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.

Meet the Team: Land Conservation Operations Coordinator Laura Smith

Meet the Team: Land Conservation Operations Coordinator Laura Smith
February 20, 2024

Get to know Upstate Forever's Land Conservation Operations Coordinator Laura Smith through a few rapid-fire questions.

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The City of Clemson puts sustainability at the forefront of conservation efforts

The City of Clemson puts sustainability at the forefront of conservation efforts
December 4, 2023

Check out our recent Q&A with Clemson Mayor Robert Halfacre and City Urban and Park Land Management Director Tony Tidwell. They explain some new sustainability projects and other initiatives already underway in Clemson, including Berkeley Orchard, the "Grow a Greener Clemson" campaign, the Monarch USA accreditation, and establishing Clemson as a Certified National Wildlife Habitat.

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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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