lord-berkeley

Accreditation Renewed

Wed, 07 May 2025 17:25:02 GMT

Moncks Corner, SC - One thing that unites us as a nation is land: Americans strongly support saving the natural spaces they love. Since 1992, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust, has been doing just that for the people of the South Carolina lowcountry. Today, we are excited to announce that Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust has renewed its land trust accreditation—proving once again that, as part of a network of over 450 accredited land trusts across the nation, we are committed to conservation excellence.

Renewing our accreditation shows Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust's ongoing commitment to permanent land conservation in the Santee River and Cooper River watersheds, the Ashley River headwaters, and Four Holes Swamp. We are a stronger organization than ever for having gone through the rigorous accreditation renewal process. Our strength means special places ±such as Wadboo Creek—will be protected forever, making the Cooper River watershed an even greater place for now and in the future.

Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this distinction. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded renewed accreditation, signifying its confidence that the Trust's lands will be protected forever. Accredited land trusts now steward over 20 million acres—about the size of South Carolina!

Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust— a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization — is led by volunteer professionals who are dedicated to preserving the natural, cultural and historical resources in and around the Ashley River Headwaters, the Cooper River Basin, Four Holes Swamp and the Santee Basin. Since 1992 the Trust has protected over 47,000 acres.

"We are proud to recognize Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust's continued commitment to conservation excellence," said Melissa Kalvestrand, executive director of the Commission. "The accreditation seal is a mark of distinction that stands for excellence, trust and permanence. Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust is part of a network of over 450 accredited land trusts that are united by their strong ethical practices. Accredited land trusts inspire confidence and respect among their peers and in their communities."

Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust is one of 1,281 land trusts across the United States according to the Land Trust Alliance's most recent National Land Trust Census. A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and benefits can be found at www.landtrustaccreditation.org .

About Land Trust Accreditation Commission The Land Trust Accreditation Commission inspires excellence, promotes public trust and ensures permanence in the conservation of open lands by recognizing organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement. The Commission, established in 2006 as an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, is governed by a volunteer board of diverse land conservation and nonprofit management experts. For more, visit www.landtrustaccreditation.org .

Clays for Conservation 2024

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 13:11:38 GMT

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s clay shoot at Back Woods Quail Club. It was a beautiful morning for shooting and fellowship all while supporting the ongoing work of the Trust.

Oyster Roast 2024

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 13:16:58 GMT

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s Oyster Roast at Cypress Gardens!

Berkeley Battlefields Tour

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 13:20:30 GMT

It was a beautiful spring day to tour the Revolutionary War battlefields in Berkeley County. One we see it and understand it, we will work to conserve it. We hope today our guests learned and now have the motivation to conserve special places.

Stakeholder Notification/Public Notice

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 13:22:12 GMT

Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust is Applying for Renewal of Land Trust Alliance Accreditation

The land trust accreditation program recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust was awarded its original accreditation in 2018 and is pleased to announce it is currently applying for renewal of accreditation. A public comment period is now open.

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, conducts an extensive review of each applicant’s policies and programs. The accreditation awarded as a result demonstrates to the public that Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust is a responsible steward of the entrusted working lands and natural places that it protects and adheres to the nationally recognized standards and practices of land trusts. This process repeats every five years, ensuring that Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust remains a responsible steward of the land and complies with current standards and practices.

The Commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on pending applications. Comments must relate to how Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust complies with national quality standards. These standards address the ethical and technical operation of a land trust. For the full list of standards see http://www.landtrustaccreditation.org/help-andresources/indicator-practices .

To learn more about the accreditation program and to submit a comment, visit www.landtrustaccreditation.org, or email your comment to info@landtrustaccreditation.org . Comments may also be mailed to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, Attn: Public Comments, 36 Phila Street, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Comments on Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust’s application will be most useful by February 15.

Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust 136 E. Railroad Avenue Moncks Corner, SC 29461 843.899.5228 info@lordberkeley.org

Woods & Waters 2022

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 13:29:54 GMT

Donors, partners, current and former board members and supporters came together to celebrate Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust’s 30 years of conservation work in the Lowcountry on Saturday, November 5th. It was a beautiful evening filled with celebration of the good work accomplished and determination to continue the work of the Trust for future generations.

