The Upstate Update: September 2023

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.

Don't miss these fall foliage hikes

Fall is in the air! Summer is finally coming to an end, and it's time to gear up for some autumn hikes in the Upstate. As the leaves start to turn, you can head out to some great local spots to enjoy views of fall foliage and protected lands. We have several recommendations for the best foliage hikes on our blog.

Also in the month's newsletter:

• Tyger River Recreation Region: We want to hear from you! Planning for the new Tyger River Recreation Region is underway. UF and the Tyger River Foundation want to know what you'd like to see take shape at this new public recreation and eco-tourism site. Check out the new project website to see the area's map and the amenities under consideration. Then head over to the survey to tell us what you think.
   
• Woodruff zoning ordinace passes: The City of Woodruff passed a new zoning ordinance in late August. UF’s Land Planning & Policy team advocated for adoption because it enhances beautification in the downtown revitalization overlay district, encourages higher quality mixed-use development, and permits accessory dwelling units on single-detached lots. Sign up for Spartanburg's e-list here.
   
• Saluda Grade public meetings: Along with our partners, we are seeking public input for the Saluda Grade Trail. The South Carolina Public Meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 17 from 5:30 - 7:30 PM at the Inman Library. Voice your suggestions and concerns at the drop-in style meeting and visit various stations to learn more about the trail. If you'd like to attend, please RSVP here.
   
• UF's Annual Meeting: Join us on Sunday, October 22 from 2:00 - 5:00 PM at Conestee Nature Preserve's Henderson Meadow for our family friendly Annual Meeting and 25th Anniversary Picnic catered by Henry's Smokehouse (vegetarian option available). We will gather to thank our members for their support and update you on our annual progress. RSVP here.
   
• From Barrels to Batteries: On October 4th, UF's Energy Advocate Michael Coleman will moderate a panel for From Barrels to Batteries: A Roundtable on Rural Transportation Electrification in the Southeast. Hosted by the Electrification Coalition, it will feature discussion about the fundamental shift in transportation across the southeast. Learn more.
   
• The impact of PFAS: UF's Clean Water Director Erika Hollis discusses the manmade chemicals called PFAS (Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances) and why they exist at unsafe levels in our waterways. Learn about products containing PFAS, how they get into our waterways and bodies, and what SCDHEC is doing for residents with private wells. Read more on our blog.

Read more in the September Upstate Update

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