South Carolina SCORP - Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals

SOUTH CAROLINA
STATE COMPREHENSIVE OUTDOOR
RECREATION PLAN
(SCORP)
2008
MARK SANFORD
Governor of South Carolina
CHAD PROSSER
Director, South Carolina Department of
Parks, Recreation and Tourism
South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Recreation, Planning and Engineering Office
1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 246
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
803-734-0173
www.discoversouthcarolina.com
www.scprt.com
Tony Bebber, Planning Manager
803-734-0189
The Matheny-Burns Group
Post Office Box 1645
Lexington, South Carolina 29071
(803) 356-9475
The preparation of this report was financed by the
South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special thanks go to the following:
The Matheny-Burns Group, the planning and resource development consulting firm
that provided research and technical assistance in the preparation of the SCORP draft
and final report. This assistance included the facilitation of five public workshops and
the Interagency Focus Group Meeting, as well as coordination with a number of State,
Federal, regional and local agencies and organizations that have contributed to the 2008
SCORP.
Dr. Robert Oldendick and his staff at the Survey Research Laboratory of the Institute
for Public Service and Policy Research, University of South Carolina, for their work on
the 2005 South Carolina Recreation Participation & Preference Study.
Yun Poungthana, Art Director of the SCPRT Sales and Marketing Office, for the
graphic design of the cover and valuable assistance with printing specifications and
process.
Mary Stewart, Office Manager of the SCPRT Recreation, Planning and Engineering
Office, for always providing cheerful assistance and patience.
The Lamar Branch of the Darlington County Library, the Charleston County Parks
& Recreation Commission, Barnwell State Park, the Appalachian Council of
Governments, the Central Midlands Council of Governments, and Sesquicentennial
State Park for the use of meeting facilities for the regional public workshops.
Numerous workshop participants and representatives of the more than 50 agencies
and organizations that actively participated in the SCORP planning process, provided
current information and data, submitted recommendations and contributed valuable
comments and insight for the draft document.
The main cover photo of this publication is of Caesars Head State Park and the back cover
photo is of Hickory Knob State Resort Park. The back inset photos were taken at the following
State Parks: Colleton State Park (left photo), Hunting Island State Park (center photo),
and Table Rock State Park (right photo).
The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism does not discriminate on the basis of race,
color, sex, national origin, age, or handicap in its programs and activities. If anyone believes he or she has been
subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or handicap, he or she may file a
complaint alleging discrimination with either the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism,
1205 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, or the Office of Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of the Interior,
Washington, DC 29240.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE ................................................................................................................................. i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .......................................................................................................... ii
GOVERNOR’S LETTER ............................................................................................................ iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................................. iv
LIST OF FIGURES, CHARTS AND TABLES ...................................................................... v-vi
ACRONYMS .............................................................................................................................. vii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................ E1-E19
I.
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 1
II.
STATE PROFILE
A. GEOGRAPHIC PROFILE .................................................................................... 2-5
B. DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE ................................................................................ 5-9
C. ECONOMIC PROFILE ....................................................................................... 9-10
III.
2002 SCORP ACCOMPLISHMENTS ................................................................. 11-15
IV.
STATE OUTDOOR RECREATION GOALS
A. LEGISLATIVE GOALS .................................................................................. 16-17
B. SCPRT MISSION AND GOALS ..................................................................... 17-18
C. SCORP GOALS ..................................................................................................... 18
V.
SCORP PLANNING PROCESS............................................................................. 19-20
VI.
SCORP PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS.................................................. 21-22
VII.
STATE OUTDOOR RECREATION ASSESSMENT
A. RECREATION RESOURCES ............................................................................ 23-66
B. ASSESSMENT OF DEMAND ........................................................................... 66-94
C. ISSUE IDENTIFICATION AND PRIORITIZATION ..................................... 94-101
VIII
SCORP IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM
A. FUTURE NEEDS .............................................................................................102-103
B. RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................. 103-114
IX.
SELECTED REFERENCES.................................................................................115-120
X.
APPENDICES
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
RECREATION PARTICIPATION BY PLANNING DISTRICT .................. 121-131
SOUTH CAROLINA HERITAGE PRESERVES .......................................... 132-140
LIST OF SAMPLE GRANTS AND FUNDING SOURCES.......................... 141-145
SUMMARY OF FEDERAL LEGISLATION........................................................ 146
SUMMARY OF PUBLIC WORKSHOPS AND COMMENTS..................... 147-157
2002 SCORP ACCOMPLISHMENTS............................................................ 158-171
iv
LIST OF FIGURES, CHARTS AND TABLES
FIGURES
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
Figure 3.
Figure 4.
Figure 5.
PAGE
South Carolina Surface Water .............................................................................. 3
South Carolina Planning Districts and MSAs ...................................................... 6
South Carolina Population Change by County, 1990-2000 ................................. 7
South Carolina Population Density by County, 2000 ........................................... 8
South Carolina State Park Service ........................................................................ 27
CHARTS
Chart 1.
Chart 2.
Chart 3.
Chart 4.
Chart 5.
Chart 6.
Chart 7.
Chart 8.
Chart 9.
PAGE
2002 SCORP Priority Implementation Issues ..................................................... 11
SC State Park Service 2003 Strategic Management Goals ................................ 24
Design Recommendations for an Aging Society ................................................. 85
2008 SCORP Priority Issues ........................................................................... 95-97
Key Issues Facing Outdoor Recreation .............................................................. 98
Suggested Actions and Solutions to Key Outdoor Recreation Issues ........... 98-99
Issues of National Concern ........................................................................ 100-101
Outdoor Recreation Guiding Policy and Planning Principles .......................... 102
2008 SCORP Implementation Issues ........................................................ 103-104
TABLES
PAGE
Table 1.
Table 2.
Table 3.
Table 4.
Table 5.
Table 6.
Table 7.
Table 8.
Table 9.
Table 10.
Table 11.
Table 12.
Table 13.
Table 14.
Table 15.
Table 16.
Table 17.
Table 18.
Table 19.
Table 20.
Table 21.
Table 22.
Major Reservoirs in South Carolina ...................................................................... 4
South Carolina Population by MSA ..................................................................... 6
South Carolina Population by Regional Planning Area ........................................ 7
South Carolina Population by Age ........................................................................ 9
South Carolina Population by Race and Ethnicity ................................................ 9
South Carolina State Park Service Facilities ................................................... 25-26
National and State Designated Scenic Rivers in SC ............................................ 29
South Carolina Trail Mileage by Type of Use ..................................................... 32
Popular South Carolina Public Trails ............................................................. 35-36
South Carolina Scenic Highways .................................................................... 37-38
Recreational Facilities at Thurmond, Hartwell and Russell Lakes ..................... 43
South Carolina Land Trust Network ............................................................... 48-51
Summary of Resource Category River Miles in SC............................................. 52
Important Wetlands in South Carolina ............................................................ 55-56
Summary of Grants Funded by the SC Conservation Bank, FY 2004-2007........ 63
Statewide Recreation Participation Trends .................................................... 68-69
Average Recreation Participation per SC Resident by Activity...................... 70-71
Total Participation in Recreational Activities ................................................. 71-72
Statewide Recreation Participation by Age Group.......................................... 73-74
Statewide Recreation Participation by Gender ............................................... 75-76
Statewide Recreation Participation by Family Income .................................. 77-78
Statewide Recreation Participation by Race ................................................... 78-79
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LIST OF FIGURES, CHARTS AND TABLES
TABLES
PAGE
Table 23.
Persons with Disabilities Rehabilitated by the SC Vocational ............................ 87
Rehabilitation Department, Fiscal Years 2001-2004
Poverty Status for South Carolina Residents by Age ........................................... 89
2008 SCORP Implementation Strategies .................................................. 105-114
State Recreation Participation, Appalachian Planning District ......................... 122
State Recreation Participation, Upper Savannah Planning District ................... 123
State Recreation Participation, Catawba Planning District ............................... 124
State Recreation Participation, Central Midlands Planning District ................. 125
State Recreation Participation, Lower Savannah Planning District .................. 126
State Recreation Participation, Santee-Lynches Planning District .................... 127
State Recreation Participation, Pee Dee Planning District ................................ 128
State Recreation Participation, Waccamaw Planning District .......................... 129
State Recreation Participation, Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester ........................ 130
Planning District
State Recreation Participation, Lowcountry Planning District .......................... 131
Table 24.
Table 25.
Table 26.
Table 27.
Table 28.
Table 29.
Table 30.
Table 31.
Table 32.
Table 33.
Table 34.
Table 35.
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SCORP ACRONYMS
ACE:
Ashepoo-Combahee-Edisto Rivers
ADA:
Americans with Disabilities Act
ATV:
All-Terrain Vehicle
BMPs:
Best Management Practices
COG:
Council of Governments
CORPS:
US Army Corps of Engineers
DU:
Ducks Unlimited
FERC:
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
GIS:
Geographic Information System
HLTF:
Heritage Land Trust Fund (State)
KVLT:
Katawba Valley Land Trust
LWCF:
Land and Water Conservation Fund (Federal)
NERR:
National Estuarine Research Reserve
NF:
National Forest
NPS:
National Park Service
NRCS:
Natural Resources Conservation Service (formerly Soil Conservation Service)
NRT:
National Recreation Trail
OCRM:
Ocean and Coastal Resources Management Office (SCDHEC)
OHV:
Off-Highway Vehicle
OPSP:
Open Project Selection Process
OSHA:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
PARD:
Parks and Recreation Development Fund (State)
PCF:
Palmetto Conservation Foundation
QU:
Quail Unlimited
RAC:
State Forests Recreational Advisory Council
RELT:
Recreation Land Trust Fund (State)
RTP:
Recreational Trails Program Fund (Federal)
SAFETEA-LU: Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act/Legacy for Users
SC:
South Carolina
SCDAH:
South Carolina Department of Archives and History
SCDHEC: South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
SCDNR:
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
SCDOT:
South Carolina Department of Transportation
SCE&G:
South Carolina Electric and Gas Company
SCFC:
South Carolina Forestry Commission
SCORP:
State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
SCPRT:
South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
SCRPA:
South Carolina Recreation and Parks Association
TEA 21:
Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century
TU:
Trout Unlimited
UPARR:
Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Program (Federal)
USDA:
United States Department of Agriculture
USFS:
United States Forest Service
USFWS:
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
WMA:
Wildlife Management Area
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The 2008 State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) is South Carolina’s official
outdoor recreation plan and serves as a guide to Federal, State and local governmental agencies
and non-profit and private sector entities involved in recreation and natural resources planning
and development. The purpose of the Plan is to consider outdoor recreation issues relating to the
needs of both residents and visitors to South Carolina, examine the State's recreational resources,
analyze demand for recreational opportunities, develop an implementation program to address
the identified needs and issues, identify funding opportunities, and identify issues of state and
national importance. The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
(SCPRT) is the designated agency responsible for outdoor recreation planning in the State to
include the update of the SCORP every five years.
The SCORP process provides an opportunity for a variety of agencies and organizations to
communicate upcoming projects, leverage limited resources, and coordinate activities. The
SCORP is used as a guide for distribution of State recreation grant funds such as the Recreation
Land Trust (RELT) Fund and the Parks and Recreation and Development (PARD) Fund. The
SCORP meets the National Park Service requirements for a state plan and serves as the planning
document for the disbursement of South Carolina's share of the Federal Land and Water
Conservation Fund (LWCF), administered by the National Park Service of the US Department of
the Interior, and as a guide for the distribution of the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Fund.
The Plan is also used by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the USDA Forest
Service, SCPRT, the SC Department of Natural Resources, and other State, regional and local
agencies and organizations to identify recreation usage patterns and needs.
State Profile
South Carolina is located in the heart of a region that is experiencing unprecedented growth. An
overview of the State’s geographic, population, and economic development trends provides a
glimpse into the challenges and opportunities faced by South Carolinians as we work to
accommodate growth while preserving and enhancing our State’s abundant natural resources and
quality of life. These conditions have a profound affect on recreation and tourism resources and
help define the direction and focus of outdoor recreation planning in the Palmetto State.