Chris Vaughn, Executive Director, shared “ A quote that always grabs me, and I think speaks to the noble nature of our cause comes from John C. Sawhill who was president of the Nature Conservancy, ‘ A society is defined not only by what it creates, but also by what it refuses to destroy .’ Thirty years ago the Charleston Region was a very different place, and certainly the same will be true in another thirty years. What kind of Lowcountry will future generations experience? Will our river corridors be stunning? Will the water be safe to drink and swim in? Will we still have outstanding fisheries and abundant wildlife habitat? Will our historic sites be protected and accessible? Will family farms still be in the family?

Jim Rozier said it best when he said, ‘ These lands and waters are more than shades on a map; they are what makes our home our home. Saving them is tantamount to saving the heart and soul of our community .’ Friends, we know who we are , we know what we’re a part of and we have momentum. We are poised for success as we begin our next thirty years. Let’s get it done!”

Welcome to Fort Fair Lawn

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 13:34:53 GMT

The Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust and the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust celebrated the public opening of the historic Fort Fair Lawn, the most pristine, intact, original Revolutionary War fortification in South Carolina this weekend. Over 1,700 people have already visited the Fort! This weekend’s public opening of Fort Fair Lawn, coincided with Colonial Days, hosted by the Berkeley County Museum and Heritage Center, Old Santee Canal Park, and Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust.

Following acquisition in 2016, the property has undergone extensive archeological work, a park master planning process, and trail construction. “Acquiring Fort Fair Lawn took many years of effort by our staff, community leaders, and those who fully understood its significance. Securing the fort and surrounding acreage was critical to ensure that this unique, historic property remains protected forever,” remarked Chris Vaughn, executive director, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust. “This public opening celebrates the improved accessibility to the site and opens the door for the community to walk in the steps of history.” Improvements to the 80-acre site include 1.75 miles of gravel walking trails, boardwalks, park benches, a gated trail connection to Old Santee Canal Park, and direct access to the fort structure.

In 1780, the British had the momentum as they defeated the partisan American forces in a string of battles and skirmishes throughout Georgia and South Carolina. They had already captured the city of Savannah and were poised to take Charles Town—one of the wealthiest in all the American colonies. But after a decisive rout at Sullivan’s Island four years prior, the British opted to avoid a direct naval assault on the city and instead planned to lay siege to it.

Their plan to siege Charles Town required securing the Cooper River, which served as the principal transportation route to the backcountry, a supply route and means of escape for the Patriot army. In April 1780, the British routed American cavalry and infantry stationed in Moncks Corner and established their headquarters at Fair Lawn Barony – the only home constructed by a Lords Proprietors’ family. The home was located about one mile away from the last navigable point on the Cooper River at Stoney Landing. There, they constructed Fort Fair Lawn to guard the landing and fortify their position at the head of the Cooper River. The British held this position until late 1781, when they withdraw their troops to Charles Town.

“Of the more than thirty forts constructed during the American Revolutionary war in South Carolina, only two remain in their original condition: the Ninety-Six National Historic Site and Fort Fair Lawn,” commented Doug Bostick, CEO, South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust. “The significance of this site has led it to be a gateway for the statewide Liberty Trail. In addition to the interactive Liberty Trail app that was launched this Spring, we look forward to providing additional onsite interpretation to help these stories come to life.” Moncks Corner-based, Home Telecom, provided a generous gift to support the interpretation.

Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb joined community leaders to celebrate the opening. “Berkeley County boasts a rich history, and Fort Fair Lawn is an iconic piece of that local and national history we are so greatly honored to commemorate and celebrate today,” Cribb remarked. “Seeing all of these community partners unite for this monumental initiative is a true testament to the depth of dedication and passion we all feel in wanting to remember those that paid the price fighting for our Independence.”

Lewisfield Preserve created along Cooper River Corridor

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 13:39:19 GMT

Grounds of historic rice plantation now permanently protected wildlife preserve.

The Open Space Institute, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust and Lowcountry Land Trust announce the creation of the Lewisfield Preserve: a 600-acre sanctuary of mature bottomland hardwood forests and historic inland rice fields on the Cooper River. The conservation partners are developing a public access plan that encompasses outdoor recreation, nature study and historic research.

