Pickens County Secures 1,100 Acres for Conservation in Historic Victory

Pickens County Celebrates Major Land Protection Milestone

In a heartwarming move for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, residents of Pickens County have much to cheer about! On November 13, Naturaland Trust, alongside various conservation groups and state agencies, revealed a monumental victory in their efforts to preserve the great outdoors. This exciting announcement introduced the acquisition of nearly 1,100 acres in the breathtaking Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, marking a historic moment for conservation in South Carolina.

A New Jewel in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Prepare to be in awe, because the newly protected land, known as the Saluda Bluffs property, stretches over 1,090 acres and acts as the crown jewel amidst the stunning views found at Caesars Head, Table Rock, and Jones Gap state parks. These parks not only form a picturesque corner of South Carolina but also play a vital role in attracting locals and tourists alike who love to bask in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

At the press conference announcing this exciting acquisition, Naturaland Trust leaders were joined by many esteemed partners in conservation and state funding. This acquisition is particularly significant as it was the largest privately held, unprotected property in the county, making it a key piece of land that has long been sought after for preservation. “This is the realization of Tommy Wyche’s vision for protecting South Carolina’s mountain corridor,” said Mac Stone, executive director of Naturaland Trust, speaking passionately about the mission behind the effort.

Financial Support Paves the Way

Securing the Saluda Bluffs was no small feat! Naturaland Trust pulled together a historic $9 million refundable grant from the South Carolina Conservation Bank, showcasing the commitment to preserving this beautiful area. The money will be reimbursed through a collaboration of funds, with $2 million from the South Carolina Office of Resilience and a $7 million allocation from the Department of Natural Resources. Mark your calendars, folks, because in early 2025, this incredible expanse will be transformed into the South Saluda Wildlife Management Area, open for public enjoyment!

Protecting Our Waterways

This initiative wasn’t just about preserving land; it was also about ensuring the protection of our precious resources. The Saluda River floodplain was a significant concern for the Office of Resilience. Ben Duncan, the office’s chief resilience officer, emphasized the importance of protecting the river’s water quality. Supporting this initiative, Easley Combined Utilities stepped up to contribute $500,000 for the land acquisition, proving that safeguarding drinking water at its source is much more effective than attempting to treat it later.

A Scenic Big Picture

The news continues to flow, as Mac Stone shared that this incredible property acts as the scenic bullseye amid more than 10,000 acres of neighboring protected lands. It also features essential access along the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway 11, making it an even more valuable addition to the region. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted to know that this acquisition grants access to a part of the South Saluda River, known for its trout fishing spots—perfect for those passionate about casting a line in natural surroundings.

The Role of Collaboration

This tremendous project highlights what can be accomplished when communities come together with a shared purpose. The former owner, Hans Menzel, previously operated Menzel US in Spartanburg, and his cooperation with Naturaland Trust played a pivotal role in making this dream a reality.

As Pickens County celebrates this collaborative achievement, there’s no doubt that the newly protected Saluda Bluffs property will become an essential part of the community’s outdoor adventures and environmental efforts. Keep your eyes peeled for more developments in this ongoing conservation story—it seems the best is yet to come!