Upstate Forever
Conservation Agreements

Jocassee Gorges

      Lucy Tiller and Georgia Mills Craig granted to Upstate Forever a conservation agreement on approximately 44 acres of undeveloped land that directly adjoin the Jocassee Gorges property, one of the most beautiful and ecologically significant areas in North America. The area is home to more than 2,000 species of plants and animals, including the largest population of black bear in the Southern Appalachians. A dozen streams plummet over some of the highest waterfalls in the Southeast and provide rich habitat for trout, including naturally reproducing brook trout. After granting the agreement, Mrs. Tiller and Mrs. Craig donated their property to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

"I'm sure there were a lot of developers interested in this property since it's right next to a wilderness area and just a stone's throw from Highway 178. It's a wonderful addition to the Jocassee property, and we are deeply grateful to Mrs. Tiller and Mrs. Craig for their generosity." Paul Sandifer, Executive Director, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources