Upstate Forever - Our Work

Upstate Forever is a nonprofit conservation organization that protects critical lands, waters, and the unique character of the Upstate of South Carolina. We focus our work on the ten counties of Abbeville, Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg and Union.

Over the past two decades, we have worked to protect some of our region’s most important environmentally sensitive lands and assets in regards to water and habitat quality – our farmlands, forests, natural areas, healthy rivers, and clean air. We are committed to ensuring that our Upstate communities are vibrant and retain their natural areas, outdoor heritage, and unique identities in the face of rapid development and significant sprawl.

Our Goals

Protect land and water
Foster a love of place
Convey the importance of now
Serve as a trusted community champion

What’s Happening

Historic property protected

We recently completed the protection of the 20-acre Spring Park and Spring Park Inn in downtown Travelers Rest. A grant from the South Carolina Conservation Bank made the conservation easement possible.

Read the Upstate Advocate

In the latest issue of our twice-yearly print publication, you'll find essays from local artists about the inspiration they find in our region's natural resources, recent news from Upstate Forever, and more.

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Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

To realize our vision of a future that is healthy, vibrant, and prosperous for the Upstate, we know it is vitally important and essential to our core values that we engage the diverse community we serve.

Our Commitment