News

The South Carolina Land Trust Network announced today that Lyles Cooper, Executive Director of Pee Dee Land Trust, has assumed the Board Chair role. She succeeds Ashley Demosthenes, who recently became the CEO of the Land Trust Alliance. Cooper has been a respected leader within the network, having served multiple terms as Treasurer and as one of the founding board members when the organization secured its 501(c)(3) status and appointed its first executive director.

Beginning her career in conservation almost thirty years ago, Ashley Demosthenes now serves as President and CEO of the Lowcountry Land Trust (LLT) and brings a wealth of knowledge to the South Carolina Land Trust Network (SCLTN).

September 5, 2024 - Columbia, SC - The South Carolina Land Trust today honored Senator Nikki Setzler for his lifetime of contributions to conservation in South Carolina. During the organization's Fall Member meeting, Setzler was presented with a coffee table book on the Cowassee Basin, an expansive area in the heart of Senate District 26 which he has represented for the last forty-eight years. Inside the front cover was a signed Board Resolution that read: In recognition and profound appreciation of Senator Nikki Setzler’s Service to the State of South Carolina Whereas South Carolina is blessed with rich and abundant natural, historical, and cultural resources and remarkable beauty; Whereas protecting these special places is paramount to our enviable quality of life and to the thousands of jobs provided by industries that depend on natural places; Whereas effective land protection work relies on committed people and proactive policies; Whereas for forty-seven years, Senator Nikki Setzler has served the people of South Carolina through his leadership in the South Carolina Senate, notably as Chairman of the Senate Finance Natural Resources and Economic Development Subcommittee; Whereas his bipartisan efforts to reauthorize the South Carolina Conservation Bank have ensured the permanent protection of hundreds of special places, including the recently expanded Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve; Whereas he has championed conservation funding and voted in support of policies that financially incentivize private landowners to permanently protect their working farm and forestlands; Whereas his steadfast leadership has positioned investment in voluntary land conservation as an essential aspect of state governance to balance growth with quality of life today and for future generations:  Now, therefore, be it Resolved that the South Carolina Land Trust Network Board of Directors this fifth day of September 2024 formally acknowledges and extends its deepest appreciation for Senator Nikki Setzler’s exemplary service to the people of South Carolina.

Lowcountry Land Trust is proud to announce the acquisition of the 266-acre Knight Tract in Dorchester County. This project represents a significant step toward achieving a long-held conservation goal: connecting the 13,000+ acres of protected land at Norfolk Southern’s Brosnan Forest and the more than 12,300 contiguous protected acres within and surrounding Audubon South Carolina’s Beidler Forest. R ead more.

The Open Space Institute (OSI), in coordination with Francis Marion University (FMU), the South Carolina Office of Resilience (SCOR), South Carolina Conservation Bank (SCCB), Darla Moore Foundation, Florence County and a coalition of additional partners, has acquired nearly 8,500 acres in Florence and Darlington Counties. Read more.

In a transformative step for conservation and community, the Open Space Institute (OSI) and Open Land Trust (OLT) are proud to announce the permanent protection of more than 1,700 acres of ecologically vital land at the intersection of three counties and two rivers. This initiative—which will ultimately save nearly 3,000 acres—will create a new state forest in southwest South Carolina, safeguarding vital water resources and cultural heritage for generations to come. Read more.

Dorchester County Greenbelt Program and Lowcountry Land Trust are proud to announce the permanent protection of the Barry Tract, a 67-acre property along the historic Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway. The Land Trust has officially recorded a conservation easement and transferred ownership of the property to the County, ensuring its transformation into a passive public park that will provide residents and visitors with recreational access to the State Scenic Ashley River. Read more.

The Sam Carlton Room, a beautiful, light-filled gathering space at the heart of the Center for Conservation, honors the life and legacy of former Land Trust board member and dedicated forester, Sam Carlton. Known for his calm demeanor, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Lowcountry, Sam was a beloved conservationist whose influence continues to inspire. Read more.

Lowcountry Land Trust welcomes Jack Alexander, GIS & Conservation Planning Manager, to our team. He plays a pivotal role in planning for, documenting, and reporting on land protected in perpetuity by the organization. Read more.

