Smith Island Land Trust

The Smith Island Land Trust is a nonprofit organization working to acquire, preserve, and provide stewardship for historically and ecologically significant lands on the Smith Island Complex in North Carolina, USA for the benefit of current and future generations. SILT serves as the land preservation arm of the Bald Head Island Conservancy (BHIC), however the entities are separate 501(c) (3) organizations with separate Board of Directors and by-laws. Preserved land makes a significant difference to the future of Bald Head Island. SILT lots provide natural corridors for the island's many animal species, and a balanced ecosystem that encourages species diversity. Forests throughout the Smith Island Complex are used by more than 200 bird species as feeding and nesting grounds, or as stopovers during seasonal migrations. Undeveloped lots along the salt marsh provide food and protection for coastal marine fish, reptiles, shellfish, and birds. The ecosystem thrives in these natural areas and protects the incredible beauty of Bald Head Island for our future generations. All donations to the Smith Island Land Trust are tax deductible, and there are substantial benefits to donating land. Protected parcels in the maritime forest help ensure high-quality groundwater for the island’s drinking water supply. Natural lots along the salt marsh attenuate erosional currents and augment creek water quality. A healthy forest canopy provides a buffer against hurricane winds for Island infrastructure and its wildlife inhabitants. In more practical terms, a lot donated to the Smith Island Land Trust may also provide the donor with increased privacy, a protected view, and a natural storm barrier for their own home. Donors can reduce or eliminate property taxes, lower estate taxes, and potentially find savings on itemized income tax returns.