South Carolina ranks 40th in land area among the fifty states at more than 32,000 square
miles. The State offers a full range of topographic features – from the mountains and
foothills of the southern Blue Ridge; to the rolling Piedmont, Sandhills, and broad Coastal
Plains; and to the coastal barrier islands and expansive beaches on the Atlantic Ocean.
The State’s climate offers long summers and mild winters that provide year-round
recreational opportunities.
South Carolina benefits from an abundant supply of water in the form of lakes, streams,
rivers, wetlands and aquifers. There are 11,000 miles of permanently flowing rivers and
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streams in the State, or nearly one-half mile for every square mile of land surface. There are
also more than 1,600 lakes larger than 10 acres throughout the State. Of these lakes, 19
reservoirs that are larger than 1,000 acres each collectively account for more than 461,400
acres of surface water.
Almost one-fourth of the State (4.6 million acres) is considered wetlands. Only 4 other states
have a higher percentage of wetlands – Alaska, Florida, Louisiana and Maine. South
Carolina’s wetlands comprise nearly 12% of the total wetland area of the southeastern United
States. Of the State’s wetlands, 90% are freshwater and 10% consist of saltwater or brackish
marshland. Freshwater wetlands occur throughout the State and include freshwater marshes,
forested wetlands (primarily cypress-tupelo swamps and bottomland hardwood forests), and
isolated wetlands (Carolina bays, pocosins, potholes, mountain bogs, and sinkholes).
The State has 190 miles of coastline. The coastal beaches are the State’s greatest single
attraction among the various natural, historic, and man-made recreational resources and are
the focal point of the State's travel and tourism industry. The 60-mile Grand Strand contains
some of the Atlantic Coast's longest unbroken stretches of beaches. Other coastal resources
include 240 miles of Intracoastal Waterway, extensive saltwater marshes, and numerous bays
and sounds.
South Carolina has experienced steady population growth over the past three decades and is
currently the 10th fastest growing state in the nation. Between 1970 and 2000, the State’s
population grew by nearly 55%, from approximately 2.6 million to more than 4 million.
South Carolina’s population has become increasingly urbanized, with more than 60% of the
State now classified as urban. There are 10 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in South
Carolina that encompass 21 of the State’s 46 counties. The combined population for these
MSAs exceeds 3 million, with 75% of the State's population living within these 10
metropolitan areas.
The number of South Carolina households, at more than 1.5 million, has grown at a faster
rate than the population as a whole. This trend is the result of smaller family size with fewer
children, an increase in the number of single-parent households, longevity among the elderly
population, and delayed marriages. Household growth has been accompanied by a rise in the
median age of State residents to 35.4 years. These demographic trends will influence
outdoor recreation planning efforts in future years.
South Carolina ranks 7th highest in the nation in the overall percentage of minority
population. Caucasians and African-Americans comprise 68% and 29% of the State’s
population, respectively. The racial composition of the State’s population will continue to
change in the coming decades. Both the State’s Asian and Hispanic populations are
projected to more than double from 1990 to 2025, representing growth rates six times higher
than the South Carolina population as a whole.
Emerging from an agrarian tradition, the State has launched the transformation of its
economy into a diversified base of manufacturing, trade, services, and tourism. Tourism has
evolved into a major economic asset for the Palmetto State, with South Carolina hosting
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29 million domestic visitors annually for a total of 103 million visitor days. The State hosts
nearly 1 million international visitors each year, primarily from Canada and Europe.
The economic impact of tourism in South Carolina is significant and growing, generating $16
billion in annual economic activity. The tourism and travel industry now directly and
indirectly supports more than 216,000 jobs for South Carolinians and contributes $10.9
billion to the gross state product (GSP). This contribution to the GSP is anticipated to grow
to $17 billion by the year 2010.
Outdoor recreation plays an integral, yet largely untapped, role in South Carolina’s
burgeoning tourist industry. More than 11 million annual visitors participate in some form of
outdoor recreation during their trip. Coupled with heritage and cultural tourism, outdoor
recreation offers significant economic development opportunities for all regions of the State,
especially for our rural, inland communities.
Public Participation
Public participation in the SCORP process was generated through multiple forums that included
formal surveys, public workshops, interagency focus meetings, interviews, and web-based
review of planning documents:
South Carolina Recreational Resources Forum – In March 2005, SCPRT convened the
statewide Recreational Resources Forum, bringing together State, Federal, and local
agencies to explore common issues and share information related to public recreation
resources, as well as explore opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.
South Carolina Recreation Participation and Preference Study – SCPRT contracted with the
University of South Carolina's Institute for Public Service and Policy Research to conduct a
2005 telephone survey of more than 2,100 State residents aged 12 and older. Respondents
were asked a series of questions about their favorite recreational activities and actual
participation rates for almost four dozen recreational activities over the past year.
Participation in South Carolina State Survey – The USC Institute for Public Service and
Policy Research surveyed more than 800 South Carolinians in 2007 about issues such as the
role of SCPRT, the primary role of state parks, visits to state parks, state park services, and
environmental protection. A previous survey conducted in 2001 also included questions
related to the acquisition, prioritization and development of land for public open space and
trails.
Public Workshops – In October and November of 2007, SCPRT and the Matheny-Burns
Group conducted a series of five regional public workshops held in Greenville, Columbia,
North Charleston, Barnwell County, and Darlington County. News releases were distributed
to media, along with direct mail or email notification to representatives of more than 275
local parks and recreation departments, councils of government, State and Federal agencies
and public and private recreation interests. Participants in the regional workshops identified
60 recreational issues, which were subsequently refined into 15 major issues. An additional
15 emails were received that provided further commentary on issues, proposed actions, or
other recommendations for outdoor recreation in South Carolina.
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Interagency Focus Group Meeting – A broad representation of State, Federal, and local
organizations met in November 2007 to consider implementation strategies, partnerships and
resources to impact the identified outdoor recreation issues.
Draft Plan Review – Review and comments on the draft plan were requested from agency
and organization representatives, those attending the public workshops, and the general
public. This review was facilitated by posting the draft plan on the SCPRT website,
notifying planning participants and interested parties of its availability, and providing print
copies upon request to those lacking web access.
Recreation Resources
South Carolina is home to a variety of outdoor recreation resources ranging from public lands
and facilities provided by Federal, State, and local governments to private facilities and
properties open to the public or for exclusive use through ownership or lease. Demand for
recreational opportunities continues to grow as the State’s population grows, as more residents
and visitors expand interest and usage, and as residents and visitors alike seek new activities.
Public Facilities
There are numerous publicly-owned recreation facilities in South Carolina ranging from national
forests, national parks and state parks, to local parks and single purpose facilities such as boat
access ramps. The various public facilities in the State are developed and managed by multiple
agencies at different levels of government, with some recreational facilities leased from the
private sector. As traditional funding sources decline and maintenance and upgrade costs for
recreational facilities continue to increase, most public facilities have adopted user fees to offset
operational and maintenance costs.
State Parks
The South Carolina State Park Service is comprised of 48 state parks totaling more than 80,000
acres. Activities and events vary at each park but commonly include a combination of natural or
historical attractions, camping, lodging, picnicking, interpretive and educational programs,
swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, equestrian trails, playgrounds, biking, or community
buildings. These park properties contribute to the State’s protected base of natural and historic
areas, providing South Carolinians with public access to diverse outdoor experiences that are
representative of the State’s rich base of natural, cultural and historic resources.
Scenic Rivers
Nine South Carolina river segments have been designated State Scenic Rivers to date – the
Middle Saluda, Little Pee Dee (US 378 to the Greater Pee Dee River), Lower Saluda, Broad,
Lynches, Ashley, Black, Great Pee Dee and Little Pee Dee (Dillon County). Several others are
now considered eligible under the State Scenic River Program – the Congaree, Whitewater,
Thompson, Edisto and Little Pee Dee/Lumber. South Carolina also shares most of the Chattooga
National Wild and Scenic River along its northwestern border with the State of Georgia.
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State Forests
The South Carolina Forestry Commission manages five state forests in South Carolina - Sand
Hills in Chesterfield and Darlington Counties (46,000 acres), Harbison in Richland County
(2,177 acres), Poe Creek in Pickens County (1,806 acres), Manchester in Sumter County (28,000
acres), and Wee Tee in Williamsburg and Georgetown Counties (12,439 acres). A wide and
varied range of outdoor recreational activities are offered within each forest, ranging from
picnicking and fishing to equestrian and all-terrain vehicle trails.
Heritage Preserves
The SC Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) manages 70 State Heritage Preserves
totaling 81,409 acres throughout the State. These preserves range in size from 1 acre to more
than 18,000 acres and represent unique natural or cultural sites. Recreational opportunities at
most sites include trails and wildlife observation, with organized nature and historical outings,
picnicking, and hunting opportunities provided at many of the preserves.
Wildlife Management Areas
The SCDNR leases a total of 820,082 acres of public and private land for designated wildlife
management areas to provide game hunting opportunities for the public as part of its Wildlife
Management Area (WMA) Program. The Department also manages 212,682 acres of stateowned WMA land, including some Heritage Preserves, and provides hunting opportunities on
approximately 1 million acres of public and privately leased land.
Trails and Greenways
More than 2,800 miles of trails and greenways have been constructed and designated throughout
South Carolina, with additional trails and greenways in the planning stages. These resources are
managed by a variety of agencies and community-based groups and accommodate diverse landbased recreational activities including hiking, fitness walking, mountain biking, all-terrain
vehicles and motorcycles, and equestrian use, as well as water activities such as canoeing, rafting
and kayaking. Of particular note is the Palmetto Trail, which upon completion will link
numerous existing public lands and existing trail segments to form a mountains-to-the-sea trail.
Scenic Highways
South Carolina currently has more than 415 miles of designated Scenic Highways. The State has
three nationally designated Scenic Highways – the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway
in the Upstate, the Savannah River National Scenic Highway, and the Ashley River National
Scenic Highway in Charleston. The USDA Forest Service also designated 14.5 miles of SC
Highway 107 in Oconee County as the Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway. A 40-mile segment of
the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail tour route in South Carolina is managed by the
National Park Service.
National Forests
Two national forests encompass 630,000 acres in South Carolina. The Francis Marion National
Forest and the Sumter National Forest offer a wide range of recreational opportunities – from
world class whitewater rafting, kayaking and canoeing on the Chattooga National Wild and
Scenic River to a myriad of Lowcountry experiences on blackwater rivers and swamps and in
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maritime forests and marshes. Recreational opportunities are diverse and include hunting
(allowed on more than 600,000 of the 630,000 acres), shooting sports, white water boating, sea
kayaking, freshwater and saltwater fishing, shrimping, hiking, backpacking, boat ramps,
primitive camping, tent/RV camping, ATV and motorcycle riding, mountain biking, horseback
riding, interpretative trails and environmental education. More than 1 million visitors use these
forests each year.
National Parks
South Carolina is home to several nationally-significant park, monument, military, battlefield
and historic sites. Congaree National Park is the largest of these sites at more than 22,000 acres
and preserves the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the
United States. The Park was the 57th national park designated nationwide and is the only
national park in the State. The Park offers hiking trails, a boardwalk trail, wilderness canoe trail,
and areas for group and primitive camping and fishing. Other national park sites preserve and/or
interpret sites from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National
Monuments in Charleston County are two of the most visited National Park Service properties in
the State. Other historic sites include Kings Mountain National Military Park in York and
Cherokee Counties, Cowpens National Battlefield in Cherokee County, Charles Pinckney
National Historic Site (home site of a signer of the Declaration of Independence) in Charleston
County, and Ninety Six National Historic Site in Greenwood County. These national park sites
offer opportunities to explore the history of the nation through historic buildings, documentaries,
displays, trails, and tours.