Over the past three decades, conservation groups and landowners have permanently secured more than 50,000 acres in Berkeley County, including the sites of some of America’s earliest European and African American settlements. The newly established Lewisfield Preserve represents a vital addition to the protected landscape along the Cooper River—near the northern edge of the Charleston metropolitan area.

The acquisition and creation of the Lewisfield Preserve comes at a critical moment. Over the past decade, Berkeley County has consistently ranked as the second fastest growing county in South Carolina, placing it among the most rapidly growing places in the U.S. As thousands of acres of land are converted to subdivisions, strip malls and industrial sites every year, the future of nature and history in Berkeley County truly hangs in the balance—a balance that the Open Space Institute, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust and Lowcountry Land Trust have substantially tilted toward preservation.

Conservationists and their partners have permanently safeguarded dozens of properties along the Cooper River in the last 30 years, forming a nearly unbroken 30-mile protected corridor on both sides of the river that extends up the historic East Branch. A few of the protected sites include: Medway Plantation, a 7,000-acre property featuring the oldest masonry house in the state; Mulberry Plantation, with one of the finest examples of Jacobean architecture in the New World, and 3,000-acre Mepkin Abbey, formerly the home of Henry and Clair Booth Luce and now a beloved Cistercian monastery.

Combined with the 250,000-acre Francis Marion National Forest, these publicly and privately owned conservation lands constitute one of the largest sanctuaries of history and nature on the Eastern Seaboard. The Lewisfield Preserve represents the latest—and one of the final—pieces of the conservation puzzle along this section of the Cooper River.

The Preserve encompasses a feature of colonial agriculture that is virtually unknown today—inland, non-tidal rice fields. Unlike their better known successors of rice production—tidal rice fields along the river edges, which powered the state’s economy through the late 18th and 19th centuries—rice cultivation in inland fields lasted just a few decades. By 1750, most of these fields had been abandoned and were reverting to bottomland forests of red and white oak, hickory, black gum, tupelo and bald cypress trees.

The Preserve presents an exceptional opportunity to highlight this forgotten era. The creation of South Carolina’s rice industry by enslaved Africans has been compared to the building of the pyramids. But the labor and expertise involved with erecting the 130 or so pyramids of Egypt pales in comparison to the logging, stump removal and leveling of hundreds of thousands of acres of ancient hardwood forests; the construction of hundreds of miles of earthen dikes using shovels, buckets and wheelbarrows; the installation of thousands of sluice gates; and the annual hand-planting, tending and harvesting of tens of millions of pounds of rice. South Carolina’s “rice kingdom” created and operated by enslaved Africans represents an endeavor that has few parallels in human history.

The Lewisfield Preserve is also a biological gem. With its towering forests and diverse wetlands, the property has been one of the region’s highest priority conservation targets. Providing breeding and roosting grounds—as well as a migratory stopover—for countless neotropical songbirds, the threatened wood stork and the endangered northern long-eared bat, the Preserve harbors a variety of habitats that support native plants and animals. Hundreds of species of vascular plants are found there too.

In addition, the property was once the site of an important skirmish in the Revolutionary War. The Battle of Lewisfield displayed a type of warfare that seems quaint and distant today, embodying principles and codes of conduct of a bygone era. On July 16, 1781, Colonel Wade Hampton and his men made their way across what is now Lewisfield Preserve for breakfast, and “a sight, if possible, of Miss Molsie Simons.” As they approached the Cooper River, they surprised a group of 78 British soldiers loading two ships at the wharf. Hampton’s men promptly captured the British soldiers and burned the ships, concluding what must have been one of the most successful and least violent conflicts of the war.

Nate Berry, Open Space Institute (OSI) Senior Vice President says, “OSI is honored to have protected this world-class wildlife habitat, while preserving a direct link to our colonial-era history. We salute Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust, Lowcountry Land Trust (LLT) and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) for their partnership and tireless efforts to protect South Carolina’s natural, historical and cultural heritage.”

The property was first protected by OSI in 2018 to mitigate unavoidable impacts associated with the South Carolina Department of Transportation Berlin Myers Parkway project in Dorchester County. After stewarding the property over the past three years, OSI placed it under a conservation easement with the Lowcountry Land Trust and transferred the land to the Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust.

“Lowcountry Land Trust is proud to partner with OSI, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust and SCDOT on the permanent protection of Lewisfield,” said Ashley Demosthenes, President and CEO of Lowcountry Land Trust. “Each organization is bringing its unique strengths to the table to protect this extraordinary property.”

