Triangle Land Conservancy has protected another 602 acres of Johnston County wilderness along the Neuse River, adding wetlands, shoreline and trail potential to a fast-growing conservation corridor.

Johnston County opened its first county-run regional park Friday at 444 Matthews Road, unveiling pickleball courts, an ADA-accessible fishing pond and a picnic shelter.

NC State researchers found restored forest plus birdsong reduced stress more than other settings. The finding points to small, evidence‑based steps Raleigh can use to make parks and greenways more restorative.