Yadkin River Quail Habitat Restoration Co-op (YRQHRC)

The Challenge: Reversing the Decline

The Northern Bobwhite Quail, once a staple of North Carolina’s agricultural landscape, has seen a dramatic population decline due to the loss of early-successional habitat. Modern farming often creates “hard edges” where crops meet dense forest, leaving quail chicks without the protective "bugging habitat" and open ground they need to forage and survive.

Our Geographic and Strategic Focus

The YRQHRC is concentrating its efforts in the Central Piedmont area of North Carolina, specifically within Rowan, Iredell, and Davie Counties. We are strategically partnering with landowners managing 100 acres or more to ensure restoration occurs at a scale capable of creating connected habitat corridors rather than isolated patches.

A Science-Based Restoration Model

Led by Chief Wildlife Biologist Nick Prough, who brings over 30 years of national conservation experience, the Co-op utilizes field-proven techniques tailored specifically to the Piedmont’s red clay soils. Our "Game Plan" transforms underutilized field edges into productive wildlife zones..

The Value Proposition for Landowners

We provide a targeted and efficient approach to land management, investing where it produces the highest return for wildlife without disrupting primary agricultural operations. Beyond ecological restoration, our participants can expect:

Visible Transformation: Increased insect and pollinator activity within 6–12 months.

Measurable Results: Increased quail sightings and nesting success within 1–2 years.

Asset Strength: Enhanced recreational and ecological property value through disciplined, long-term stewardship.

The YRQHRC is more than a conservation project; it is a replicable regional model designed to demonstrate that productive agriculture and thriving wildlife populations can coexist and flourish together.