The Open Space Institute (OSI) and Berkeley County have completed a significant conservation feat: the acquisition of Blessing Plantation in Huger, South Carolina. Set in the heart of the Cooper River Historic District, the nearly 630-acre property will ultimately become a new county park— offering long-desired public access to fishing and kayaking, and offering a one-of-a-kind public recreation experience on a former colonial-era rice plantation. Read more.

Lowcountry Land Trust is proud to announce the permanent protection of a 37-acre property on Johns Island that the same family has stewarded for more than 115 years. The conservation of this beloved land not only preserves vital agricultural soils, forested wetlands, and wildlife habitat but also honors the island’s deep-rooted rural character, reinforcing Charleston County’s Urban Growth Boundary and helping to manage growth and resiliency in the region. Read more.

The 302-acre Korn Tract will soon be added to the 1,700-acre Aiken Gopher Tortoise Heritage Preserve. Aiken Land Conservancy purchased this property to protect the many rare species that call it home, and will soon transfer ownership to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Read more.

Application Instructions: Please email a cover letter, resume, and three (3) references in one PDF addressed to careers@lowcountrylandtrust.org by January 9, 2026. POSITION SUMMARY The Stewardship Associate II is a self-starter on the Conservation team, working to conserve and protect the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, with a significant number of concurrent projects underway at all times. The Stewardship Associate II works in close partnership with the Stewardship Program Director and other Conservation staff to ensure all stewardship responsibilities on privately protected land and fee simple properties are met with the highest level of professionalism. RESPONSIBILITIES Monitor and steward a portfolio of protected land interests annually, developing landowner relationships, completing required annual monitoring reports thoroughly and timely, and providing prompt feedback to landowners and Stewardship staff. Property management and stewardship of fee simple properties, including two (2) current lessee-occupied working farms. Seasonal supervisor and mentor responsibilities for stewardship college intern(s). Respond to landowner and lessee inquiries and requests in a timely manner and in collaboration with the Stewardship Program Director. Assist the Stewardship Program Director and General Counsel in effectively and efficiently resolving emergent issues and potential or actual violations on protected properties, in accordance with accepted policies and procedures, and employing high sensitivity and professionalism. Oversee a subset of issues to resolution, including legal compliance, easement interpretations, and requests for amendments or discretionary consent. Maintain up-to-date records on activities occurring on protected lands, including documenting and detailing emails, meetings, phone calls, etc. Engage and educate landowners on stewardship and conservation opportunities, including land or resource management. Pursue continuing education and professional certifications as appropriate and/or as directed by the supervisor. Assist Conservation staff on special projects or project development as assigned by the supervisor. Work with staff on, and actively contribute to, achieving the strategic goals of the organization. Other Duties as Required: The above statements describe the general nature and level of work an employee assigned to this position performs. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. All staff members may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time. Onboarding is in-person, and employees meet in person at least once per month for a staff meeting and occasionally throughout the year for staff group events. QUALIFICATIONS Required: Bachelor’s degree with experience in environmental or land conservation, resource management, or similar fields. Minimum of two (2) years of work experience preferred. Property or land management experience, with agricultural or farm experience preferred. Physical ability to travel to remote and undeveloped properties, hike/walk or otherwise travel in a variety of environmental conditions, and be outdoors for considerable periods of time. Valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and regular access to reliable transportation. Ability to interpret and comprehend legal and technical documents. Demonstrated organizational skills managing multiple projects with the ability to move quickly from one to another while maintaining thorough records. Detail and goal-oriented, with the ability to exercise independent judgment in completing tasks, prioritizing, and meeting deadlines. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to confront challenges with utmost sensitivity and professionalism.. Familiarity with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and other business software; experience with conservation databases such as Landscape and Lens a plus. Positive attitude and willingness to accept a challenge. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and partners. Physical ability to sit at a desk with a computer or in meetings for long periods. Lowcountry Land Trust is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity, and to comply with all federal, state, and local laws that apply to equal employment. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train, and promote individuals, as well as administer any and all personnel actions, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, civil union status, domestic partnership status, affectional or sexual orientation or identity, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, marital status, status as a disabled or Vietnam era veteran, service in the federal or state military, union affiliation, pregnancy or breastfeeding, medical or genetic information, atypical hereditary cellular blood trait, refusal to submit to a genetic test or make test results available to the Company, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, in accordance with applicable laws. The Land Trust also complies with the South Carolina Pregnancy Accommodation Act. Benefits Summary Insurance Health Insurance CoPay Plan with FSA (Flexible Spending Account) option Employee premium covered 90% by employer HDHP (High Deductible) Plans with HSA (Health Savings Account) option All medical costs are paid out of pocket until the deductible is met Employee premium covered 100% by employer Includes Employer HSA contribution Dental Insurance – Employee premium covered 100% by employer Group Life Insurance with AD&D ($25,000) – Employee premium covered 100% by employer Disability - Employee premium covered 100% by employer Optional benefits available – Paid by Employee: Health FSA & Dependent Care FSA HSA Accident Insurance Critical Illness Coverage Vision Care Voluntary Life Insurance Financial & Retirement 403(b) Eligibility: Age 21 and works at least 83 1/3 hours per month Immediate eligibility Up to 6% match after 6 months of employment Family & Parenting Family & Medical Leave Hybrid Work Environment (in-office/from home) Flexible Hours Paid Time Off Self-managed PTO 11 Paid Holidays Flexible Summer Schedule Read more.

