Highlights:

• A successful Conservation Coalition Lobby Day
• SC Land Trusts celebrate protected land  
• Coming up this week: Energy Security Act (H.3309) and a bill to help local governments plan for growth

The 22nd Annual SC Conservation Coalition Lobby Day was a remarkable show of support for conservation among the Coalition’s 60+ member organizations and the 150+ advocates who packed the lobby. I was particularly impressed with the lawmakers who took the time to listen, ask questions, and thank advocates for engaging with them on the following issues:

• pollution accountability via the NPDES Signage Bill (S.139/H.4102);

• state protections for wetlands that are no longer under federal jurisdiction following the Sackett v EPA decision;

• legislation that advances clean energy, protects ratepayers, and encourages market solutions while minimizing risk to the environment in the SC Energy Security Act (H.3309) or another legislative vehicle; and

• tools to help local governments plan for growth via the Concurrency Bill (H.4050/S.227) and Transferrable Development Rights Bill (S.288)

Oyster Roast: A Well-Earned Celebration

After a full day of advocacy, we gathered at 701 Whaley Street for the annual Oyster Roast, where we swapped stories, strategized for the road ahead, and enjoyed some well-earned oysters. The event brought together advocates, partners, and legislators in a historic setting that reminded us of why we fight for South Carolina’s natural spaces—to keep this place beautiful, thriving, and full of life.

What’s next?

Lobby Day was just one moment in our year-long push for conservation progress. The relationships we built and the momentum we gained will carry us forward as we continue advocating for ways to protect our land, water, and communities. I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who participated in Lobby Day, whether you showed up in person, sent an email to your legislator, or cheered us on from afar.

If you couldn’t make it this year, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged:

• Reach out to your legislators – Let them know you support one of the Coalition priorities mentioned above or other important issues! Contact your elected officials here.

• Join us at the Statehouse – Missed Lobby Day but want the chance to talk with you lawmaker about conservation issues important to you? Reach out to me and we’ll schedule a day to visit the Statehouse together.

• Stay informed – Keep reading these updates and share them with your network! Issues often pop up fast at the Statehouse, so we’ll try to keep you informed about opportunities to get involved.

Now that the session is in full swing, stay tuned for opportunities to get involved and learn more about the legislative issues that affect our daily lives. We’ll continue to keep you informed on their progress and ways to get involved throughout the legislative session! 

Be well. Until next week...