CONSERVATION AGREEMENTS
Upstate South Carolina is a beautiful region of over 4,500 square miles, including Greenville, Spartanburg, Pickens, Anderson, Laurens, Cherokee and Oconee Counties. The Upstate's northernmost boundary is the spectacular Blue Ridge escarpment, where the land drops over 2,000 feet in less than two miles, creating a spectacular showcase of waterfalls, outcrops and vistas. Most of the region is located in the Piedmont province, an area of rolling hills, rich valleys and fast flowing rivers.
Over the last 25 years, the Upstate has transformed itself from a collection of sleepy Southern towns primarily dependent on the textile industry into a booming, diversified business center where such industrial giants as BMW, Michelin and Hitachi now operate major facilities. As a result, the Upstate is one of the fastest growing regions in the country. Over one million people now live in the region, and the population continues to grow at the rate of 42 additional persons per day. Every day at least 35 acres of land are converted to development.
Today, more than ever, the protection of what makes the Upstate such an important and special region depends on private property owners. Many of these owners are deeply troubled by the manner in which the region is growing and are seeking ways to preserve their lands. They do not want to see their property, which has often been in the family for several generations, turned into cookie-cutter subdivisions and strip malls. They are looking for other options.
The Land Trust Program of Upstate Forever is one option that the landowner should consider.
The cornerstone of this program is the conservation agreement. As a tax-exempt, non-profit organization, Upstate Forever is qualified -- and ready, willing and able -- to receive conservation agreements, also known as conservation easements that protect significant lands and resources in this area. We are also willing to discuss with landowners other methods for protecting the beauty and integrity of their properties.
Please click on the following links for more information on Conservation Agreements:
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conversation agreements | conservation
agreements:FAQ
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