“The protection of the Lewisfield Preserve has been a long-standing priority of the Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust (LBCT) for decades. This effort was successful only because of partnership with OSI, LLT, SCDOT, and the former owners of the property, the Dennis family,” said Chris Vaughn, LBCT Director.

Berkeley Battlefields Tours

Sat, 30 Apr 2022 13:44:29 GMT

From Biggin Church to Mepkin Abbey to Fort Fair Lawn….we covered it all! The Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust in conjunction with the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust and Berkeley County hosted three Berkeley Battlefield Tours in April. Our tour guide, David Reuwer with SCBPT, was entertaining and informative and the company was delightful. Thank you to the Berkeley County Museum for hosting breakfast and sharing the new Revolutionary War Exhibit with us! Thank you to everyone who joined us to explore the Patriots' victories and defeats on Berkeley County battlefields.

Mark your calendar for our last tour of 2022 on Friday, October 14th!

April 8, 2022 Tour Photos

April 22, 2022 Tour Photos

We were please to host the College of Charleston Center for Creative Retirement for their very own Berkeley Battlefields Tour!

April 23, 2022 Tour Photos

Clays for Conservation 2022

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 13:49:59 GMT

It was an absolutely perfect spring day for our second annual Clays for Conservation at Back Woods Quail Club in Georgetown. A special thank you to our sponsors and shooters for successful event!

Oyster Roast 2022

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 13:53:14 GMT

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Oyster Roast on Saturday, February 5th at The Ponds in Summerville. The oysters were salty, the BBQ savory, the weather perfect and the company of friends and supporters was best of all!

That's a Wrap!

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 14:00:11 GMT

That’s a wrap on Berkeley Battlefields Tours for 2021! We enjoyed spending a beautiful day exploring battlefields. We hope all of our attendees walked away with a desire to see more special places protected! 2022 dates to be released soon, stay tuned!

Explore Berkeley Battlefields

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 14:04:43 GMT

We loved getting out on the trail last week with our latest group to join us for the Berkeley Battlefields Tour. The group was engaging and fun! We visited Biggin Church, Wadboo, Quinby, Mepkin Abbey and Fort Fair Lawn. AND this was our first group to test out the new trails around Fort Fair Lawn! We can’t wait to share these trails with the public this Spring.

Join us for our next Berkeley Battlefields Tour, Friday, October 29th. Tickets can be purchased HERE .

18th Century Canal Remnants and Nearly Two Miles of River Frontage Permanently Protected

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 14:12:48 GMT

Trust has announced the permanent protection of one of the last remaining sections of the 18th century Old Santee Canal and 645 acres of surrounding forestland including nearly two miles of Santee River frontage.

Constructed between 1793 and 1800, the 22-mile Old Santee Canal connected the Santee and Cooper Rivers, providing direct access to Charleston from points inland. The canal was used for less than 20 years, when droughts revealed faults in its design. Years later, much of the Canal was destroyed in the development of Lakes Marion and Moultrie. Today, only two segments remain, one at Old Santee Canal Park in Moncks Corner and a second, northwest of Pineville. The property now under permanent protection by conservation easement contains remnants of the canal and an original lock structure that remains mostly intact.

“Protection of the 645-acre Old Santee Canal tract represents a significant milestone in our efforts to conserve the Santee Basin. Conserving these extraordinary historic, scenic and natural resources would simply not have been possible without the dedication and generosity of the landowners – Dr. Bert Pruitt, Ken and Cathy Wingate, James and Jenny Edwards, Jr.,” commented Chris Vaughn, executive director, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust. “The Santee River continues to provide a near wilderness experience from below the Marion dam to the Atlantic Ocean. These lands will remain unspoiled forever, providing renewable resources, clean water, scenic beauty, and diverse habitats.”

In his remarks at today’s celebration, Ken Wingate, noted that this property was one that his father-in-law, the late South Carolina Governor James B. Edwards held dear. “One of our hopes is that in partnership with the Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust, we all together can maintain these historic sites and to allow the public to come and periodically see, learn, enjoy and be excited about the history this property represents.