National Wildlife Refuges
There are eight national wildlife refuges in South Carolina – Waccamaw, ACE Basin Refuge,
Savannah, Pinckney Island, Cape Romain, Santee, Carolina Sand Hills and Tybee. The refuges
total more than 173,000 acres and provide diverse recreational opportunities including nature
drives, wildlife observation, walking, bicycling, photography blinds, interpretive displays, hiking
trails, picnic facilities, fishing, canoeing/kayaking, hunting, and environmental education.
US Army Corps of Engineers Facilities
The US Army Corps of Engineers manages 325,000 acres of land and water along the Savannah
River. The three lake projects – Hartwell Lake, Richard B. Russell Lake, and J. Strom
Thurmond Lake – are among the largest Corps projects in the country. Visitors to all three lakes
enjoy a wide range of recreational activities including water sports, hunting, hiking, picnicking,
camping, boat ramps and fishing.
Local and Other Resources
Local governments in South Carolina maintain significant park areas and facilities. Locallyprovided facilities include more than 1,368 athletic fields; 187 community centers; 55
swimming pools; 591 playgrounds; 780 tennis courts; 456 outdoor and 124 indoor basketball
courts; 396 picnic shelters; 118 tracks for walking, jogging, and running; 368 trails for walking,
biking, hiking, horseback riding, and ATVs; and 41 water trails for canoeing and kayaking.
Museums, art exhibits, and other cultural facilities are also provided by organizations including
the SC Arts Commission, the SC Department of Archives and History, Patriots Point
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Development Authority, the SC Museum Commission, the SC State Library, and various local
governmental, institutional, non-profit, and private organizations.
Grant Resources
Traditional Federal funding sources for outdoor recreation have continued at level-funding or in
some cases, have declined. However, the State offers several grant opportunities to support
recreation initiatives, most of which are administered through SCPRT.
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) – LWCF is a federally-funded grant program
administered by SCPRT for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation areas by
local or state agencies.
Recreation Land Trust Fund (RELT) – Administered through SCPRT, RELT funds are
available to local governmental entities for the acquisition of land for public recreation
purposes.
Recreational Trails Program (RTP) – RTP is a federally-funded grant program available to
state, federal and local government agencies or qualified private organizations for the
purpose of building or improving trails.
Parks and Recreation Development Fund (PARD) – PARD is a state-funded, noncompetitive reimbursable grant program for eligible local governments or special purpose
districts which provide recreational opportunities within each county.
Tourism Partnership Program (TPP) – TPP provides grants to local governmental entities,
destination marketing organizations, public sector organizations and other non-profit groups
to support efforts to attract visitors and encourage visitor spending.
Heritage Corridor Development Grants – Grants are available to communities and non-profit
organizations located within the 14-county SC National Heritage Corridor to develop,
implement and maintain a successful heritage tourism attraction program that benefits and
attracts visitors to the area.
Additional opportunities are available through the SC Department of Archives and History and
the SC Department of Transportation.
Historic Preservation Grant Program – Through funding provided by the US Department of
Interior’s National Park Service, the SC Department of Archives and History administers the
State’s Historic Preservation Grant Program to support stabilization and weatherization
projects within the State’s 25 Certified Local Governments.
Transportation Enhancement Program Grants – SCDOT allocates Federal SAFETEA-LU
funds under the Transportation Enhancement Program to allow local governments the
opportunity to construct non-traditional transportation facilities to accommodate activities
such as bicycle and pedestrian facilities, streetscapes, scenic and landscaping programs, and
historic preservation.
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Private Facilities
Private recreation facilities for public use are available in many forms, including
baseball/softball fields provided by companies or civic groups; swimming, fishing and picnic
areas provided by utilities; and campgrounds, marinas, golf courses, historic sites, and stateleased hunting lands. In addition, private non-profit land trusts have been created throughout the
State in response to growing development pressures. These organizations are increasingly active
in the protection of natural and cultural resources through the permanent protection of properties
through land donation or purchase, or conservation easements.
Other Resources
South Carolina is blessed with a wealth of natural resources which have special attraction for
outdoor recreation. Rivers, wetlands and historic and culturally significant sites contribute to the
State’s rich recreation environment.
Though seriously impacted by recent drought conditions, South Carolina’s rivers have
historically been abundant and accessible, providing a myriad of recreational opportunities for
residents throughout the State. Most notable among these river resources are the Chattooga
National Wild and Scenic River and the nine designated State Scenic Rivers.
Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world, comparable to rain forests and
coral reefs. South Carolina’s 4.6 million acres of wetlands are important to outdoor recreation
because they support fishing, shellfishing, hunting, boating, wildlife observation and
photography, nature study, swimming, camping, hiking, historic sites, and walking for pleasure.
Plants and wildlife are abundant and many endangered, rare, or uncommon species exist in these
areas. Unfortunately, the US Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that South Carolina wetland
areas decreased by 27% during the last century, resulting in a loss of more than 1.75 million
acres of wetlands.
South Carolina has a wealth of historic and culturally significant places. The State has 1,365
listings, including 163 historic districts, in the National Register of Historic Places. These
listings include buildings, structures, and sites ranging from Native American campgrounds
dating to 8,000 BC to sites associated with the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s; from grand
mansions to modest farmhouses; and from upcountry textile mill villages to Pee Dee railroad
towns and Lowcountry rice fields.
Land Acquisition and Protection
Land protection and acquisition is a critical issue for outdoor recreation in South Carolina.
Virtually all outdoor recreational pursuits require or are enhanced by the amount and quality of
protected land available to the public. Three programs are currently available at the State level
to support land protection efforts:
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Recreation Land Trust Fund (RELT) – Approximately $358,000 in annual RELT funds are
shared by local recreation departments and state agencies, with approximately $100,000 of
these annual funds reserved for state park land purchases.
Heritage Land Trust Fund (HLTF) – The HLTF is used to acquire and manage significant
natural and cultural resources and is funded primarily through the allocation of a small
percentage of the Real Estate Documentation Stamp Tax fee. Program funding rose
steadily from FY 2002 to FY 2006 due to the State’s booming real estate market, but
dropped by more than half a million dollars in FY 2007 when the real estate market began
to slow.
Conservation Land Bank – The Land Bank was established in the 2002 Conservation Bank
Act to fund the purchase of significant conservation or recreational land as well as
protective easements. Since actual funding began in July 2004, the Conservation Bank has
provided more than $70 million to conserve more than 134,000 acres, including more than
124,000 acres of forestlands and wetlands. The Bank is primarily funded by a percentage
of the Real Estate Transfer Fee, generating average annual revenues of more than $18
million. In the FY 2007-08 State budget, the Conservation Bank received a non-recurring
additional appropriation of $5 million.
An assessment of South Carolina’s relative position in preserving significant lands warrants
concern, with the State ranking 5th nationally in urban sprawl. A study conducted by the USDA
Natural Resource Conservation Service estimated that nearly 200,000 acres of the State’s
farmland was lost to urban uses from 1987 to 1997. South Carolina ranked 21st among the 50
states in the amount of park land statewide in 1998 and by 2006, the State had dropped to 33rd.
While South Carolina as a whole lags behind its neighbors in land protection efforts, some local
jurisdictions mirror promising national trends for land conservation. The growth of private land
trusts and local government conservation programs is an encouraging trend that will grow in
effectiveness with broad support from the general public. In the 2001 State Survey conducted
by USC’s Survey Research Laboratory, respondents viewed growth management as one of the
most important problems facing the State, ranking higher than taxes, crime, and transportation
and second only to education. In the State’s more urban areas that are experiencing rapid
development the issue of growth ranked first, ahead of education. Survey respondents also
indicated a willingness to pay more taxes for land protection – 69% supported the use of tax
funds to buy land for parks, 60% to purchase environmentally sensitive areas, and 51% to
protect greenbelts.
The land protection and conservation programs which appear to be most effective are those
based in counties experiencing rapid growth, which have sensitive natural areas, and benefit
from a stronger economic base, such as Beaufort and Charleston Counties. The loss of land
from its natural state in some of these areas has prompted successful initiatives for public
funding.
Land protection and acquisition efforts will be strengthened through continued support and a
funding commitment for the State’s Conservation Land Bank, coupled with legislation that
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actively encourages and promotes local government and private sector land conservation and
removes existing constraints on the ability of local governments to fund such programs.
Assessment of Demand
Mirroring the State’s population growth, the demand for new, updated and expanded
recreational facilities continues to increase. However, funding remains very limited and
recreational expenditures must be prioritized. To determine current and long-range outdoor
recreational demand and needs in South Carolina, SCPRT launched a comprehensive needs
assessment process that involved the review of up-to-date demographic and economic data,
surveys of residents, a series of public meetings, interagency meetings, and a review of state
and national trends in outdoor recreation. An in-depth review of the latest Census data revealed
a changing population that is aging, more racially and ethnically diverse, employed in more
diverse occupational sectors, and living in increasingly urbanized communities. A formal
telephone survey of State residents was conducted to assess recreational participation and
preference. The usage and needs of out-of-state visitors and special populations were also
examined. State and national trends in outdoor recreation were reviewed and major outdoor
recreation issues in South Carolina were identified through a series of regional public
workshops. Issues of national concern were also considered through interagency meetings and
focused research.
Recreation Participation and Preference
As part of its continuing efforts to meet the recreational needs of South Carolinians, SCPRT
periodically conducts surveys of the general public to determine the extent to which the State’s
residents participate in a variety of recreational activities, as well as their preferences for such
activities. The most recent survey was conducted in 2005 by the University of South Carolina's
Institute for Public Service and Policy Research. The data also provides comparisons with the
results from the 1990, 1994 and 1999 surveys. The general conclusion from the latest survey
data is that participation by State residents in recreational activities has remained quite stable
over the past 15 years. With only minor variations in rank and order, the same set of activities
appear in the top eleven positions in 1990, 1994, 1999 and 2005.
Walking for pleasure or exercise remains the activity in which the largest percentage of State
residents (83.2%) participate, followed by attending outdoor sporting events, beach swimming
or sunbathing, driving for pleasure, and working out with weights or exercise machines.
Approximately half of those interviewed reported participation in picnicking, swimming in a
pool, or visiting historic sites. Nearly 43% of respondents had been bicycling and nearly 40%
visited a museum or went freshwater fishing. Participation rates for other activities varied from
nearly 35% for visiting an unusual natural feature to slightly over 1% for playing in-line
hockey.
When the frequency of participation is considered, walking for pleasure or exercise remains the
activity with the highest level of participation, followed by working out with weights or
exercise machines, driving for pleasure, jogging or running, bird watching, bicycling, and
watching wildlife. Although the overall percentage of participation may have decreased,
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several activities such as playing baseball, softball or tennis have posted increases in the
number of times participated. In addition, more than 80% of participation in day-to-day
recreational activities including playing football, baseball, tennis, soccer, softball, bicycling,
and playing golf occurs in the region closest to the respondents’ homes.
In general, persons in younger age groups exhibit higher participation levels in recreational
activities, particularly true in vigorous physical activities such as jogging or running, playing
basketball, football, soccer, or volleyball, or working out with weights or exercise machines.
However, there are activities for which those in the middle age categories are more likely to
participate and one activity – bird watching – for which persons age 65 and older show the
highest level of participation.
While men are more likely than women to participate in traditional outdoor sports such as fresh
and saltwater fishing, hunting, shellfishing and shrimping, other shooting sports, and hunting
dog field trials, women are generally more likely to engage in more passive leisure-time
activities, such as visiting a zoo, museum, or historical site; picnicking; bird watching; and
walking for pleasure or on a guided nature trail. Participation and preference differences by
respondent’s family income were also significant for a number of recreational activities. The
general tendency is for South Carolinians from higher income families to participate in the
surveyed recreational activities at a higher rate than persons with lower incomes. Data also
demonstrated differing participation levels for a number of these activities between the races,
with whites more likely to participate in water sports and traditional outdoor recreational
activities such as camping, hiking, hunting, other shooting sports, and participating in hunting
dog field trials. The participation of blacks was higher in active sports including basketball,
football, volleyball, and softball; bicycling; jogging or running; and working out with weights
or exercise machines.
