Handbook & Other Planning Resources

The Green Growth Toolbox Handbook provides guidance on how to incorporate conservation data and conservation science into land use and transportation planning. 

Cover of the 2025 Green Growth Toolbox handbook features a variety of wildlife and landscapes

The Green Growth Toolbox Handbook is a comprehensive guide to support local government staff and community members in understanding how concepts from conservation science and data resources can be applied to local and regional planning initiatives through policy and plan-making, ordinance development, and development review processes. The handbook is updated annually. 

Table of Contents

Section 1: Green Growth Benefits Communities

A comprehensive summary of how protecting natural areas in and around communities contributes to a higher quality of life, economic development, and climate resilience.

Section 2: Conservation Data

Guidance on the recommended GIS-based spatial data that should be used to guide land use and transportation planning.

Section 3: Habitat Conservation Recommendations

NC Wildlife Resources Commission’s official habitat conservation recommendations, based on scientific research. These can be applied to planning and development review to ensure that habitats are protected in developing communities.

Section 4: Green Planning

Recommendations and examples from communities on how to incorporate conservation data and science into plans, including comprehensive, land use, future land use, transportation, hazard mitigation, and parks and greenways plans.

Section 5: Green Ordinances & Incentives

Recommendations and examples from communities on how to incorporate conservation data and science into ordinances and incentives, including zoning, subdivision requirements, solar farms, wind towers, and development review processes.

Section 6: Green Development Review

A comprehensive summary of how protecting natural areas in and around communities contributes to a higher quality of life, economic development, and climate resilience.

Other Planning Resources to Support Wildlife Habitat Conservation

Habitat Conservation Recommendations 
CSI
Wildlife Action Plan
 

On This Page Jump Links
Off