Explore the Environment in South Carolina

Explore

Inside Conservation in South Carolina

Our work includes projects to grow oyster reefs, restore longleaf pine forests, and much more.

Conservancy scientists discuss progress at an oyster reef restoration site on Jeremy Island near McClellanville. © Clay Bolt

Leading the Way

Since 1969, when it completed its first project in South Carolina by acquiring 1,711 acres of cypress-tupelo forest at Four Hole Swamp, The Nature Conservancy has led land protection efforts in the state, engaging public-private partnerships to maximize the benefit of conservation for people and nature. The South Carolina Chapter officially was chartered in 1978 and, to date, has protected more than 330,000 acres. Review the SC Chapter History/Timeline here.

Features

A female tidewater mucket from the Great Pee Dee – Little Pee Dee confluence. The little “beads” are the marsupium, or reproductive pouches. © Eric Krueger

Tidewater Mucket (Leptodea ochracea)

South Carolina has some of the best remaining populations of this mussel species.

Coastal marsh is fundamental to local food culture and continually inspires brothers Ted (left) and Matt (right. Courtesy of Matt and Ted Lee

The Lee Brothers Connect Food to Place

These Charleston-born brothers are sustained by the Lowcountry. Learn more about their connection to the place they call home.

Billy and Karen Exley. © Courtesy of Billy and Karen Exley.

Back Home on the Savannah River

Owner Billy Exley returns to his childhood home, the Recess Plantation

From the Mountaintop

SC Chapter Executive Director Mark Robertson, front, joins hikers for Jones Gap expansion preview. Kristine Hartvigsen, TNC-SC

Jones Gap Expansion Goal Met!

July 24: Over 380 donors have generously come forward to support the effort to expand Jones Gap State Park in Greenville County. Download the full story