The percentage of South Carolinians who feel the State has adequate outdoor recreation or
leisure-time facilities and activities has increased steadily, from 59.8% in 1994 to 61.3% in
1999 and to 63.5% in 2005. Residents noted that a wide range of facilities and activities are
needed, with parks mentioned most frequently as a recreational need, followed by swimming
facilities, activities for youth, basketball facilities, bicycle paths and playgrounds. Moreover, a
common concern that continues to surface in the survey data is the need to provide recreational
opportunities for young people, with activities for youth and facilities for youth often
mentioned as the State’s greatest recreational need.
Special Populations
Meeting the recreational needs of all individuals is a particular challenge. Consideration must
be given to those who may experience barriers to accessing recreational facilities or programs
for a variety of reasons such as financial, cultural, geographic, and physical. It is recognized
that the needs of these special populations extend well beyond recreation and that recreation
providers must work closely with other public and private service providers in the
transportation, community health, human services, and planning sectors to coordinate efforts to
meet the diverse needs of these population groups.
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South Carolina ranks the 7th highest in the nation – behind the District of Columbia and the
states of Hawaii, Mississippi, Maryland, Louisiana and Georgia – in the overall percentage of
minority population. However, the racial composition of the State’s minority population is
shifting significantly. Census data shows that South Carolina’s foreign-born population grew
more rapidly (a 47% increase) from 2000 to 2005 than any other state in the nation. For many
minorities, access to recreational opportunities heavily depends on individual proximity to
existing facilities and programs, available transportation, and costs to participate.
Mirroring national trends, South Carolina's older population is increasing. In 1960, only 6.3%
of the State's population was 65 and over. This segment of the population had grown to 12.1%
by 2000. More recent State estimates identified 598,550 South Carolinians aged 65 and older
in 2005, comprising 14.1% of the State’s total population. Census projections indicate older
adults will comprise more than one-fifth of the State's population by the year 2030. More than
half of the over 65 group (51.3%) are females. To better accommodate the recreational needs
of older individuals, recreation providers must consider the different limitations faced by the
older adult population when developing and promoting programs and facilities.
Disabilities can include a wide range of conditions – physical limitations, mental illness, and
serious medical conditions. Included are persons with mental retardation, autism, traumatic
brain injury, spinal cord injury and similar disabilities. More than one out of ten South
Carolinians aged 5 and over are disabled. This equates to 12% or 810,857 State residents.
Adults aged 65 and older comprise nearly 46%, or 213,448 persons, and have the highest
percentage of disabled persons. The recreational needs of persons with disabilities vary greatly
by type of disability. Close attention must be paid to ADA requirements in providing
accessibility for the disabled. Additional efforts could be made to promote and publicize
available programs and facilities. In addition, the needs of individuals with temporary
conditions such as those with sprains or fractures, pregnant women, and children in strollers
should be considered.
More than 14%, or 547,869 South Carolinians, live below poverty. However, a closer look at
poverty statistics reveals that nearly 19% of the State’s children and almost 14% of its elderly
residents live below poverty. Economically disadvantaged individuals face many obstacles in
meeting their recreational needs. These obstacles include the lack of transportation to existing
recreational facilities and programs, the inability to pay user fees (particularly private fees) and
purchase specialized equipment or uniforms, and the lack of information about available
facilities and programs. User fees for recreation must be weighed carefully and maintained at
the lowest levels possible, especially for public facilities. Additionally, information about lowcost recreational programs and facilities can be targeted to disadvantaged residents to increase
awareness of and participation in available opportunities.
Outdoor Recreation Trends
Outdoor recreation is receiving increased attention across multiple disciplines as our
communities, our nation, and the world experience rapid growth and development that
concurrently pose new opportunities and daunting challenges to keep pace with recreational
demand while preserving significant resources. Substantial population growth, combined with
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the changing demographic composition of Americans in terms of ethnicity, race, household
composition, and age have been noted as primary factors impacting recreation trends.
USDA Forest Service research and data from its 2000-2001 National Survey on Recreation and
the Environment indicate that outdoor recreation continues to grow in popularity nationwide,
with 97% of Americans aged 16 or older reporting participation to some extent in outdoor
recreation during any given year. The most favored recreational activities of the 1990s have
remained popular in more recent studies, with walking for pleasure and family gatherings
retaining the top two spots in the most recent ranking. Participation in kayaking and motorized
recreational activities such as jetskiing and driving off-road grew substantially since the
previous survey conducted in 1994.
A number of issues have been identified that will impact the future of outdoor recreation at
both the national and local levels. USDA staff emphasized several trends of note, including:
Public properties and providers will be tasked with accommodating most of the future
growth in recreation demands.
Restoration and management of ecosystems and recreation are high priorities for Federal
properties, but lack of adequate funding will be a barrier in meeting these priorities.
State lands, especially state parks, are reaching maturity and will require investments in
facilities maintenance and upgrade. Many of these parks will also experience the pressures
of growing usage of existing limited facilities and acreage.
Private landowners are continuing to close more land to public or leased access for
recreational activity. Private lands are also being developed around many public sites,
preventing the potential for public acquisition and expansion of existing public parks and
lands.
Increasing demands for activities such as climbing, off-road vehicle use, hiking, horseback
riding, motorized vehicle use, wildlife viewing, and tourism services will contribute to
more competition and conflicts on public and private properties.
A broad spectrum of recreational activities are likely to experience increased conflict as
demands grow for water access, trails, backcountry, developed sites, and roads.
Traditional and non-mechanized recreational user groups often perceive much more conflict
than newer non-traditional and mechanized user groups.
Building on earlier research and national assessments of demand and supply trends in outdoor
recreation, USDA program staff also noted additional general recreation characteristics and
trends that will shape recreational planning and policy in the coming years:
Wilderness benefits are expanding.
The outdoor recreation market will to continue to grow.
Access to the private land base for recreation continues to decline.
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Demand for nearby recreation resources is increasing.
Recreational resource development has not been equal across regions or settings.
There are also new sports, advances in equipment and technology, and alternative ways of
participating in existing sports that are changing the way people recreate. Some newer
activities are attracting increased participation among women, youth, minorities, and other nontraditional groups. However, many new activities also pose conflicts with other recreation
users. Emerging, growing and evolving recreational activities include:
Mountain biking – on rough terrain rather than streets or paths
Off-road vehicles – all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, and full-size vehicles
Backcountry usage – new gear, cell phones, GPS units
Skate-boarding – new equipment, ramps and parks, tricks and high risk activities
Sporting clays – clay target shooting on a course simulating hunting experiences and
hunting preserves
Hunting preserves – guided hunts on private land, often with pen-raised game
Jet skis – personal watercraft powered by water jets rather than propellers
Bass fishing – special boats and other gear, tournaments, clubs
Fly fishing – renewed interest, classes, freshwater and saltwater
Kayaking – whitewater or touring, fishing opportunities
Rowing – team and individual competition, winter training opportunities in warmer
climates
Personal exercise equipment – used at home or office
Private gyms – workout clubs, indoor pools, and other indoor activities
Geo-caching – a techno-sport using global positioning satellites (GPS) and hand-held
systems to locate specific “finds” in state, local and national parks and forests
Field Sports – soccer, lacrosse, disc golf, ultimate Frisbee
Dog parks – opportunities for “off leash” exercise, training, agility, obedience,
conformation
Water parks and spray facilities
The growing emphasis and interest in heritage and nature-based tourism continues to hold
economic promise for many communities in South Carolina. The Palmetto State has a rich
cultural history and natural resource base, much of which remains untapped and unprotected.
Rural communities with attractive cultural, scenic and historical resources are among the fastest
growing heritage tourism destinations. The numerous smaller towns and communities
throughout the State stand to benefit from continued development of the regional heritage and
nature-based tourism markets. The recognition of the State’s heritage tourism resources as an
economic resource and as a catalyst for community revitalization is paramount in the creation
of a sustainable economy for the State and its distinct regions. However, careful assessment,
coordination and planning, coupled with adequate funding resources, are integral to preserving
the State’s cultural heritage and abundant natural resources and to fostering a climate for
further tourism and outdoor recreation growth.
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Issue Identification and Prioritization
In order to identify the most important recreational issues to the general public, SCPRT and the
Matheny-Burns Group worked with local providers and user groups in a series of five regional
workshops held across the State. More than 275 organizations with recreational interests were
notified and encouraged to involve their members and allied organizations. Nearly 70
representatives participated in the regional workshops, in which participants identified 60
recreational needs and concerns. These recommendations were subsequently refined into 15
major issues following completion of all the workshops and the receipt of additional written
and electronic correspondence that provided further comments, proposed actions, or other
recommendations for outdoor recreation in South Carolina. An interagency focus group
meeting contributed additional insight into emerging issues, priorities, resources and funding
trends, and evolving missions relative to outdoor recreation. Issues of broader concern were
also considered by examining the work of national groups who have recommended actions on a
number of recreational matters. The 15 priority issues that emerged from this extensive
planning process are:
Issue 1: Increase funding for outdoor recreation facilities and programs, to include increased
grant opportunities, exploring privatization and/or leveraging public-private
partnerships for appropriate activities and facilities, seeking private sponsorships,
and fostering increased volunteer involvement to augment staff and reduce
operational costs.
Issue 2: Increase funding for locally-based recreation facilities and programs, particularly in
rural communities, to reduce the need for travel, relieve crowding at major facilities,
and enhance recreational access for persons with mobility or financial limitations.
Issue 3: Create an expanded network of trails that are well-designed and well-managed, are
available to many, and provide appropriate facilities for:
- Equestrians
- Boating, including canoeing, kayaking and rowing
- Walkers, hikers, backpackers, and bikers in both urban and rural settings
- Historic trails (Revolutionary War, railroad, etc.)
- General use trails
Issue 4: Provide adequate support facilities for all trails including:
- Trailheads, including signage, parking and restrooms
- Potable water for people and livestock
- Parking for longer campers and horse trailers where appropriate
- Water and electrical hookups at non-primitive camp sites
- Additional secluded primitive campsites
- Bathhouses, where appropriate
- Trash collection
- Safety improvements (scheduled water releases, warning devices, call boxes,
parking improvements, etc.)
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Issue 5: Provide additional education, outreach and promotion of available outdoor recreation
opportunities statewide – including recreational facilities, educational programs,
trails for all types of uses, and camping facilities – with a particular emphasis on
reaching minorities, K-12 students and educators, lower income residents, and
persons with disabilities.
Issue 6: Promote increased collaboration between recreational facility managers and teachers
on formal and informal outdoor education opportunities.
Issue 7: Provide or improve outdoor recreation facilities to enable greater accessibility and
use by multiple age groups and persons with disabilities.
Issue 8: Minimize conflicts between outdoor recreational activities that are not compatible
through education, regulation, and careful planning of new or expanded facilities and
programs.
Issue 9: Provide and properly maintain adequate facilities for and access to a diverse range of
outdoor recreation activities, from traditionally popular activities such as boating and
hunting to emerging activities such as rowing, rock climbing, disc golf, and dog
parks.
Issue 10: Require and/or encourage the provision of connectivity between trails, outdoor
recreation facilities, open space and residential development on all levels – local,
regional and statewide.
Issue 11: Create and encourage partnerships among government and non-profit agencies at all
levels to ensure coordination, reduce redundancies, provide training and technical
assistance, and leverage resources to enable additional outdoor recreation
opportunities.
Issue 12: Encourage small business and eco-tourism opportunities to enhance local economic
development and to fill unmet outdoor recreational needs.
Issue 13: Protect and acquire significant lands for natural and cultural resources and identify
opportunities for allowing public outdoor recreational use.
Issue 14: Protect shorelines (rivers, lakes, and beaches) and dedicate more waterfront lands for
public recreational use and access.
Issue 15: Promote green technologies and energy conservation techniques in the planning,
design, construction and operation of outdoor recreation facilities to reduce costs and
conserve natural resources.
