The Upstate Update: May 2022

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.

The latest issue of the Upstate Advocate has arrived!

We are proud to share with you the latest issue of our twice-yearly print publication, the Upstate Advocate.

In this edition, six remarkable women leading the Upstate to a green, vibrant, and prosperous future share their stories. Clean Water & GIS Manager Katie Hottel recommends four paddle adventures along the Upstate's blueways you can enjoy no matter your skill — or thrill — level. Energy Advocate Michael Coleman gives advice for contacting your legislators. And, of course, we celebrate the remarkable accomplishments your support has enabled our staff to make over the past year.

Read the latest issue

Also in this month's newsletter:

• Wear your Upstate pride
  Make a gift of $35 or more and we’ll send you our brand new t-shirt! Available in sage or cream, these new tees feature a custom illustration by local artist Carissa Grace celebrating the Upstate’s natural resources and native species. They're going quickly, so claim yours today! Donate now

• Shop local, support conservation
  Each June, Mast General Store hosts Land Trust Day in celebration of the work of land trusts like Upstate Forever. This year, Mast General is donating 20% of the Greenville store's sales on Saturday, June 4 to UF! You can also stop by our table in the store from 10 am - 5 pm to chat with our team.

• Litter sweep – Saturday, June 18
  Looking for an upcoming volunteer opportunity? Come out on Saturday, June 18 from 9:00 - 11:00 am for a litter sweep at Cancer Survivors Park in downtown Greenville, a property protected through a conservation easement held by UF. Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. RSVP here

• Bitcoin mining could impact you
  Energy Advocate Michael Coleman spoke to Fox Carolina News about the possible effects of Bitcoin mining on the Upstate's energy and natural resources. Our team is keeping an eye on this budding industry and urging elected officials to put regulations in place to ensure local residents are protected from potential threats of cryptocurrency mining. Watch the Fox Carolina segment here

And more!

View this month's Upstate Update