Happy Days: Inside the latest issue of the Upstate Advocate

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, which shares quick and easy day trip ideas across the Upstate, 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 2026 issue of the Upstate Advocate

We are surrounded by beauty and opportunity.

It's not hard to understand why the Upstate of South Carolina is attracting so many new residents. Our region has it all — scenic mountains, sparkling lakes, recreation opportunities, vibrant communities, and that famous Southern hospitality.

While we welcome our new neighbors, the rapid development to accommodate this growth is staggering, and the impacts are accelerating. These days, It's impossible to ignore the ubiquitous signs — clear cutting, traffic, wildlife displacement, erosion, water and air impacts, and loss of greenspace. Without thoughtful, deliberate action, it would be easy for these things to eat away at the Upstate we love until it's no longer recognizable.

The good news is we're also seeing an unprecedented groundswell of support for conservation and balanced growth across the region and state. I'm sure you've seen the efforts by Governor McMaster and the Legislature to protect millions more acres of land in the state by 2050.

We're seeing that conservation ethic at the local and private levels as well, as more and more people recognize the immediate need to ensure the beauty and ecological health of our region remain intact for generations to come.

Upstate Forever has partnered with dozens of organizations across the state — municipalities, nonprofit partners, regulatory staff, elected officials, business leaders, and funders — to leverage these opportunities, wisely and collaboratively.

But the greatest asset we have in this movement? You. Our supporters. You are the reason we can protect land, safeguard water, and advocate for better growth practices. Without your generosity, we couldn't do any of this critical and time-sensitive work.

I encourage you to take some time this spring and summer to explore the Upstate's special places. In this issue of the Upstate Advocate, our staff have compiled some quick and easy day trips to help you connect with the natural wonders that sustain our life, health, and happiness.

Thank you for being part of the solution.

Aldon Knight, Executive Director

Click here to read a digital copy of the Spring/Summer 2026 issue of the Upstate Advocate