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Issues of National Concern
Many recreational issues of national concern have surfaced over the last few years as
communities, non-profits, the private sector, and individuals have joined recreational and
natural resource providers in recognizing the growing importance of recreational opportunity to
overall quality of life and community sustainability. Similarities and common themes on
recreation and related issues are found throughout the recommendations of diverse groups such
as the 2007 Regional and National Recreation Forums convened by the American Recreation
Coalition and the National Forest Foundation, the Healthy People 2010 initiative, and studies
conducted by the American Planning Association, the National Association of City and County
Health Officials and the National Park Service. Current recreational issues of national concern
include:
Stable funding, as provided through mechanisms such as dedicated trust funds and user
fees, is needed to continue to meet the recreational and natural resources needs of the
American people.
Adequate operational funds must be provided to maintain, update and expand existing
recreation resources and new facilities added due to increased demand and population
growth.
America’s outdoor recreation facilities, including trail and forest systems, are in need of
significant repair and enhancement; however, sufficient funding has not been made
available.
Lack of outreach and education about the myriad of diverse outdoor recreation
opportunities available continues to be a major barrier to outdoor recreation participation.
Accommodating future outdoor recreation demands will increasingly fall on public
properties and providers as private landowners close land to public access.
As America’s youth are increasingly drawn to activities other than outdoor recreation such
as the internet and expanding audio/video options, creative ways to boost outdoor
recreation and physical activity among this sector of the population should be explored.
Shrinking Federal and state funds allocated for recreation-related projects and programs
will necessitate the creation of outdoor recreation partnerships and collaborations among all
levels of government, non-profits, volunteers, private recreation providers, and other nontraditional recreation interests to seek alternative funding sources and leverage existing
funds.
Outdoor recreation opportunities are limited for residents of highly urbanized areas,
minorities, persons with disabilities, and persons of limited means.
Different strategies must be developed to meet the outdoor recreation needs of all parts of
society.
Increased participation in and demand for a broad spectrum of outdoor activities such as
climbing, motorized and off-road vehicle use, hiking, horseback riding, water sports and
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wildlife viewing is likely to create competition and conflicts for the use of public and
private properties.
Demand for nearby recreation resources is increasing as the nation becomes increasingly
urbanized, fuel prices climb, and security concerns related to travel increase.
The benefits of outdoor recreation and physical activity to public health and well being are
widely recognized and have begun to impact public policy.
A national system of parks, greenways, trails, scenic corridors, and recreation areas will
contribute to the health and quality of life of individuals and communities, create jobs and
economic benefits, conserve natural habitat and cultural resources, improve existing
resources, and meet the changing recreational needs of the American people.
Shared issues that transcend state and agency boundaries will affect the quantity and quality of
outdoor recreation opportunities in communities throughout the country and include: Federal
funding for resource expansion and operations; environmental concerns; public and private
sector coordination and collaboration to provide recreational access; increasing demand and
competition; increased emphasis on encouraging physical activity within all age groups; and
on-going education and outreach efforts.
Implementation Program
The SCORP Implementation Program for outdoor recreation in South Carolina represents the
five-year planning period from 2008 through 2013. Individual agencies and organizations will
develop detailed plans for the identified strategies based on their respective missions, priorities,
and available resources. The needs and recommendations addressed in the 2008 SCORP
Implementation Program were developed through meetings and discussions with numerous
Federal, State, and local agencies and organizations whose involvement is considered integral
to successful implementation of the SCORP.
The Implementation Program serves as a general blueprint for guiding outdoor recreation
initiatives in South Carolina over the next five years. It is important to recognize that
additional windows of opportunity will likely open within the five-year plan period to address
outdoor recreational needs. Although these new opportunities may not be specifically
identified in this Plan, they should be incorporated as available into efforts to address future
needs and advance the major plan implementation recommendations. Of particular benefit are
opportunities that generate interagency and public-private collaboration and that maximize
resources through partnerships, cost-sharing agreements, grant opportunities, volunteer
involvement, or other major cost-saving measures. The Implementation Program identifies
future outdoor recreation needs, as well as establishes specific implementation strategies and
responsibilities to achieve plan goals in the coming five years.
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Future Needs
Outdoor recreation policy and planning in South Carolina will be guided by the following
general principles for the next five years:
Take action on the major recreation issues identified by the general public.
Address the continued transition of traditional funding streams and identify alternative
funding sources and resource development opportunities with an increased emphasis on
interagency collaboration and public-private partnerships to maximize limited resources.
Base acquisition and development decisions on the findings of participation and preference
studies within the context of the significant identified issues.
Seek and pursue windows of opportunity such as cost-sharing, partnerships, land donations,
bargain sales, and perpetual easements when possible.
Incorporate related needs and strategies from other agency and organization planning
processes and implement recommendations from other existing studies and plans.
Encourage Federal action on issues of national concern.
Realization of the SCORP goals and implementation strategies will be shaped by these general
guidelines, as well as impacted by a myriad of environmental challenges and opportunities.
These external trends include: the continued transition and decline of traditional funding
streams and the need to identify alternative funding sources and resource development
strategies; an increased emphasis on interagency collaboration, public-private partnerships, and
volunteer involvement to maximize limited resources; and continued population growth and
development in South Carolina that is accompanied by an increased demand for expanded
recreational opportunities, additional demand on existing recreational resources, and growing
development pressure on existing and potential natural and cultural resources.
Recommendations
State and local agencies as well as non-profit and private organizations plan to accomplish a
wide range of actions that will address the fifteen priority implementation issues identified
during the 2008 SCORP planning process. A detailed listing of 129 ambitious, yet attainable
planned implementation strategies is provided in Part VIII of the 2008 SCORP.
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PART I. INTRODUCTION
The 2008 State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) is South Carolina’s official
outdoor recreation plan. As such, this five-year plan serves as a guide to various Federal, State
and local governmental agencies and the private sector entities involved in recreation and natural
resources planning and development. The purpose of the Plan is to consider outdoor recreation
issues relating to the needs of both residents and visitors to South Carolina, examine the State's
recreational resources, analyze demand for recreational opportunities, develop an
implementation program to address the identified needs and issues, identify funding
opportunities, and identify issues of national importance. The Plan provides an opportunity for a
variety of agencies and organizations to communicate upcoming projects, leverage limited
resources, and coordinate activities. The SCORP is used as a guide for distribution of State
recreation grant funds such as the Recreation Land Trust (RELT) Fund and the Parks and
Recreation and Development (PARD) Fund. The SCORP meets the National Park Service
requirements for a state plan and serves as the planning document for the disbursement of South
Carolina's share of the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) which is
administered by the National Park Service of the US Department of the Interior. It is also used
as a guide for the distribution of the Federal Recreational Trails Program Fund and by the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the USDA Forest Service, the SC Department
of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, the SC Department of Natural Resources, and other State,
regional and local agencies and organizations to identify recreation use and needs concerning
resources under their purview.
The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism (SCPRT) is the designated
agency responsible for outdoor recreation planning in the State. The South Carolina General
Assembly created the SCPRT in 1967 and reaffirmed its role in 1993:
To promote the State's tourist attractions;
To promote the general health and welfare of South Carolinians by developing and
expanding recreational areas;
To develop a coordinated plan which best utilizes the State's facilities and resources such
as the natural scenery, outdoor sports, and recreational activities;
To provide for the preservation and perpetuation of the Palmetto State's rich historical
heritage;
To lease or convey lands to local governments for parks and recreation facilities; and
To study the State's park and outdoor recreational resources and facilities, the current and
projected needs for these resources, and the extent to which these needs are being met.
The SCPRT is also charged with promoting economic diversity in all areas of the Palmetto State
by extending the full benefits of tourism and recreation.
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PART II. STATE PROFILE
Located in the Southeastern United States, the State of South Carolina is in the heart of a region
that is experiencing unprecedented growth. An overview of the State’s geographic, population,
and economic development trends provides a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities faced
by South Carolinians as we work to accommodate growth while preserving and enhancing our
State’s quality of life. These trends have a profound affect on recreation and tourism resources
and help define the direction and focus of outdoor recreation planning in the Palmetto State.
A. GEOGRAPHIC PROFILE
South Carolina’s diverse geography and wealth of natural resources play an integral role in
shaping the State’s growth patterns and its appeal as a recreational and tourist destination. South
Carolina ranks 40th in size among the fifty states at 32,007 square miles. Of this total, land area
comprises more than 30,111 square miles, or 94%, with the remaining 1,896 square miles, or
6%, consisting of water. The State offers a full range of topographic features – from the
mountains and foothills of the southern Blue Ridge, to the rolling Piedmont, Sandhills, and broad
Coastal Plains, and to the coastal barrier islands and expansive beaches on the Atlantic Ocean.
South Carolina is comprised of three physiographic provinces – the Blue Ridge, Piedmont and
Coastal Plain. The Blue Ridge Mountains cover an area of approximately 500 square miles in
the northwestern corner of the State. The highest point in the State is Sassafras Mountain in
Pickens County, with an elevation of 3,548 feet above sea level. As a transitional zone between
the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Coastal Plain, the Piedmont region roughly spans
the area between Greenville and Columbia. The Piedmont is separated from the Coastal Plain by
the fall line – the boundary where the upland terrain gives way to less rocky, softer soil
conditions – that generally runs diagonally across the middle of the State through the Capital
City of Columbia. The Coastal Plain extends over approximately two-thirds of the State, from
the fall line to the Atlantic. This region is commonly referred to as the Lowcountry. The overall
mean elevation of the State is estimated at 350 feet above sea level.
Climate also influences the quality and accessibility of outdoor recreational activities in South
Carolina. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Blue Ridge Mountains, the State enjoys
relatively favorable weather conditions. The State’s climate offers long summers and mild
winters providing year-round recreational opportunities. The Appalachian Mountains that form
the northwestern border contribute to a temperate climate. Their proximity blocks much of the
cold air from the northwest, resulting in mild winters. However, their presence also creates a
notable area of decreased rainfall in the middle portion of the State. The average temperature in
the middle of the State ranges from 32ºF to 55ºF in January and between 70ºF and 92ºF in July.
The average temperature statewide is 65ºF.
South Carolina benefits from an abundant supply of water in the form of lakes, streams, rivers,
wetlands and aquifers. This water supply has contributed to the development and growth of the
State’s economy, particularly its tourism industry. The State's water resources are presently
ample and still reasonably clean and fresh. The primary sources for water in the State are
2
precipitation and stream flow from adjacent states. There are 11,000 miles of permanently
flowing rivers and streams, nearly one-half mile for every square mile of land surface. The four
major river basins in South Carolina are: the ACE River Basin with sub-basins consisting of the
Ashepoo, Combahee and Edisto Rivers; the Pee Dee River Basin with sub-basins consisting of
the Black, Little Pee Dee, Lynches, Great Pee Dee and Waccamaw Rivers; the Santee River
Basin with sub-basins consisting of the Cooper, Santee, Congaree, Saluda, Broad, Wateree and
Catawba Rivers; and the Savannah River Basin which spans portions of South Carolina, Georgia
and North Carolina (Figure 1).
Figure 1. South Carolina Surface Water
Rainfall impacts the condition and supply of the State’s water resources and is usually abundant
and distributed relatively evenly throughout the year. The annual rainfall ranges from 30 to 75
inches, and averages 45 inches. The heaviest rainfall occurs in the northwestern portion of the
State in the Mountains and Foothills, while the Midlands area is the driest. The Coastal Plain
receives higher levels of rainfall due to the influence of the Atlantic. However, periods of
drought are not uncommon and can influence natural and outdoor recreational resources. A onein-four probability of drought is projected for somewhere in the State at any given time.
Droughts are naturally-occurring events that can seriously impact agriculture, drop water bodies
to record low levels, damage forestry resources, drastically lower shallow and deep ground water
resources, threaten public drinking water supplies, and endanger water quality. More recent
3
droughts have included a severe drought period from June 1998 to August 2002 – in which
statewide precipitation fell below normal for 41 out of 51 months. The State has also been under
a moderate drought declaration since June 2007 that was updated to severe by September 2007.
