Bertie County’s wild beauty just got a little bigger.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has announced the addition of 174 acres to the Bertie County Game Lands with the purchase of the Gaskins Swamp Tract. This exciting expansion, made possible through a partnership with the N.C. Coastal Land Trust and Ducks Unlimited, reinforces what locals already know: Bertie County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Funding for the acquisition came from the North Carolina Land and Water Fund, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s North American Wetlands Conservation Act, and the Enviva Forest Conservation Fund—an investment in conservation that benefits both wildlife and the people who love to experience the outdoors.
The newly protected Gaskins Swamp Tract is home to a diverse range of species, including the vibrant prothonotary warbler—often called the “swamp canary” for its bright golden coloring and love of wetland habitats. Bottomland hardwood forests and swamp ecosystems like these are critical to migratory birds and native wildlife, and they offer a glimpse into the natural landscapes that define eastern North Carolina.
With the property now enrolled in the Game Lands Program, it is officially open to the public for hunting, fishing, trapping, and other wildlife-related recreational activities.
The addition of this tract underscores something special about life in Bertie County: access to nature isn’t limited to a weekend trip—it’s a way of life.
From the Cashie and Roanoke Rivers to expansive farmland, forests, and wetlands, this region offers:
Premier hunting and waterfowl opportunities
Fishing in scenic, uncrowded waters
Birdwatching along quiet backwaters
Kayaking and exploring blackwater creeks
Seasonal wildlife observation across diverse habitats
Whether you’re casting a line at sunrise, scouting deer in the fall, or paddling through still waters under a canopy of cypress trees, Bertie County delivers authentic, unspoiled outdoor experiences.
Projects like the Gaskins Swamp acquisition do more than protect land—they preserve a heritage. Outdoor recreation has long been part of the fabric of this region, supporting local economies, traditions, and family experiences that span generations.
For residents of Occano, access to conserved land and world-class natural resources is part of what makes this community so distinctive. The expansion of the Bertie County Game Lands ensures that these experiences will continue for years to come.
As conservation efforts expand and partnerships strengthen, Bertie County’s outdoor future looks bright—174 acres brighter, to be exact.
To read more details about the acquisition, visit the full article here: https://wcti12.com/news/local/174-acres-added-to-bertie-county-game-lands-with-purchase-of-gaskins-swamp-tract
Enter your email address and we will send you a link to change your password.