Application Instructions: Please email a cover letter, resume, and three (3) references in one PDF addressed to careers@lowcountrylandtrust.org by January 9, 2026. POSITION SUMMARY The Stewardship Associate II is a self-starter on the Conservation team, working to conserve and protect the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, with a significant number of concurrent projects underway at all times. The Stewardship Associate II works in close partnership with the Stewardship Program Director and other Conservation staff to ensure all stewardship responsibilities on privately protected land and fee simple properties are met with the highest level of professionalism. RESPONSIBILITIES Monitor and steward a portfolio of protected land interests annually, developing landowner relationships, completing required annual monitoring reports thoroughly and timely, and providing prompt feedback to landowners and Stewardship staff. Property management and stewardship of fee simple properties, including two (2) current lessee-occupied working farms. Seasonal supervisor and mentor responsibilities for stewardship college intern(s). Respond to landowner and lessee inquiries and requests in a timely manner and in collaboration with the Stewardship Program Director. Assist the Stewardship Program Director and General Counsel in effectively and efficiently resolving emergent issues and potential or actual violations on protected properties, in accordance with accepted policies and procedures, and employing high sensitivity and professionalism. Oversee a subset of issues to resolution, including legal compliance, easement interpretations, and requests for amendments or discretionary consent. Maintain up-to-date records on activities occurring on protected lands, including documenting and detailing emails, meetings, phone calls, etc. Engage and educate landowners on stewardship and conservation opportunities, including land or resource management. Pursue continuing education and professional certifications as appropriate and/or as directed by the supervisor. Assist Conservation staff on special projects or project development as assigned by the supervisor. Work with staff on, and actively contribute to, achieving the strategic goals of the organization. Other Duties as Required: The above statements describe the general nature and level of work an employee assigned to this position performs. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. All staff members may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time. Onboarding is in-person, and employees meet in person at least once per month for a staff meeting and occasionally throughout the year for staff group events. QUALIFICATIONS Required: Bachelor’s degree with experience in environmental or land conservation, resource management, or similar fields. Minimum of two (2) years of work experience preferred. Property or land management experience, with agricultural or farm experience preferred. Physical ability to travel to remote and undeveloped properties, hike/walk or otherwise travel in a variety of environmental conditions, and be outdoors for considerable periods of time. Valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and regular access to reliable transportation. Ability to interpret and comprehend legal and technical documents. Demonstrated organizational skills managing multiple projects with the ability to move quickly from one to another while maintaining thorough records. Detail and goal-oriented, with the ability to exercise independent judgment in completing tasks, prioritizing, and meeting deadlines. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to confront challenges with utmost sensitivity and professionalism.. Familiarity with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and other business software; experience with conservation databases such as Landscape and Lens a plus. Positive attitude and willingness to accept a challenge. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and partners. Physical ability to sit at a desk with a computer or in meetings for long periods. Lowcountry Land Trust is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity, and to comply with all federal, state, and local laws that apply to equal employment. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train, and promote individuals, as well as administer any and all personnel actions, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, civil union status, domestic partnership status, affectional or sexual orientation or identity, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, marital status, status as a disabled or Vietnam era veteran, service in the federal or state military, union affiliation, pregnancy or breastfeeding, medical or genetic information, atypical hereditary cellular blood trait, refusal to submit to a genetic test or make test results available to the Company, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, in accordance with applicable laws. The Land Trust also complies with the South Carolina Pregnancy Accommodation Act. Benefits Summary Insurance Health Insurance CoPay Plan with FSA (Flexible Spending Account) option Employee premium covered 90% by employer HDHP (High Deductible) Plans with HSA (Health Savings Account) option All medical costs are paid out of pocket until the deductible is met Employee premium covered 100% by employer Includes Employer HSA contribution Dental Insurance – Employee premium covered 100% by employer Group Life Insurance with AD&D ($25,000) – Employee premium covered 100% by employer Disability - Employee premium covered 100% by employer Optional benefits available – Paid by Employee: Health FSA & Dependent Care FSA HSA Accident Insurance Critical Illness Coverage Vision Care Voluntary Life Insurance Financial & Retirement 403(b) Eligibility: Age 21 and works at least 83 1/3 hours per month Immediate eligibility Up to 6% match after 6 months of employment Family & Parenting Family & Medical Leave Hybrid Work Environment (in-office/from home) Flexible Hours Paid Time Off Self-managed PTO 11 Paid Holidays Flexible Summer Schedule