Man-made controls such as dams have significantly influenced stream-flow and recreational
opportunity in several regions of the State. There are 1,617 lakes larger than 10 acres scattered
throughout South Carolina. According to the Inventory of Lakes in South Carolina, these lakes
cover more than 521,737 acres and impound in excess of 15 million acre-feet of water. Of these,
19 reservoirs larger than 1,000 acres account for more than 461,400 acres of surface water (Table
1). Power production was the primary reason for constructing 15 of these large reservoirs.
However, recreation is a principle use of most of the State's lakes. The major lakes include:
Lakes Jocassee, Keowee, Hartwell, Richard B. Russell, and Strom Thurmond (formerly Clarks
Hill) on the Savannah River; Lakes Greenwood and Murray on the Saluda River; Monticello and
Parr Reservoirs on the Broad River; Lakes Wylie and Wateree and Fishing Creek Reservoir on
the Catawba and Wateree Rivers; Lakes Marion and Moultrie on the Santee and Cooper Rivers;
and Lake Robinson on Black Creek (see Table 1).
Table 1. Major Reservoirs in South Carolina
Lake
Lake Marion
Lake Thurmond
Lake Hartwell
Lake Moultrie
Lake Russell
Lake Murray
Lake Keowee
Lake Wateree
Lake Wylie/Lake Catawba
Lake Greenwood
Lake Jocassee
Monticello Reservoir
Fishing Creek Reservoir
Lake Robinson
Parr Reservoir
Par Pond
Lake Bowen
North Saluda Reservoir
L-Lake
Owner
SC Public Service Authority
US Army Corps of Engineers
US Army Corps of Engineers
SC Public Service Authority
US Army Corps of Engineers
SC Electric & Gas Company
Duke Power Company
Duke Power Company
Duke Power Company
Greenwood County/Duke Power
Duke Power Company
SC Electric & Gas Company
Duke Power Company
Carolina Power & Light
SC Electric & Gas Company
Savannah River Site/USDOE
Spartanburg Water Works
Greenville Water Works
Savannah River Site/USDOE
Surface Area (Acres)
110,600
70,000
56,000
60,400
26,650
51,000
18,372
13,710
12,455
11,400
7,565
6,800
3,370
2,250
4,400
2,700
1,600
1,080
1,050
Source: Inventory of Lakes in SC, SC Water Resources Commission, Report Number 171, 1991.
Nearly one-fourth of South Carolina’s land surface, or 4.5 million acres, is considered wetlands.
Wetlands are a vital natural resource – providing a natural filtration system for sediment and
pollution and serving as habitat for numerous species. Only four other states have a higher
percentage of wetlands than South Carolina – Alaska, Florida, Louisiana and Maine. South
Carolina’s wetlands comprise nearly 12% of the total wetland area of the southeastern United
States. Of the State’s wetlands, 90% are freshwater and 10% consist of saltwater or brackish
marshland. Freshwater wetlands occur throughout the State and include freshwater marshes,
4
forested wetlands (primarily cypress-tupelo swamps and bottomland hardwood forests), and
isolated wetlands (Carolina bays, pocosins, potholes, mountain bogs, and sinkholes).
South Carolinians and tourists to the State enjoy 190 miles of coastline. The coastal beaches are
the State’s greatest single attraction among the various natural, historic, and man-made
recreational resources and are the focal point of the State's travel and tourism industry. The 60mile Grand Strand that extends from northern Horry County south to Georgetown County
contains some of the Atlantic Coast's longest unbroken stretches of beaches. Myrtle Beach is
ranked nationally as the number two beach vacation destination in the country. Further south
along the coast, the semi-tropical barrier islands of Charleston, Colleton, Beaufort, and Jasper
Counties offer diverse recreational opportunities ranging from the elite, manicured resort
developments of Hilton Head Island to undeveloped, wilderness areas such as Cape Romain
Wildlife Refuge and Capers Island State Heritage Preserve. Other coastal resources include 240
miles of Intracoastal Waterway, extensive saltwater marshes, and numerous bays and sounds.
B. DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE
South Carolina has experienced steady population growth over the past three decades and is
currently the 10th fastest growing state in the nation (based on 2007 estimates). Between 1970
and 1990, the State’s population grew from approximately 2.6 million to nearly 3.5 million, an
increase of 35%. The State grew by more than a half million persons from 1990 to 2000, an
increase of more than 15%. By 2007, the number of South Carolina residents surpassed 4.4
million, with a population density of more than 146 people per square mile. The State’s
population grew by 9.9% (395,893 persons) since the 2000 Census, with 68% of the growth
attributed to migration into the State. The population projection for the year 2020 approaches
4.95 million, representing a 23.4% increase from 2000.
South Carolina’s population has become increasingly urbanized, with 60.5% of the State now
classified as urban. During the past three decades, the rural share of the State’s population fell to
well under half of the total population, dropping from nearly 52% in 1970 to 46% in 1980, and
decreasing to 45% in 1990 and to only 39.5% by 2000.
There are currently 10 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in South Carolina that encompass
21 of the State’s 46 counties (Figure 2). These 10 MSAs include the Anderson MSA (Anderson
County), Augusta-Richmond County GA-SC MSA (Aiken and Edgefield Counties), CharlestonNorth Charleston MSA (Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester Counties), Charlotte-GastoniaConcord NC-SC MSA (York County), Columbia MSA (Calhoun, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lexington,
Richland, and Saluda Counties), Florence MSA (Darlington and Florence Counties), Greenville
MSA (Greenville, Laurens and Pickens Counties), Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach
MSA (Horry County) and Sumter MSA (Sumter County). As shown in Table 2, the combined
population for these MSAs was more than 3 million in the 2000 Census. A comparison of the
metropolitan population with the State total reveals that nearly 75% of the State's population
lives in these ten metropolitan areas. Figure 2 shows the location of the State’s Metropolitan
Statistical Areas as well as the counties within each planning district.
5
Figure 2. South Carolina Planning Districts and Metropolitan Statistical Areas
Cherokee
Pickens
Oconee
York
Green- Spartanburg
ville
1
3
Union
Anderson
Chester
Lancaster
Marlboro
Chesterfield
Laurens
Fairfield
Abbeville
2
Greenwood
McCormick
Darlington
7
Lee
4
Saluda
Dillon
Kershaw
Newberry
Marion
6
Richland
Florence
Sumter
Lexington
Horry
Edgefield
Calhoun
Aiken
Metropolitan
Statistical Areas
Anderson
Augusta-Richmond County
Charleston-North Charleston
Charlotte-Gastonia-Concord
Columbia
Florence
Greenville
Myrtle Beach-ConwayNorth Myrtle Beach
Spartanburg
Sumter
5
Clarendon
Williamsburg
Orangeburg
8
Georgetown
Barnwell
Dorchester
Bamberg
9
Berkeley
Allendale
Colleton
Hampton
Jasper
10
Charleston
Beaufort
Planning Districts
1 - Appalachian
2 - Upper Savannah
3 - Catawba
4 - Central Midlands
5 - Lower Savannah
6 - Santee-Lynches
7 - Pee Dee
8 - Waccamaw
9 - Berkeley/Charleston/
Dorchester
10 - Low Country
Table 2. South Carolina Population by Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)
MSA
Anderson
Augusta-Richmond County (SC portion)
Charleston-North Charleston
Charlotte-Gastonia-Concord (SC portion)
Columbia
Florence
Greenville
Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach
Spartanburg
Sumter
Total SC MSA Population
1990
145,196
139,315
506,875
131,497
548,335
176,195
472,153
144,053
226,800
102,637
2,593,056
2000
165,740
167,147
548,972
164,614
647,158
193,155
559,940
196,629
253,791
104,646
3,001,792
2006
estimate
177,963
177,061
603,178
199,035
703,771
198,848
601,986
238,493
271,087
104,430
3,275,852
% Change
2000-2006
7.4%
5.9%
9.9%
20.9%
8.7%
2.9%
7.5%
21.3%
6.8%
-0.2%
9.1%
Source: South Carolina Statistical Abstract, 2006. SC Budget and Control Board, Office of Research
and Statistical Services, Columbia, SC; US Census Bureau, 1990 Census.
Table 3 details the State’s population distribution by the ten regional planning districts in South
Carolina. Figure 3 provides additional information about population change by county.
6
Table 3. South Carolina Population by Regional Planning Area
District
Number
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Regional Planning District
Appalachian
Upper Savannah
Catawba
Central Midlands
Lower Savannah
Santee-Lynches
Pee Dee
Waccamaw
Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester
Low Country
1990
887,993
185,230
248,520
509,314
267,470
191,762
307,499
227,170
506,877
154,475
2000
1,028,656
215,739
289,914
596,253
300,666
209,914
330,929
289,643
549,033
201,265
Source: SC Budget and Control Board. South Carolina Statistical Abstract, 2006. Office of Research
and Statistical Services, Columbia, SC ; US Census Bureau, 2000 Census.
Figure 3. South Carolina Population Change by County, 1990 to 2000
Cherokee
Pickens
Greenville
Oconee
Anderson
Abbeville
York
Spartanburg
Chester
Union
Laurens
Lancaster Chesterfield
Kershaw
Fairfield
Marlboro
Darlington
Newberry
Greenwood
Marion
Lee
Florence
Saluda
McCormick
Dillon
Richland
Horry
Sumter
Lexington
Edgefield
Calhoun
Clarendon
Aiken
Williamsburg
Orangeburg
PERCENT CHANGE
-4 to 0%
PERCENT CHANGE
1 to 9%
-4 to 0%10 to 15%
1 to 9% 16 to 25%
10 to 15%
26 to 40%
Barnwell Bamberg
Allendale
Dorchester
Georgetown
Berkeley
Colleton
Hampton
Charleston
Jasper Beaufort
16 to 25%
SOURCE
26 to 40%
S.C. BUDGET & CONTROL BOARD
OFFI CE OF RESEARCH & STATI STI CS
Source: SC Budget and Control Board, Office of Research and Statistics.
7
Projections for population and economic growth over the next decade point to continued
increases in the Appalachian, Central Midlands, Lowcountry, Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester,
and Waccamaw Regions. Growth is also anticipated, although at a more moderate rate, for the
remaining five regions – Catawba, Lower Savannah, Pee Dee, Santee-Lynches, and Upper
Savannah. Figure 4 illustrates population density trends in South Carolina.
Figure 4. South Carolina Density by County, 2000
(Persons per Square Mile)
Cherokee
York
SpartanGreen- burg
ville
Union
Pickens
Oconee
Anderson
Abbeville
Chester
Laurens
Lancaster
Kershaw
Fairfield
Marlboro
Chesterfield
Darlington
Newberry
Greenwood
Marion
Lee
Saluda
McCormick
Dillon
Florence
Richland
Horry
Sumter
Lexington
Edgefield
Calhoun
Clarendon
Aiken
Williamsburg
Orangeburg
Barnwell Bamberg
POPULATION
POPULATION
DENSITYDENSITY
Less than Less
50 than 50
50 to 90
50 to 90
Allendale
Dorchester
Georgetown
Berkeley
Colleton
Hampton
Charleston
100 to 149
100 to 149
150 to 300
150 to 300
More than 300
Jasper Beaufort
SOURCE
S.C. BU DGET & CONTROL BOARD
OFFI CE OF RESEARCH & STATI STI CS
More than 300
Source: SC Budget and Control Board, Office of Research and Statistics.
The total number of South Carolina households, at more than 1.5 million in 2000, has grown at
an even faster rate than the population as a whole. This trend is the result of smaller family size
with fewer children, an increase in the number of single-parent households, longevity among the
elderly population, and delayed marriages.
Household growth has been accompanied by a rise in the median age of State residents. The
median age of South Carolinians in 2000 was 35.4 years, a substantial increase from the median
age of 32 years in 1990. Table 4 indicates a trend towards an older population within the State.
These demographic transitions will influence outdoor recreation planning efforts in future years.
8
Table 4. South Carolina Population by Age
3,486,703
0-4 years
#
%
263,156 7.5%
5-19 years
#
%
786,754 22.6%
20-64 years
#
%
2,042,744 58.6%
65 years +
#
%
394,049 11.3%
2000
4,012,012
264,679
6.6%
871,099
21.7%
2,390,901
59.6%
485,333
12.1%
2015
4,501,000
290,000
6.4%
889,000
19.8%
2,652,000
58.9%
670,000
14.9%
Year
Total
1990
Sources: SC Budget and Control Board. South Carolina Statistical Abstract, 2006. Office of Research and
Statistical Services; US Census Bureau, Statistical Abstract of the United States, 2001.
South Carolina ranks as the 7th highest in the nation – behind the District of Columbia and the
States of Hawaii, Mississippi, Maryland, Louisiana and Georgia – in the overall percentage of
minority population. Caucasians and African-Americans comprise 68.4% and 29.2% of the
State’s population, respectively. As shown in Table 5, the State’s African-American population
is more than double the national percentage, while the State’s percentage of Asian, American
Indian, and Hispanic population currently falls below national averages.
The racial composition of the South Carolina population, especially among minorities, will
continue to change in the coming decades. Both the State’s Asian and Hispanic populations are
projected to more than double from 1990 to 2025, representing growth rates six times higher than
the South Carolina population as a whole.
Table 5. South Carolina Population by Race and Ethnicity, 2005
Race/Ethnicity
White
African-American
American Indian/Alaska Native
Asian
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander
Hispanic or Latino*
South Carolina
68.4%
29.2%
0.4%
1.1%
0.1%
3.3%
United States
80.2%
12.8%
1.0%
4.3%
0.2%
14.4%
* Hispanic/Latino is an ethnic designation that includes persons of multiple racial groups,
therefore it is considered separately in regard to percentage of total population.
Source: US Census Bureau, 2005 Population Estimates.
C. ECONOMIC PROFILE
Paralleling the expansion of state economies throughout the South, South Carolina has
experienced heightened economic growth over the last few decades. Emerging from an agrarian
tradition, the State has launched the transformation of its economy into a diversified base of
manufacturing, trade, services, and tourism activity. Located in the heart of the nation’s Sunbelt
with abundant access to five interstate highways and three ports on the Atlantic, South Carolina
is strategically positioned to continue to attract new business and industry.
Between 1990 and 2000, the State attracted more than $48 billion in capital investments and
created more than 237,000 new jobs. Between 2000 and 2006, the State garnered an additional
9
$15.2 billion in capital investment and the creation of more than 87,000 jobs. One-in-five South
Carolina jobs are now in manufacturing. Small business growth also continues to contribute
significantly to the State’s economy, with these smaller businesses numbering in excess of
339,000 in 2006 and also creating nearly one-half of all new jobs in South Carolina.
Tourism activity has evolved into a major economic asset for the Palmetto State. South Carolina
hosts approximately 29 million domestic visitors each year for a total of 103 million visitor days.
South Carolina hosted nearly 1 million international visitors annually. Of these international
visitors to the State, the majority (80%) are from Canada and 20% are from elsewhere, primarily
Europe.
The economic impact of tourism in South Carolina is significant and growing, with travel and
tourism expenditures and investments providing $16 billion in economic activity in 2005 – a
growth of 7% from 2004. The tourism and travel industry now directly and indirectly generates
more than 216,000 jobs for South Carolinians (12% of State employment) and contributes $10.9
billion to the State’s economy or 9% of the State’s total economy. This contribution to South
Carolina’s Gross State Product (GSP) is anticipated to grow to $17 billion by the year 2010. In
2005, more than $1.2 billion of capital investment occurred in the South Carolina tourism
industry.
State and local tax revenue generated from tourism activity totaled more than $1 billion in 2005,
while government expenditures to support tourism activities are estimated at only $439 million.
The fiscal impact from Federal tax revenue generated from tourism totaled $1.2 billion in 2005.
Tax revenue from tourism is expected to continue to grow, although it may be tempered by an
economic slowdown and rising fuel prices.
Outdoor recreation plays an integral, yet largely untapped, role in South Carolina’s burgeoning
tourist industry. Annually, more than 11 million visitors to South Carolina participate in some
form of outdoor recreation during their trip. Coupled with heritage and cultural tourism, outdoor
recreation offers significant economic development opportunities for all regions of the State,
especially for our rural, inland communities.
10
PART III. 2002 SCORP ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan for South Carolina has been updated on a
regular basis since it was first developed in 1965. The initial plan was developed by the South
Carolina Department of Wildlife and Marine Resources (now the South Carolina Department of
Natural Resources). Subsequent plans have been developed by the South Carolina Department
of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, which was created in 1967. The Plan has been revised and
published about every five years, with the most recent being the 2002 South Carolina State
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
The 2002 SCORP identified eleven priority issues to be addressed during the 5-year SCORP
planning period (Chart 1).
Chart 1. 2002 SCORP Priority Implementation Issues
Issue 1: Protect significant lands for natural and cultural resources allowing public
recreational use.
Issue 2: Manage and expand trail resources for walking, jogging/running, bicycling, off-road
vehicle riding, skating, hiking, horse riding, and canoeing/kayaking.
Issue 3: Maintain and improve existing parks and recreational facilities.
Issue 4: Increase funding for a variety of parks and recreational facilities.
Issue 5: Acquire public open space for recreational use, including urban parks, neighborhood
parks, and greenways.
Issue 6: Provide more multi-use athletic complexes and active recreational facilities for
youth.
Issue 7: Create partnerships between and among government agencies and the private sector
to build, maintain, and promote recreation resources, and to implement existing
plans.
Issue 8: Implement existing plans.
Issue 9: Increase opportunities for activities of high recreational demand.
Issue 10: Increase ongoing education efforts to provide information on recreation
opportunities, avoid user conflicts, and protect resources.
Issue 11: Increase public beach access.
Since 2002, SCPRT and other Federal, State and local agencies and organizations have worked
to address the priority issues identified in the 2002 SCORP. A summary of accomplishments
shows notable progress. A complete listing of accomplishments under each priority issue
identified in the 2002 SCORP is included in Appendix F.
11
Protection of significant lands – Since 2002, a number of very significant accomplishments
have been made at both the State and local levels to protect natural and cultural resources.
Foremost among those accomplishments was the adoption and subsequent funding in 2004 of
the SC Conservation Bank Act, which provided grant funding in excess of $70.7 million for the
conservation of more than 134,000 acres of land throughout the State. The work of private,
non-profit land trusts has also been substantial in recent years, with more than 176,460 acres of
land protected by land trusts statewide during 2005 – resulting in a ranking of 17th nationwide
in terms of reported acreage.
Continued partnerships and coordinated efforts among SCPRT, SCDNR, and other allied
organizations leveraged impacts on policies, planning and acquisition efforts statewide. For
instance, joint efforts resulted in the protection of natural and historic resources in the hydro relicensing review process along the Catawba River Corridor. SCDNR added more than 2,800
acres to its Heritage Preserves, along with an additional 47,500 acres of land purchased through
the Heritage Land Trust Fund for habitat protection. Two new Scenic Rivers were designated
in South Carolina by SCDNR – the Great Pee Dee and the Little Pee Dee. The Congaree
Swamp National Monument became the first national park in South Carolina and the new
Congaree National Park was expanded by more than 4,500 acres. More than 150,000 acres of
wetlands and uplands of ACE Basin were protected through purchase, donation, and
conservation easements.
Expansion of trail resources – Public and private agencies and organizations have made
substantial strides in the expansion of trail resources for walking, jogging/running, bicycling,
off-road vehicle riding, skating, hiking, horse riding, and canoeing/kayaking in South Carolina
since 2002. The State’s most comprehensive effort in this arena has been the continued
expansion of the Palmetto Trail, which will eventually traverse the State and link the mountains
to the sea. The Palmetto Conservation Foundation (PCF) – in partnership with Federal and
State agencies, local governments, private foundations, corporations and private landowners –
is coordinating the effort to extend the Trail through the construction of a series of defined
passages. As of December 2007, the Palmetto Trail extended 275 miles – covering more than
half of the Trail’s planned length of 425 miles.
A number of other land and water trails have been constructed, extended, or improved
throughout the State. SCPRT successfully obtained RTP funds for the construction of a trail to
connect Kings Mountain State Park and Kings Mountain National Military Park to Crowders
Mountain State Park in North Carolina. In the Lowcountry, Friends of the Edisto partnered
with the Palmetto Conservation Foundation to establish the North Fork Blueway on the North
Fork Edisto River, while the Berkeley Conservation District and its partners developed the
Berkeley County Blueways, a system of 23 water trails totaling more than 175 miles. In the
Midlands, partners including American Rivers, Congaree National Park, SCDNR, the River
Alliance, and Friends of the Congaree began development of a Congaree River Blue Trail.
Numerous local and regional recreation organizations such as the City of Rock Hill, the
Greenville County Recreation Commission, the Irmo-Chapin Recreation Commission (Saluda
Shoals Park) and the River Alliance constructed and expanded trails and trail systems, while
other local jurisdictions such as Richland County began development of area-wide trail plans.
12
Existing parks and facilities – Federal, State and local agencies and private organizations have
worked diligently to maintain and improve existing parks and recreational facilities throughout
the State since 2002. SCPRT maintained and improved the 139 trails, totaling more than 350
miles, in its state park system. The Department also continued to make trails more accessible
to physically-challenged users through surface improvements at Hunting Island, Edisto Beach,
and Landsford Canal State Parks. To maximize resources, SCPRT, Congaree National Park
and other organizations continued to utilize volunteers and groups for trail and facility
monitoring and maintenance, litter pick up, tour hosting, fund raising for special projects, as
well as trail construction and improvements. Local and regional recreation organizations also
provided significant resources by maintaining existing recreation facilities and making
improvements to many existing recreation facilities statewide.
The US Army Corps of Engineers made significant improvements to a number of its facilities
located on several lakes, including the construction of picnic shelters, playgrounds, sidewalks,
restrooms, and courtesy docks; renovation of campsites; and installation of lighting at its
recreation areas, ramps and campgrounds located throughout the State.
Funding – The securing of adequate funding for parks and recreation has long been a key
concern in South Carolina. While many funding programs have increased very little or even
decreased in recent years, significant progress has been made since the 2002 SCORP,
particularly in the area of land conservation. The SC Conservation Bank Act launched the
State’s first conservation land bank program for the purchase of land and easements. The Bank
has provided more than $70 million for the conservation of more than 134,000 acres of land
since 2004. Although limited, funding for recreation programs and facilities in some local
jurisdictions was enhanced through a wide range of methods such as partnerships, tax
allocations, and one-time capital funding.
Public open space – Significant progress has been made by regional and local agencies and
private organizations in acquiring lands for recreational use, neighborhood parks, and
greenways. At the State level, SCPRT acquired or agreed to lease additional public open space
for recreational use at a number of locations including Landsford Canal, Great Falls,
Blackstock Battlefield, Caesars Head and Paris Mountain. SCDNR added more than 2,800
acres to its Heritage Preserves, along with an additional 47,500 acres of land purchased through
the Heritage Land Trust Fund for habitat protection. Local and regional governments
throughout the State acquired land for outdoor recreation and made improvements that enable
greater access to outdoor recreation, such as the Reedy River Falls and Lake Conestee Parks in
Greenville.
A number of local governments such as Charleston, Greenville, and Spartanburg Counties and
organizations such as the River Alliance in the Columbia area developed plans for and began
implementation of local and regional greenway systems. In 2007, the Central Midlands
Council of Governments completed Keeping it Green in the Midlands, a regional plan for
assembling a network of open spaces in its four-county planning area.
Multi-use recreational facilities – The need for athletic complexes and community recreational
facilities is largely shouldered by local jurisdictions and recreation organizations. At the State
13
level, SCPRT continued administration of the Federal LWCF and RTP grant programs as well
as the State RELT and PARD funds that support such facilities. Athletic fields and courts were
established as a funding priority for the LWCF and RELT programs. Local and regional
recreation organizations such as those in Greenville, Richland and York Counties and the cities
of Rock Hill and Greenville expanded and constructed multi-use recreational facilities such as
tennis centers, multi-use fields and recreation centers. Funding of these facilities will remain a
challenge for local communities throughout the State.
