Conservation Leadership Spotlight: 600 riverine acres added to Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve
Collaboration between the Open Space Institute (OSI) and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) has resulted in the exciting addition of more than 600 acres to the Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve near downtown Columbia in Lexington County. This project doubled the size of the preserve, bolstered wildlife habitat protection, and significantly expanded opportunities for outdoor recreation in the region.
This acquisition was made possible through funding from the South Carolina Conservation Bank (SCCB) and the SCDNR’s Heritage Trust Program. Both of these funding sources have received critical support from state legislators, facilitating the protection of land and water across the state. CVSC thanks Representative Micah Caskey (R, District 89) and Senators Shane Massey (R, District 25) and Carlisle Kennedy (R, District 23) for their conservation leadership at the statehouse and their continued support of these crucial funding sources for natural resource protection.
The property added to the preserve contains large swaths of longleaf pine, numerous trails, rare Atlantic White Cedar trees, and plentiful habitat for a variety of native species. The addition added 10 miles of hiking trails and another 10 miles of paddling opportunities along Six Mile and Congaree creeks, creating new places to bird watch, view wildlife, fish, and more.
Love for nature and outdoor recreation is part of the DNA of South Carolina. As the state continues to see strong population growth, it is increasingly important to sustain the funding sources that support strategic land acquisitions and the immense community benefits they deliver. With continued collaboration between conservation organizations and state agencies, and steadfast conservation champions at the statehouse, South Carolina can continue making strides toward protecting 10 million acres.
Make sure to get outside and enjoy this exceptional preserve, and please join CVSC in thanking OSI, SCDNR, and the state legislators who made this project possible.
Read more about OSI and this exciting project here: