2,700-acre Chelsea Plantation tract preserved as new Lowcountry state forest after community fight
JASPER COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - Thousands of acres of Lowcountry land once slated for massive residential and industrial development are now permanently protected, paving the way for a new state forest along the Beaufort and Jasper county lines.
The 2,700-acre Chelsea Plantation tract will soon open to the public under the South Carolina Forestry Commission’s management, following a multi-year effort by community members and conservation groups to halt development on the property.
Originally purchased in the 1940s, the historic property was later sold to developers aiming to build thousands of homes and secure rezoning for industrial development in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country.
Faced with sustained community backlash, the developers ultimately agreed to sell the property.
About a year ago, the land was acquired for $34 million by The Nature Conservancy, followed by an Open Land Trust conservation easement and collaborative partnerships involving local, state, and federal organizations.
Some of those groups include: Nature Conservancy, Open Land Trust, Jasper County Council, and the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
“We weren’t quite sure what we’re gonna do with it, whether it was going to become a public place or we would protect it with an easement and sell it back to a private buyer,” Senior Project Director with The Nature Conservancy David Bishop said. “There was a lot of pressure, and this place could have been thousands of homes. The developers were trying to upzone it and trying to get even more industrial development... but because the local citizens gave them so much trouble in their plans, we had the opportunity to negotiate a deal.”
The preserved tract boasts significant ecological value, featuring miles of water frontage, dense forest, and habitats for rare wildlife, including the red-cockaded woodpecker.
Conservation leaders described the preservation as a lasting legacy for the surrounding community.
“It was always a wonder of what this property was going to become, and it was everybody trying to figure out how we were going to do it,” Director of Conservation for the Open Land Trust Caylor Romines said. “I think it’s a true win for the community to now be able to come out and enjoy this space and enjoy it forever. They are going to be able to bring generations out here and tell their kids and grandkids about the fight they had and why it’s worth it to stand up for what you believe in.”
When the state forest officially opens, officials say very little will change on the pristine landscape aside from taking down private property signs and establishing public entrances.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission is currently evaluating the property and developing a comprehensive management plan.
An official opening date for the public will be announced once that evaluation is complete.
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