We can't stop growth from happening across the Upstate, but we can help shape the policies that affect our daily lives. Smart land use policies and thoughtful planning can help create a more resilient, equitable, and vibrant future for the Upstate.
See what’s taking shape below.
As 2024 comes to a close, we're pausing to celebrate the many conservation and advocacy successes this year has brought. Here's a look at just a few highlights of our work this year — made possible by your generous support...
City of Greenville Planning Commissioner Pamela Adams recounts the fight to save the Dr. E.E. McClaren Medical Shelter in the West End of Greenville.
Upstate Forever and local partners that comprise the Reedy River Water Quality Group (RRWQG) and other clean water advocates have aggressively championed adoption of stronger riparian buffer requirements in Greenville County for well-over a decade. We are thrilled to see 50' wide riparian buffers now required for new development along all Waters-of-the-State in unincorporated parts of the county.
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.
Clean Water Specialist Rebecca Wade explains how stormwater from development and human activity can cause problems for urban waters — and ways you can help protect local waterways.
Land Policy Manager Allie Martinsen explores ways that many communities are successfully addressing negative development impacts through effective, low-cost nature-based solutions.
Land Policy Manager Allie Martinsen shares one strategy that could help to guide and shape growth to enhance the character of rural, suburban, and urban places like Spartanburg.
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.
Greenville, SC
507 Pettigru Street
Greenville, SC 29601
Spartanburg, SC
900 S. Pine St, Ste 1B
Spartanburg, SC 29302