The property has been extensively studied by scholar, educator and conservationist, Dr. Richard Porcher, who is also co-authoring a book on the Canal. “Preserving a place like the Old Santee Canal is critical. It is part of our history. It is part of who we are,” he continued. “This was the lifeline for the economy of South Carolina for more than 50 years and served a critical role in bringing all the wares from the upcountry to Charleston. Being able to preserve a structure like this, is really preserving who we are.”

Funding for the project was provided by the South Carolina Conservation Bank. “The Old Santee Canal is an important reminder of the critical role rivers have played in shaping the history and economy of our state,” commented Raleigh West, executive director, South Carolina Conservation Bank. “In addition to the history, this property’s location in a corridor of protected river front properties contributes to a growing conservation movement along the Santee.”

New Trails To Bring Access to Revolutionary War Fort

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 14:20:53 GMT

Fort Fair Lawn expected to strengthen County tourism

Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust and The Liberty Trail, a project of the American Battlefield Trust and South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust, along with numerous local and state partners, today announced the groundbreaking of trails at Fort Fair Lawn. One and three quarter miles of walking trails, providing a connection to Old Santee Canal Park and access to the Revolutionary War British fort are under construction and expected to be completed in the Fall. Fort Fair Lawn is the first property that Lord Berkeley Conservation trust owns and has opened for public access.

“South Carolina’s landscape is rich with stories,” said Chris Vaughn, executive director, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust. “We’re grateful to partner with organizations which share our passion for protecting special places and in the case of Fort Fair Lawn, opening the property to area residents and visitors.”

Representatives from the Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust, SC Battleground Preservation Trust, Berkeley County Museum and Heritage Center, and Berkeley County

The Liberty Trail is a unique initiative that combines land preservation, cutting edge digital interpretation and traditional on-site tourism infrastructure to create a unified narrative of the Revolutionary War in South Carolina.

Of the more than thirty forts constructed during the American Revolutionary war in South Carolina, only two remain in their original condition: the Ninety-Six National Historic Site in Greenwood County and Fort Fair Lawn in Berkeley County. The Fort Fair Lawn site is one of five new battlefield parks to be created in the first phase of The Liberty Trail. “Working with Lord Berkeley to acquire and permanently protect Fort Fair Lawn in 2016 was a significant first step,” commented Doug Bostick, executive director, South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust. “We’re eager to get residents and visitors onsite to experience the history that shaped our nation’s independence.”

“The creation of new parkland at Fort Fair Lawn will draw visitors young and old to step back in time and imagine what life was like during the American Revolution,” said American Battlefield Trust President David Duncan. “The philosophy that there is power in place is at the very heart of The Liberty Trail.”

The property is nestled between two residential neighborhoods and adjacent to Santee Cooper’s Old Santee Canal Park. Acquisition of the Fair Lawn project was a joint project with South Carolina Battleground Trust and Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust with Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust holding the deed and South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust holding the easement. Since that time, a masterplan and extensive archeological work have been completed. Interpretive kiosks are expected to be available along the trail later this year. The Berkeley Museum is developing a dedicated exhibit and will serve as the gateway to the park.

The high-profile project has attracted more than $2.2 million in funding from multiple county, state, and federal sources including the American Battlefield Protection Program, South Carolina Conservation Bank, South Carolina State Ports Authority, Berkeley County, and American Battlefield Trust. “Historic sites, like Fort Fair Lawn have a demonstrated track record of strengthening tourism and boosting economic impact,” commented Johnny Cribb, Berkeley County Supervisor. “We’re grateful for the diversity of partners working together to conserve and develop this tremendous asset in our county.”

Berkeley Battlefields Tour

Fri, 14 May 2021 14:23:47 GMT

Two weeks ago we explored the Battlefields of Berkeley County with our fearless tour guide, David Reuwer of the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust, during our sold out inaugural Berkeley Battlefields Tour!

Lord Berkeley is honored to partner with Explore Berkeley County and the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust to share the stories and history of these historic sites, and also to tell the story of the conservation of these sites. As David said, “Liberty is freedom with responsibility.” We take our responsibility to protect and preserve these special places to heart and look forward to continuing the good work.

Permanent Protection of Ashley River Property

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 14:26:15 GMT

The Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust has announced the permanent protection of 200 acres along the Ashley River near Ridgeville. Under the terms of the conservation easement, the property will not be developed, and the hardwood forest will remain intact to retain water quality in the River.

“The Ashley River is synonymous with names like Middleton and Drayton Hall. It’s easy to forget that the River claims beginnings in Berkeley and Dorchester County before flowing through Charleston on its way to the ocean,” said Chris Vaughn, executive director, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust. “We’re pleased to have a hand in conserving the forests that slow and filter storm water before it reaches the River.”

The Bridlewood property lies along the Ashley River in Dorchester County, an entity that has begun to tout its rich ecotourism offerings. “Conservation of forested properties along the River not only adds scenic beauty for those who enjoy the river,” commented Councilman Jay Byars, Dorchester County Council and Chair, Parks Commission. “It adds considerably to the quality of life in our growing county. I commend the Trust on their efforts to keep property green forever.”

Oyster Roast 2020

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 14:29:14 GMT

Thank you to everyone who came out to our first oyster roast! Good weather, company, food and drinks all for a good cause. Thank you for helping us to continue to protect the woods and waters that make this place we all call home special. We can't wait to see you all again!

A special thank you to our sponsors:

Guggenheim Partners

Palmetto Umbrella Mitigation Bank

J. Philip Morgan Insurance

AgSouth

Dixon Hughes Goodman, LLP

Farmers & Merchants Bank

Executive Director Announced

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 14:31:20 GMT

Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust (LBCT) recently announced that Chris Vaughn has assumed the role of Executive Director of the organization founded by visionary local conservationists in 1992.

Chris comes to LBCT with experience from some of the most trusted brands in conservation and forestry; including The Nature Conservancy, Ducks Unlimited, Lowcountry Land Trust, and MeadWestvaco. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Lander College and a Master of Science in Forest Resources from Clemson University.

“Over the past six years, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust has been tremendously successful permanently protecting properties in local watersheds,” commented Al Kennedy, chair, LBCT board. “Chris’s experience in business and natural resources will ensure this momentum continues under the tremendous pressure of a rapidly growing region.”

Chris follows Raleigh West, former LBCT Executive Director, who was appointed as head of the South Carolina Conservation Bank.

2,400 Acres on Ashley River Headwaters Permanently Protected

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 14:32:23 GMT

When we speak of the Ashley River, images of the historic plantations, Middleton and Drayton Hall may come to mind; or perhaps the wide tidal river that flows boldly along the peninsula of Charleston into Charleston Harbor; but to truly know a river is to understand its beginnings. The Ashley River begins miles from the Harbor in rural Berkeley County, just outside the rural community of Cross. It meanders through the Cypress and Wassamassaw Swamps until all of its tributaries come together in unison outside of Summerville.

The headwaters of the Ashley provide an incredible service to the thousands of residents downstream. The bottomland hardwood forests allow the river to expand during times of peak flow and contract during a drought. They slow the flow of water allowing sediment to deposit along the way, resulting in clean water downstream. What happens to these forests upstream has a direct impact on the river downstream, which is why the Ashley River headwaters are an important focus area for Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust.

We’re honored to share that we worked with Weyerhaeuser to secure a conservation easement on nearly 2,400 acres in the Ashley River headwaters near Cross. The Big Run Mitigation Site has been managed for much of the last century for commercial pine production. Weyerhaeuser proposes to restore the natural hydrology of the site through the removal of commercial pine plantations, and the reconnection of the streams found on site with their historical channels. The Big Run Mitigation Site contains approximately six miles of braided streams which come together to form Big Run Creek. Big Run Creek, along with Black Creek and Mill Branch Creek, form the Ashley River.

While this conservation easement protects significant acreage, our work in the Ashley River headwaters is far from complete. The Ashley River Watershed incorporates nearly 900 square miles and is under tremendous development pressure. Your gift to Lord Berkeley ensures that we have the capacity to respond to the urgent needs of the region. Please consider making a contribution to support this critical work.

Give Yourselves a Hand!

Mon, 06 May 2019 14:35:06 GMT

When we look at the tremendous support our donors provide us, we can’t help but think about the promise that is made when one joins a church—to support with your presence, your prayers, your gifts, and your service. Our Saturday evening Woods & Waters event was a living testimony to the support you give. With nearly 250 attendees, we felt the heartwarming fellowship of surrounding ourselves with people who believe in what we do. Landowners and friends stepped up to provide unique auction items that you can only enjoy via this event and you generously opened your wallets to make the auction a success.

