After 33 years, Congaree Land Trust (CLT) has permanently protected more than 100,000 acres of land across central South Carolina, including land in Lexington County, at the Northeast corner of the county.

The milestone was reached with the recent protection of Alston Farm in Sumter County.

"This achievement is a result of the extraordinary dedication and hard work of our staff, board, and volunteers—those with us now and those whose foundational efforts paved the way," Trip Chavis of CLT’s Board of Directors said in the press release. "Their instrumental contributions have been vital to CLT's successes.”

Founded in 1992 as a volunteer initiative, CLT has since evolved into a nationally accredited land trust supported by a growing community of conversation-minded partners. Over the years, the organization has worked with private landowners and public agencies to conserve more than 45,000 acres of wetlands, 34,000 acres of forestland and 61,000 acres of prime farmland.

“With more than two dozen active conservation projects underway, CLT is accelerating efforts to safeguard the working farms, forests, wetlands, and open spaces that define our region and sustain its future,” Stuart White, CLT executive director, said. “The protection of these 100,000 acres is a testament to what we can achieve together, but it also serves as a powerful call to action for the critical work ahead.”

According to the organization, these protected landscapes help sustain South Carolina’s outdoor economy, provide climate resiliency, ensure clean air and water and support a high quality of life for residents and future generations.

More information can be found at congareelt.org