Since 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust has protected more than 165,000 acres primarily through the acquisition of conservation easements. Conservation easements are a legal agreement entered into voluntarily by both the landowner and Land Trust. Within the easement is a promise, fulfilled by both parties, to protect land forever. The land remains the property of the landowner, and the easement stays with the land, regardless of sale or inheritance.

Lowcountry Land Trust can purchase land outright through fee-simple acquisition. In select, highly strategic cases, Lowcountry Land Trust has used this tool to get ahead of an impending threat or to offset environmental impacts associated with economic development projects. While many of the lands we protect are privately owned, some are purchased by us and made publicly accessible, such as the future Angel Oak Preserve. These ambassador sites emphasize the importance of accessibility of South Carolina’s land and water and elevate the relevance of conservation to the community.

Lowcountry Land Trust’s stewardship team has the primary responsibility for monitoring and supporting compliance with Lowcountry Land Trust’s 565+ conservation easements and fee-simple lands. This work is completed annually for each property to uphold the Land Trust Accreditation Commission’s indicator elements.