The Upstate Update: July 2020

The Upstate Update is a digital newsletter curated and shared each month that offers insights into Upstate Forever's recent work, highlights upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, and shares other conservation and advocacy news.

We post the Upstate Update here on the Upstate Forever blog each month. If you would like to receive the Upstate Update directly in your email inbox, please sign up for the mailing list.

More than 600 acres protected in Union County

We are thrilled to announce the protection of more than 600 acres on two privately owned properties in Union County!

Friendfield Farm is 372 acres of prime farmland, timber, and hunting land. With more than a mile of land along the banks of Fairforest Creek, its protection will also play a significant role in safeguarding the creek’s water quality.

Sandy Run Forest is comprised of 237 acres of forests, farmland, and open fields. Located less than a mile from the Lower Pacolet River, this property is also critical to water quality, in addition to serving as important wildlife habitat.

Because of your support, Upstate Forever protects more than 24,000 acres across the Upstate — and we have more conservation projects in the works. We hope to share more conservation successes with you soon!

View the July edition of the Upstate Update

Also in this month's Upstate Update:

• Food insecurity in the Upstate
  As much as 16% of the Upstate's population struggles with a lack of consistent access to enough food to live an active, healthy life. Our Land Conservation team recently received a $10,000 grant from Newman's Own Foundation to strengthen the local food systems in Upstate counties with the highest rate of food insecurity.
   
• Two steps forward, one step back: National energy and conservation news
  While the majority of our work is focused on protecting the critical lands, abundant waters, and unique character of the ten counties that comprise SC's Upstate, there's no denying that national energy and conservation policies impact us right here at home. From the passing of a landmark conservation bill to environmental policy rollbacks, we shared a few recent national headlines — and how they impact you. Read more
   
• Greenville Co. zoning updates
  Following adoption of a widely supported comprehensive plan earlier this year, Greenville County has kicked off the process of drafting a Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to replace current zoning and land development regulations. Here's what we know

View the July edition of the Upstate Update

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