Lake Norman, NC Celebrates Certification as a Community Wildlife Habitat

On Saturday, October 22nd, the Lake Norman Wildlife Conservationists, a chapter of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, celebrated becoming the nation’s 55th Certified Community Wildlife Habitat and the third community in North Carolina to receive this honor.

The Lake Norman project was called “Wild over LKN” and was unique in its organization and breadth.  The Lake Norman team of volunteers worked with all eight towns surrounding the lake (Davidson, Sherrills Ford, Cornelius, Denver, Huntersville, Troutman, Terrell and Mooresville) to create habitat gardens in homes, schools and community sites. It was the first time that a large body of water and its surrounding towns became a certified Community Wildlife Habitat.

In addition, the Lake Norman Wildlife Conservationists created osprey platforms and turtle basking platforms around the lake and worked with Duke Energy to better protect the many islands on the lake.
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The gala celebration and certification ceremony took place at the North HarborClub in Davidson on a beautiful evening with the fall colors just beginning their appearance.  Guests attending the gala/fundraiser were treated to an endless array of appetizers, while watching the sun set over the lake.  After moving indoors, the carving stations provided more temptations.

Mayor John Woods of Davidson and Mayor Jeff Tarte of Cornelius were on hand to receive the Certificates of Exceptional Merit for Lake Norman’s achievement. Project leader Don West and his team of dedicated volunteers accepted small gifts from the National Wildlife Federation and the applause of all the guests for their remarkable efforts on behalf of Lake Norman’s abundant wildlife.

Here’s a video from a local North Carolina news station about another certification process in the area: