Congaree Land Trust

“We need to create an environment where we can thrive. That means being thoughtful about how we develop our land and the impact that has on our future. The work that CLT does helps protect the land that will continue to support businesses, communities, and families in the long term.” - Sharon Bryant, First Citizens Bank At Congaree Land Trust, conservation and financial stewardship go hand in hand. For board member Sharon Bryant, the decision to join CLT came after an unexpected conversation with Executive Director, Stuart White. What began as a typical business conversation quickly turned into a deeper discussion about protecting South Carolina’s natural resources. Little did she know, that conversation would lead her to a new chapter of her career—and to a cause she is now passionate about: land conservation. Read her story here: bit.ly/SharonsCLTStory

November 15th is National Philanthropy Day! Today, we want to take a moment to honor the generous community that helps us protect our land and preserve our natural spaces for future generations. We are forever grateful for the donors, volunteers, and members who support our organization's mission. Together, we’re making a lasting impact. #NationalPhilanthropyDay

From the very start of her employment at CLT, Mary has been a champion for our mission, working to protect and conserve our precious landscapes, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty of the Midlands that we hold dear. Under her stewardship, we’ve made significant strides in land conservation, creating partnerships and inspiring our community to join us in this vital work. Her dedication and wisdom will be greatly missed at CLT! As she embarks on this exciting new chapter, we wish her all the best in her retirement. Please join us in sharing your favorite memories and well wishes in the comments!

Join us in welcoming the newest addition to the CLT team - Land Conservation Specialist, Gordon Baker! Gordon is originally from Columbia and holds a degree in Forest Management from Clemson University. He joins us from Milliken Advisors and brings many years of forest and land management experience to Congaree Land Trust. An avid outdoorsman, Gordon's favorite natural areas in South Carolina include the Calhoun County bluffs. He looks forward to getting outside, monitoring properties, and working with landowners to conserve their land.

Last week, our Executive Director Stuart White and our Board President Trip Chavis, had the opportunity to attend the Sustain SC Symposium - engaging with leaders in business and conservation, and exploring innovative ways to work together to keep SC thriving, for our people and our environment.

This year, our fall event will be hosted at the beautiful Sans Souci Farm in Sumter, SC. Established before 1750, this historic property boasts rich heritage and breathtaking views that stretch miles into the High Hills of Santee, overlooking the Wateree River basin. Originally a summer residence for the Rutledge brothers, the farm's legacy continues today with Registered Brangus and Black Angus cattle grazing on its 680 acres. Despite losing the original house to a fire in 1934, its ruins stand as a testament to the past. With a conservation easement held by the Congaree Land Trust, we’re proud to support this cherished land. Join us for a day of connection, history, and gorgeous scenery at Sans Souci Farm on November 10th. Reserve your tickets today by visiting the event page here: https://bit.ly/3U2HCIB.

Congaree Land Trust is excited to welcome Nora Shaughnessy to its team in the role of Communications Manager. Nora is a Philadelphia-area native and graduate of Temple University. She has previously worked in marketing and communications in the education non-profit sector, supporting first-generation students. In her free time Nora enjoys cooking, traveling, and taking care of her plants! She has recently completed a M.S. in Marketing from the University of South Wales and is excited to put those skills to work at CLT!

National Public Lands Day is September 28! Established in 1994 and held annually on the fourth Saturday in September, National Public Lands Day brings out thousands of volunteers to help restore and improve public lands around the country. Make plans to celebrate by visiting some of YOUR amazing public lands. Here are a few suggested locations in the COWASEE Basin area -?Congaree National Park (admission is FREE to National Parks on this day), Poinsett State Park, Manchester State Forest, Congaree Bluff Heritage Preserve, Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve, Wateree Heritage Preserve, the Palmetto Trail and our local Riverwalks.?

CONSERVATION DIRECTOR Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the?Conservation Director?is a vital leader within CLT's acquisition team, responsible for managing new land acquisitions in alignment with CLT’s policies and conservation goals. The Conservation Director’s role encompasses overseeing fee land and conservation easement transactions, educating the public and partners on land protection, fostering innovative partnerships, and exploring creative methods to secure long-term land and water protection.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the?Communications & Outreach Manager?supports the conservation mission of Congaree Land Trust through the execution of the organization’s marketing, communications, and outreach strategy. The Manager will lead all internal and external communications, ensuring consistency, effectiveness, and enhancing the Land Trust’s reputation among stakeholders and the community. Additional responsibilities include assisting with CLT events.?