Blog

Land Conservation

As more people are drawn to the Upstate’s natural beauty, the urgency grows to protect the working lands, forests, and green spaces that define our region.

Every acre matters, and each has a story. Discover a few below.

Rural land is disappearing: What's SC doing about it?

Rural land is disappearing: What's SC doing about it?
Allie Martinsen  |  July 5, 2023

Calling all land lovers! Land Policy Manager Allie Martinsen discusses the current state of rural land in South Carolina, preservation strategies, and the benefits of agritourism.

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25 Highlights from 25 Years

25 Highlights from 25 Years
May 10, 2023

These are just a few of the highlights that your support has made possible over the last 25 years

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Breaking news: Agreement reached with Norfolk Southern to purchase the Saluda Grade rail line

Breaking news: Agreement reached with Norfolk Southern to purchase the Saluda Grade rail line
March 16, 2023

Conserving Carolina; PAL: Play, Advocate, Live Well; and Upstate Forever are pleased to announce that an agreement with Norfolk Southern has been reached to sell the 31-mile rail line for use as a recreational rail trail.

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Heirs' Property is the Leading Cause of Black Involuntary Land Loss

Heirs' Property is the Leading Cause of Black Involuntary Land Loss
Elizabeth Swails  |  February 15, 2023

This Black History Month we are featuring The Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation located in North Charleston, SC, for their work that helps families protect and keep their family land, build generational wealth, and grow working landscapes.

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Local leaders share perspectives on conservation and economic development

Local leaders share perspectives on conservation and economic development
November 15, 2022

Community and business leaders from across the Upstate share their thoughts on the relationship between natural resource conservation and growth in the latest issue of the Upstate Advocate.

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Businesses thriving on conservation properties

Businesses thriving on conservation properties
November 11, 2022

From green burials, grass-fed beef farms, event venues and vineyards, local easement holders are proving how conservation and economic success work together in the Upstate

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The intersection of conservation & smart growth

The intersection of conservation & smart growth
Sherry Barrett  |  November 10, 2022

Land Policy Director Sherry Barrett reveals why it's imperative to embrace the symbiotic relationship between "traditional" conservation and land use planning and policy.

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Local funding is a key to conservation success

Local funding is a key to conservation success
Scott Park  |  November 8, 2022

Scott Park — UF's Glenn Hilliard Director of Land Conservation — explains why local funding for conservation is critical to the future of the Upstate's green spaces and natural resources.

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