MT. PLEASANT, S.C. — The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in South Carolina today (Sept. 14) announced the transfer of 1,950 acres to the United States Forest Service, Enoree Ranger District of the Sumter National Forest. The property was identified as a high-priority acquisition by USFS and adjoins a future 335-acre Laurens County park, significantly expanding the footprint of publicly accessible land at the edge of the rural Upcountry community of Joanna.
“As development continues to move south along the I-26 corridor, our natural spaces are increasingly under significant pressure,” commented Dale Threatt-Taylor, executive director, The Nature Conservancy in South Carolina. “Our team worked quickly to get this property off the real estate market and managed it until transfer to the Forest Service could be finalized.”
The property consists of large upland hardwoods, wetlands, and a series of streams that drain into the Enoree River.
“We’re improving access to the forest and expanding recreation opportunities for the local community, while also supporting the state’s ‘Ten Million Acres Initiative,’ which will put an additional 7 million acres of land into lasting stewardship,” said Daniel McInnis, forest supervisor for the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests. “We’re grateful for our partnership with The Nature Conservancy, whose commitment made this possible. Collaborations like this help ensure that future generations can hunt, hike, and connect with the landscapes that make this area special.”
After acquiring new land, the Forest Service formally incorporates it into the National Forest System, opens it for public access, and begins science-based planning and stewardship to ensure long-term ecological and community benefits.
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The Nature Conservancy is the leading conservation organization working around the world to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. The Conservancy and its more than 1 million members have protected nearly 120 million acres worldwide. Visit The Nature Conservancy on the Web at nature.org/sc.
