Share / View as a webpage

Stay Connected with Sampson County! ⛄❄️

Pondberry Bay Trail Open in Sampson County

Opened in November 2025, the Pondberry Bay Trail is the first publicly accessible natural surface trail in Sampson County. As it winds its way through the Pondberry Bay Plant Conservation Preserve near Roseboro, it traverses longleaf pine forests in all stages from seedlings to mature trees, along with a few areas of bottomland hardwood forests. Eventually, it will connect through as part of the permanent route of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, but for now it is open as a 5.5-mile out-and-back trail with loop, or “lollipop trail.”

The Pondberry Bay Trail is open during daylight hours from Friday at sunrise through Sunday at sunset. The only public access location to the Pondberry Bay Preserve is the trailhead at 20 Straw Den Lane, Roseboro, NC, off White Woods Rd. at N34.97538°, W78.47121°. Entering the preserve from any other point or at any other times will be considered trespassing.

For more information about the route and the preserve, click the More button below.

Sampson County Water System Sign Up for Harrells Hwy Residents

Application for Sampson County Water System - Harrells Hwy residents has opened! The project duration is from November 17, 2025 to January 15, 2026.

Click the More button to view more details about how to apply.

Important Update about Low Income Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)

Due to the delay in receiving this notice, Sampson County Departments of Social Services will not be able to accept new applications for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) on December 1, 2025.

Important Resources for Severe Weather

Severe weather may be on the way, so now is the time to stay alert and prepared. Keep up to date with the County’s resources for power outages, travel conditions, and emergency preparedness to ensure you and your family remain safe and informed.

Decorative Light Safety Tips

Untangling holiday lights is a challenge but making sure they're safe isn't! Before you string them up, check for frayed wires or broken bulbs. We want your home to be full of holiday cheer, not electrical fire hazards.

Information source: NC Emergency Management

Board of Commissioners Meeting Recap

Upcoming Events and Activities

Monthly Healthy Recipe

Brought to you by our NC Cooperative Extension - Sampson County Center, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent Sydney Knowles. Eating well is key to feeling your best and supporting long-term health. Each month, Mrs. Knowles will share a simple, nutritious recipe to help you make healthier choices that fit your lifestyle.

Pistachio Cranberry Brussels Sprouts

           Looking for a tasty dish to bring to your holiday gathering? This recipe is one I have made many times in our Cooking Under Pressure workshop that teaches participants how to use an electric pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot). They’re super quick, easy, and are always a crowd pleaser. If you don’t own an electric pressure cooker, you could easily throw the shallots and brussels sprouts in the oven to roast at 395ºF for 15-20 minutes, then continue with step 2 in the directions. If you’re interested in attending any of our workshop, make sure you’re following us on Facebook or signed up for our email list.

Pistachio-Cranberry Brussels Sprouts

From the American Heart Association’s Instant & Healthy Cookbook

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 small shallots, diced
• 1 pound, 4 ounces brussels sprouts, trimmed and loose outer leaves discarded
• ½ cup water
• 1/3 cup unsweetened dried cranberries
• ¼ cup shredded or grated parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted pistachios, coarsely chopped

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in the pressure cooker on sauté. Cook the shallots for 2 to 3 minutes, or until soft, stirring frequently. Turn off the pressure cooker. Add the brussels sprouts and water. Secure the lid. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Quickly release the pressure. Turn off the pressure cooker.
2. Stir in the cranberries. Let stand, covered, for 2 minutes. Spoon the brussels sprouts mixture into a serving bowl. Sprinkle with the parmesan and pistachios.

Adopt a Pet

Meet Storm

Storm is a four-year-old grey retriever–Labrador mix. He is calm and incredibly sweet. He absolutely loves attention and would be happiest getting lots of pets and affection. He is also quiet and doesn’t bark very much.

Available to adopt at Sampson County Animal Shelter

Visitation Hours

Monday - Friday
1:00 PM to 5:00 PM

168 Agriculture Place, Clinton, NC

Shelter Office: 910-592-8493

Apply to be part of Sampson County Government today!

Sampson County Job Opportunities

Sampson County Government is an equal opportunity employer.