The Nature Conservancy announces largest conservation easement in Laurens County history
The Nature Conservancy has secured the largest conservation easement in Laurens County history with the permanent protection of the 2,000-acre Creekland Farms property, the global conservation nonprofit announced June 6.
The family-owned farm will remain in private ownership and will be managed for forestry, agriculture, and recreational uses according to the landowner’s wishes but will be permanently protected against development.
“As the third fastest growing county in the Upstate, the fields, forests, and waterways of Laurens County are under tremendous growth pressure,” said Dale Threatt-Taylor, TNC South Carolina’s executive director. “Thanks to the long-term vision of a generous local family, this property is now protected forever.”
Over multiple generations, Creekland Farms has raised champion Hereford and Polled shorthorn cattle, Rhode Island Red chickens, and thoroughbred horses on property adjoining the 170,000-acre Enoree District of the Sumter National Forest.
Among the reasons cited for seeking the permanent protections offered by a conservation easement, the landowner was mindful of the continued growth in the area and the farm’s proximity to Columbia, Spartanburg and Greenville, according to TNC.
“Placing private land under the permanent protection of a conservation easement is a way for a family to make sure their values carry forward forever,” said Katherine McWilliams, TNC-SC’s director of land protection. “Protecting large properties like this one from development also helps balance future growth with the need to maintain clean air and water and wildlife habitat.”
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