Ä¢¹½Av NC’s Policy Priorities for Birds in 2026
From conservation funding to wetlands protections to farmland loss, here are our top policy priorities for birds this year.
Ä¢¹½Av North Carolina is the voice for birds at the North Carolina General Assembly and across the state. For decades, Ä¢¹½Av has been improving conditions for migratory birds on the Atlantic Flyway, mobilizing our chapter network to advocate for things like native plants, and protecting the most important places for birds.
Ä¢¹½Av proudly seeks science-based, durable policy solutions that are developed in collaboration with a broad range of stakeholders that include other conservation organizations, landowners, farmers, and community-based organizations. We work with members of both parties to promote the protection of birds, the conservation of our state's biodiversity, and the right of all communities to live in a healthier world.
2025-26 State Policy Priorities
Ä¢¹½Av Members Advocate for Birds in Raleigh
Members met with more than 40 lawmakers to talk about the most important tools for protecting our state’s natural and cultural heritage.
Big Wins for Birds this Legislative Session in Raleigh
Ä¢¹½Av advocates took more than 2,000 actions for birds this year and mobilized in-person for Advocacy Day. Here’s everything we accomplished together.
Ä¢¹½Av Statement: NC General Assembly Makes Historic Investment in Farmland Conservation
NC Budget will help protect family farms and important bird habitat.
Meet the Team
Zach Wallace
Policy Director
Dana Sargent
Community Building Director
Brittany Salmons
Senior Communications Associate
Ben Graham
Senior Communications Manager, Carolinas and Mid-Atlantic
Stay Engaged with Ä¢¹½Av North Carolina
Ä¢¹½Av North Carolina will be keeping a close eye on our policy priorities throughout the year. Sign up to stay in the know.
Latest Policy and Advocacy News
2026 Advocacy Day Schedule
May 27, 2026 —
Everything you need to know for Advocacy Day on June 3
Advocacy Day 2026
March 23, 2026 —
Complete these steps now to confirm your participation in Ä¢¹½Av North Carolina’s 2026 Advocacy Day on Wednesday, June 3.
Proposed Wilmington Port Expansion is Bad News for Birds and People
October 23, 2025 —
The proposal would exacerbate erosion at nesting sanctuaries while providing no economic benefit.
How the Roadless Rule Protects North Carolina’s Forests and Birds
September 26, 2025 —
The Roadless Rule safeguards important public lands for people and birds; you can help save it.
Legislative Recap: Native Plants Progress, Clean Energy Regression
August 06, 2025 —
The inside scoop on what the NC General Assembly session means for birds.
Ä¢¹½Av Applauds New NC Wildlife Action Plan 
July 16, 2025 —
Thorough, science-based plan highlights opportunities to protect species and habitat.
Meet Dana Sargent, Our New Community Building Director
June 23, 2025 —
The newest member of our team will partner with chapters to advance bird-friendly policy and conservation projects.
Ä¢¹½Av Statement: NC Bill Includes Bird-friendly Native Plant Policies
June 11, 2025 —
Senate Bill 391 includes native plant policies that build on years of grassroots advocacy.
Ä¢¹½Av Members Flock to the NC Legislature for Advocacy Day
May 12, 2025 —
Members met with more than 50 lawmakers to speak up for birds and people.
NC Bill Would Give Protections to Family Farms
March 18, 2025 —
Senate Bill 317 would help family landowners maintain control of their land and access conservation programs.
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