Building Resilience: Protecting SC From the Next Major Storm
As South Carolina grapples with the aftermath of devastating storms and flooding, we at CVSC are reminded of our dedication to policies and tools that help promote disaster resilience and mitigate flood damage to protect our communities. Our mission to build a more resilient future for South Carolina has never felt more pressing.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has revealed the vulnerability of our communities and infrastructure to extreme weather events, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness, mitigation strategies, and long-term solutions to challenges posed by our changing environment. Climate change has contributed to more frequent and extreme storms, resulting in devastating flooding events that have impacted our beloved state. Homes have been damaged, people’s lives have been disrupted, and many South Carolinians are forced to evacuate when storms approach our coast.
At CVSC, we’re working to build a safer future for our communities. We’re committed to helping our communities minimize the devastating effects of flooding by doubling the amount of protected land in South Carolina. Green infrastructure, which refers to natural and engineered systems designed to manage stormwater and provide other environmental benefits, plays a crucial role in these efforts. Healthy land and green spaces act as sponges, soaking up significant amounts of stormwater and runoff and as a filter of pollutants, keeping our waterways clean. With a primary focus on maintaining and expanding existing green infrastructure, we support and advocate for state agencies that enhance communities’ overall resilience. By investing in land protection and green infrastructure, we are protecting our environment and safeguarding the well-being of our residents and businesses.
Over the past two years, we’ve helped secure over $250 million for land protection in South Carolina through the General Assembly and ballot referenda campaigns. This funding helps agencies such as the Department of Natural Resources and the South Carolina Conservation Bank conserve more green spaces across the state and empowers local governments to protect the lands most critical to their resilience and quality of life.
As one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, managing growth and land use is critical. As the 2025-2026 legislative session approaches, CVSC is working with lawmakers to develop and support land use tools that steer growth away from hazard zones like flood plains while protecting open space and green infrastructure to enhance resilience. By working closely with lawmakers and community leaders, we aim to ensure that South Carolina is better equipped to handle future storms, flooding, and other impacts of climate change.
By supporting CVSC, you’re helping to protect our communities, preserve our natural heritage, and build a more resilient future for South Carolina.