Lastly, we know that there were a whole lot of prayer warriors in action. Just a little way inland, a voracious storm churned up winds, dropped a lot of rain, and was supercharged with lightning. Meanwhile, we had barely a sprinkle at Cain Hoy. Or perhaps it was a little Jim Rozier looking out for us from above. We bestowed the Order of Lord Berkeley post-humously upon him. His wife, Kathy accepted the award. If you were not able to join us, you can trust that you were missed. Enjoy the photos and make plans to attend next year’s event.

Mingo Creek frontage permanently protected

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 14:37:18 GMT

Following on the heels of the protection of the Durant farm, we're excited to share the news of the permanent protection of another property with ties to the Black River. The Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust has secured a conservation easement on 461 acres in Georgetown County, near Andrews. The easement also protects nearly a mile and a half of frontage along Mingo Creek, a tributary of the Black River.

With an eye towards long term timber management and recreational use, the landowner agrees to continue active forest management on the planted pine uplands and limit harvesting in the bottomland hardwoods.

“Maintaining the integrity of forested wetlands helps mitigate flooding for downstream communities, ensures good water quality, and protects the viewshed for paddlers and fishermen,” commented J. Raleigh West III, executive director, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust. “We were honored to work with the landowner who had a long-term vision for conservation.”

The Nuthatch Mingo Creek conservation easement marks the second for Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust in the Mingo Creek watershed, as the organization works to expand the northern reach of their work.

Lewisfield Plantation to receive permanent protection

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 14:39:14 GMT

Lewisfield is a place where stories are made. Revolutionary War skirmishes took place on its banks. Silver was disguised in a coffin and buried there during the Civil War. And more recently, the family of the late Senator Rembert C. Dennis called it home. It’s one of those places that very easily could have been referenced as a “could have been” a year from now. But thanks to the leadership of our organization and the support of the Open Space Institute (OSI), Lewisfield will soon be protected forever.

As posted online by the Post and Courier today, we’ve announced that Lewisfield Plantation is under contract to be purchased by OSI and will be transferred to the Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust for ownership.

Naturally, we’re excited about saving this critical piece of Berkeley County history, but we’re even more excited about what it means for the future of the Cooper River Corridor. It means that our grandchildren and their children can learn about and celebrate our rich history, rather than wondering why no one ever cared to protect it.

We’re honored to soon become a part of Lewisfield’s history and hope you’ll support our work to ensure many more “Lewisfields” to come.

Read the full story at The Post and Courier here.

Trust Donates Property for Demonstration Forest

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:40:30 GMT

Every day we work with landowners who desire to protect the vision for their property, forever. Those interactions are inspiring and their spirit defines the essence of our work. Other days, we have the opportunity to leverage our broad base of community contacts to orchestrate an arrangement that benefits even more people. Yesterday's Post and Courier featured one of those projects.

Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust today announced the donation of property in Pineville, South Carolina, to the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation. The property, located near the Pineville Community Center, will be used as a demonstration forest, where the Center will educate landowners on the economic and conservation benefits of sustainable forestry practices.

In 2017, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust secured a conservation easement on the 11,187-acre Oakland Club. As a part of the transaction, the owners donated this parcel to the Trust for educational purposes. The Trust then encumbered the property with a conservation easement and conveyed it to the Center.

“We’re appreciative of the opportunity to partner with the Center on this important conservation project. They help so many landowners recognize the value of their properties through sustainable forestry, and I hope this property enhances their education programs by providing them a chance to teach those practices on the ground,” commented Raleigh West, executive director, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust.

In addition to helping heirs’ property owners secure a clear title to their land, the Center offers forestry education and cost-share services to help landowners understand the value of managing their forestland for greater income. “This property will give us the opportunity to demonstrate to our landowners the benefits of implementing forestry practices that will grow their working landscapes, while generating income for their families,” said Jennie Stephens, executive director, Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation. “Forestry is a $21B industry in South Carolina, and we want historically underserved landowners to participate in this wealth-building industry.”

Foresters for the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation are currently assessing the site, with a goal of developing a management plan that includes restocking pine timber on the uplands, creating fire breaks and re-introducing controlled burning, and developing wildlife food plots. The site is bound by a conservation easement which prohibits industrial and commercial development, and significantly limits residential uses.