Guest blogger: Sebrenna Bryant, state outreach coordinator for USDA's Farm Service Agency (SC) Boasting a robust agricultural landscape of nearly 23,000 farms sprawled across 4.5 million acres of fertile land, South Carolina is a state deeply rooted in agriculture. The Farm Service Agency (FSA) in South Carolina plays a pivotal role in supporting this thriving agriculture economy by managing acreage reports for nearly 2 million acres and aiding farmers' participation in approximately 20 different FSA programs. By doing this, the FSA in South Carolina not only supports USDA's mission but also contributes significantly to maintaining a healthy, stable, accessible, and affordable food supply for all. Historically, FSA traces its roots back to the Great Depression, when the Farm Security Administration was created to help American farmers amid a challenging time. And while the agency’s name and mission have both changed and grown over the years, its commitment to helping farmers has not. Today, FSA plays a crucial role in supporting rural prosperity, improving the environment, and contributing to U.S. national security by helping to ensure a safe, affordable, and abundant food supply. Over the years, FSA’s available programs have expanded to include safety net, farm loan, conservation, and disaster assistance programs. These programs ensure producers have a strong safety net in place in case of natural disasters or market fluctuations. FSA farm loans are available for producers who want to get started in production agriculture or make investments in existing operations but are unable to obtain credit from private lenders. FSA conservation programs give landowners the tools and resources to protect environmentally sensitive land and restore grasslands and forests, leading to cleaner water and air, healthier soil and enhanced wildlife habitat. FSA’s flagship conservation program, the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), is a voluntary program that encourages agricultural producers and landowners to convert highly erodible and other environmentally sensitive acreage to vegetative cover, such as native grasses, trees, and riparian buffers. The benefits of CRP are far-reaching. CRP protects more than 20 million acres of American topsoil from erosion and is designed to safeguard the nation’s natural resources. With over 22,000 acres enrolled in CRP in South Carolina, several landowners have utilized CRP in our home state, with the hope that the increased vegetation would lead to increased wildlife habitat, including bobwhite quail. This has been seen as a great success. Although the terms of CRP and land trusts may differ, with land trusts often encouraging permanent easements, both entities share conservation goals to support farmers and ranchers, and to protect environmentally sensitive land.  Together, FSA and land trusts can help landowners understand the wide scope of available options for preserving and protecting their property, while helping South Carolina to achieve a greater impact in protecting farmland and promoting sustainable agriculture for generations to come. W.R. “Cody” Simpson, III, was appointed by the Trump Administration to serve as the State Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency in South Carolina in May 2025. He has spent his lifetime protecting the Palmetto State’s agricultural heritage and growing its future. Simpson supports wetland conservation through Ducks Unlimited and collaborates with the Pee Dee Land Trust to safeguard natural habitats.