revenue for RDU with this development, but we’re confident the public will have a lot to say and plenty of suggestions!
Thank You for Your Continued Support! Donate now
*Image credit: Amber Anderson