We are proud to share with you the latest issue of the Upstate Advocate, our twice-yearly print publication. Below, read the letter from Executive Director Aldon Knight introducing this issue, in which we celebrate the rare and wonderful flora and fauna that call this region home, in addition to sharing the latest news and information about our conservation and advocacy initiatives.

Click here to read a digital copy of the Spring/Summer 2025 issue of the Upstate Advocate

The Upstate is a rare gem.

This corner of the world is awash in natural wonders. It's a beautiful, intricate tapestry of ecosystems, species, and landscapes — all of which are integral to the health of our environment and our overall quality of life. You can read all about them in this issue of the Upstate Advocate.

But first, I'd like to focus on something else that makes the Upstate so truly remarkable — the people. Folks around here are warm, resourceful, thoughtful, and resilient, even in the face of challenges or uncertainty.

I'd like to especially thank Dennis Chastain and Glenis Redmond for their contributions to this publication. Dennis is a wealth of knowledge about the natural world, and a born storyteller. He and his wife Jane are pillars of the Pickens community, and I was relieved to hear that they are safe and sound after the Table Rock complex fires earlier this spring.

As for Glenis, she and I go way back to the tiny town of Due West, SC, where we both attended Erskine College. Glenis is now a celebrated author and the City of Greenville's inaugural poet laureate, and we were thrilled when she agreed to honor us with a poetry reading at this year's ForeverGreen Luncheon.

I'll end with an exciting announcement: thanks to your support, we have officially closed the Generations Campaign at $8.7 million — 25% above our initial goal! Many thanks to our Campaign Steering Committee, especially co-chairs John Bauknight and Christie Nachman, who dedicated countless hours to this effort. Read more here.

I'm constantly humbled and inspired by our supporters and partners as we work together to enhance our beautiful region. If you're reading this, that includes you.

Thank you, and be well.

Aldon Knight
Executive Director
Upstate Forever

Click here to read a digital copy of the Spring/Summer 2025 issue of the Upstate Advocate