Original Air Date: Aug. 3, 2006

Conservation groups say development consumes an average of 383 acres of land a day in North Carolina, adding up to well over 100,000 acres a year.

Growth might be good for the state’s economy, but many people are worried about the loss of open, green space that helps protect water and air quality and provides opportunities for recreation, including hiking, hunting and fishing.

Many agree that growth and development will continue, so the question is how to manage it so that North Carolina can preserve the open, green space that makes it such a great place to live. Focal Point: "Green Acres" explores that question and the impact of development on quality of life.

Watch the Documentary

Part 1: The rapid pace of development is easy to see and is encroaching on many people and places across North Carolina.

Part 2: Sprawling development is not limited to the busy urban areas of North Carolina. It's also happening in places we go to escape the busy urban environment.

Part 3: Some say higher density and mixed-use development will help slow the suburban sprawl that consumes public resources and open space.

Part 4: The key to preserving open, green space for future generations might lie with private landowners.

Online Resources

• North Carolina Million Acres Initiative
• Land for Tomorrow
• Triangle Land Conservancy
• Conservation Trust of North Carolina
• Environment North Carolina

Web links are provided for informational purposes only. Views and opinions expressed on the Web sites of these organizations do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of WRAL-TV and its parent company, Capitol Broadcasting Co.