Public-Private partnerships – The provision of outdoor recreation in South Carolina has
included a long history of partnerships, cooperation and collaboration among public and private
agencies and organizations to build, maintain, and promote recreation resources, and to
implement existing plans. This tradition continued during the 2002-2007 SCORP
implementation period, with numerous existing partnerships continued and new partnerships
established to protect resources and provide recreational access for the residents of South
Carolina. At the State level, SCPRT, SCDNR and a number of other stakeholders were active
participants in multiple hydroelectric re-licensing agreement processes including the Lake
Murray/Saluda review with SCE&G and the Catawba/Lake Wateree review with Duke Energy
to ensure that public open space is conserved, recreational resources are considered, and public
access and use is maximized. SCDOT worked with SCPRT, local/regional governments, and
tourism groups to improve the scenic nature of designated scenic highways. SCPRT was an
active participant with the Palmetto Conservation Foundation and other organizations in the
Cradle of Democracy project aimed at protecting and promoting Revolutionary War heritage in
South Carolina. SCPRT also coordinated the 2005 State Recreation Resources Forum that was
attended by representatives from 12 different agencies. The Department was also a lead partner
with SCDNR and the SC Forestry Commission in the 2007 South Carolina Trails Conference
that focused on both land and water trails.
Existing plan implementation – Numerous State and local plans related to outdoor recreation
were continued, launched and/or completed in the five years since the last SCORP. Plan
implementation was advanced for resources ranging from trails, river corridors and greenways
to tourism and state parks. SCPRT teamed with diverse partners to advance land and water
trail resources throughout the State. SCPRT, the Palmetto Conservation Foundation, and other
groups to continued to work toward the implementation of the 2002 SC State Trails Plan.
These joint efforts contributed to the expansion of the Palmetto Trail to 275 miles in length –
well over half of the planned goal of 425 miles. The development of the East Coast Greenway
Trail that will weave through the coastal counties of South Carolina also progressed with trail
segments added in Horry, Georgetown, Charleston, and Beaufort Counties due to the efforts of
the East Coast Greenway Association, local governments, SCPRT, and others.
Recreational water resources were addressed as SCDNR – in concert with SCPRT, local
advisory councils, and other stakeholders – implemented the goals and recommendations of a
number of river management plans for key water resources including the Ashley, Saluda, Black,
Lynches, Reedy, and Catawba Rivers to promote and enhance recreational access. In the area
of tourism, SCPRT continued to implement its Nature-Based Tourism Plan to grow tourism,
while utilizing the State’s natural and cultural resources in a sustainable manner. The
Department continued its work with local interests to implement the South Carolina Heritage
14
Corridor Plan. SCPRT continued to implement components of the State Park Vision for the
21st Century, focusing on stewardship and service in the State Park Service.
Opportunities for high demand activities – Federal and State agencies, local governments, and
local recreation organizations encouraged and provided many new opportunities for high
demand outdoor recreation activities throughout South Carolina over the last five years. The
SCPRT grant process focused on providing funding for activities of high recreational demand
such as walking, running, playing ball, attending sporting events, fishing, wildlife and bird
watching and picnicking. SCPRT also continued to play a significant role in increasing
opportunities for outdoor recreation at state parks for high demand activities such as hiking and
walking, wildlife watching, camping, golf, picnicking, fishing, and historic site visitation.
Education efforts – With increased public access to technology such as computers and the
internet in recent years, recreation providers in South Carolina have been able to greatly
enhance their efforts to provide information about recreation opportunities, educate the public
about potential user conflicts, and promote the protection of natural and cultural resources.
Federal and State agencies, local governments, and recreation organizations updated and
enhanced their web sites to include a wide range of information about outdoor recreation
opportunities and resources.
Significant accomplishments were also made in the provision of on-site education and
interpretation at locations throughout the State. SCPRT constructed visitor centers at Charles
Towne Landing, Musgrove Mill, Edisto Beach State Park and Paris Mountain that will provide
visitor interpretation and awareness of park resources and enhanced opportunities for
educational outreach programs. The Congaree National Park made improvements to its visitor
center; provided full staffing for the Old Growth Bottomland Forest Research and Education
Center; expanded its educational outreach efforts to include K-12, higher education and
informal public science programs; developed partnerships with the research community to
utilize the new Learning Center; and provided a dedicated Education Coordinator. The
Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge installed interpretive kiosks and new exhibits that
detail educational opportunities at the Refuge.
Beach access – The provision of public beach access has largely been the responsibility of
local governments over the last 5 years. The SCDHEC Office of Coastal Resource
Management continued to encourage public beach access through implementation of the
policies of the Coastal Zone Management Act and the Beachfront Management Act. SCPRT
continued to maintain important public beach access opportunities at Hunting Island, Edisto
Beach, Huntington Beach and Myrtle Beach State Parks.
15
PART IV. STATE OUTDOOR RECREATION GOALS
The guiding goals for the 2008 South Carolina State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
(SCORP) are derived from a combination of overlapping legislative, agency, departmental and
statewide outdoor recreation planning goals.
A. LEGISLATIVE GOALS
Eleven primary outdoor recreation goals have been established for the South Carolina
Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism (SCPRT) by the South Carolina General
Assembly. These goals address the responsibilities and project the leading role of the SCPRT
in promoting, developing, acquiring, coordinating and planning for use of the State’s outdoor
recreation resources.
Legislative Goal 1:
To promote, publicize, and advertise the State's tourist attractions.
Legislative Goal 2:
To promote the general health and welfare of the people of the State by
developing and expanding new and existing recreational areas, including
the existing State Park Service.
Legislative Goal 3:
To develop a coordinated plan utilizing to best advantage the natural
facilities and resources of the State as a tourist attraction, recognizing the
mountainous areas and coastal plains, each of which has the potential of
attracting many visitors in all seasons to take advantage of the natural
scenery, the outdoor sports (including hunting, fishing, and swimming),
and other recreational activities (such as golfing, boating, and
sightseeing).
Legislative Goal 4:
To include in the plan the preservation and perpetuation of the State's
rich historical heritage by acquiring and owning, recognizing, marking,
and publicizing areas, sites, buildings, and other landmarks, and items of
national and statewide historical interest and significance to the history
of our State.
Legislative Goal 5:
To use all available services of the several agencies in the management
of forest and wildlife resources.
Legislative Goal 6:
To lease or convey portions of lands under its jurisdiction to
municipalities and other political subdivisions charged with the
responsibility of providing parks and recreation facilities.
Legislative Goal 7:
To borrow money for the purposes of acquisition, construction,
development, and maintenance of such lands and facilities as the
Director is empowered to operate and issue evidences of such
indebtedness thereof in the form of notes or bonds.
16
Legislative Goal 8:
To enter into contracts with the United States Government, its various
departments and agencies, for the purpose of obtaining funds, property,
or any other purpose which will assist the Department in carrying out the
provisions for which it has been created.
Legislative Goal 9:
To allocate funds made available to the Department for development and
improvement of park properties in the State system and historic sites.
Legislative Goal 10: To study and ascertain the State's present park, parkway, and outdoor
recreational resources and facilities, the need for such resources and
facilities, and the extent to which these needs are now being met.
Determine the land suitable and desirable to be acquired as a part of the
state park and outdoor recreational system, with due consideration being
given to the scenic, recreational, archaeological, and other special
features attractive to out-of-state visitors and to State residents.
Legislative Goal 11: To promote economic diversity in all areas of the State by extending the
full benefits of tourism and recreation development. The Department
shall coordinate and act as liaison with regional tourism organizations,
local chambers of commerce, development agencies and other Federal,
State, regional and local agencies and organizations to promote
economic and business development, the expansion of tourism,
retirement, recreational, cultural and heritage events.
B. SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, RECREATION
AND TOURISM MISSION AND GOALS
South Carolina is blessed with an abundance of natural and man-made resources – historic
cities that attract visitors from all over the world, pristine beaches that stretch uninterrupted for
miles, small towns that offer a unique glimpse into days gone by, black water rivers for a
peaceful day of kayaking or canoeing and spectacular golf courses that wow the avid amateur
and challenge the best touring pros. These assets and more have helped fuel a year-round
tourism business and transform the tourism sector into an economic powerhouse that now ranks
as the State’s number one industry. To advance the effort anticipated by the General Assembly
when it created the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism in 1967, the
Agency has articulated the following mission and vision.
1. SCPRT Mission
To raise personal income of South Carolinians by creating a better environment for economic
growth through delivering State government services more effectively, improving quality of
life and promoting economic development through tourism.
17
2. SCPRT Vision
Shaping and sharing a better South Carolina through stewardship, service, economic
development and marketing.
C. SOUTH CAROLINA STATE COMPREHENSIVE OUTDOOR
RECREATION PLAN GOALS
Based on the guiding legislative goals and agency mission, the general outdoor recreation goals
of the 2008 State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) provide for a formal
planning process, conserve South Carolina’s rich natural and cultural resources, and contribute
to the State’s economic well-being and quality of life. The 2008 SCORP is anchored by six
goals:
SCORP Goal 1:
To continue a planning process for outdoor recreation which provides
coordination with other agencies and organizations, implements the
approved plan, and adjusts the plan periodically for the changing needs
of the population and visitors.
SCORP Goal 2:
To provide the people of South Carolina and its visitors with a balanced
and comprehensive recreation system of public and private land and
sites.
SCORP Goal 3:
To provide South Carolinians and visitors opportunities to understand
and enjoy the State's historic and natural heritage.
SCORP Goal 4:
To provide to all segments of the population opportunities for outdoor
recreation experiences and an improved quality of life.
SCORP Goal 5:
To encourage cooperative efforts between various agencies and levels of
government, between private enterprise and government, and between
volunteers and resource managers.
SCORP Goal 6:
To encourage sustainable development and give consideration to the
local economic, social, and natural resource impacts resulting from the
location and development of recreation areas.
18
PART V. SCORP PLANNING PROCESS
The State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) is updated and prepared for
publication and distribution on a five-year cycle. Implementation of the Plan is considered a
continuous process. The process employed to develop the 2008 South Carolina SCORP is
defined by an inclusive and participatory eight-step planning process that is grounded in
extensive public participation and agency involvement.
Planning Step 1:
SCPRT hosted the South Carolina Recreation Resources Forum, an
interagency discussion of issues and current/future actions. This meeting
provided a sound overview of concerns faced by Federal, State and local
agencies in their efforts to provide recreational opportunities around the
State.
Planning Step 2:
SCPRT staff developed a planning process outline, development timeline,
and plan content outline.
Planning Step 3:
Plan goals were established based on the primary goals assigned by the
General Assembly to SCPRT and the Department’s mission, vision and
strategic goals.
Planning Step 4:
A Recreation Participation and Preference Study was conducted in 2005
through a contract with the Survey Research Laboratory of the Institute for
Public Service and Policy Research at the University of South Carolina.
The purpose of the study was to determine recreational preferences and
actual participation among South Carolinians to include a trend analysis.
The study was based on random telephone surveys of more than 2,100
residents.
Planning Step 5:
A series of five public workshops were held throughout the State in 2007
to identify and prioritize current issues and needs concerning outdoor
recreation in South Carolina. Issues and proposed actions were also
requested from extensive email and mail lists of individuals and
representatives of agencies and organizations. News releases that
publicized the events also invited written suggestions.
Planning Step 6:
A central meeting was held with key Federal, State, and local recreation
resource providers from across the State to discuss current and future
activities and review and comment on the results of the regional
workshops.
Planning Step 7:
Planning consultants and SCPRT staff completed the draft plan.
Notifications were disseminated to individuals who attended workshops
and the numerous State, Federal, and local agencies and other
organizations about availability of the draft for review and comment. The
draft was also posted for review on the SCPRT website.
19
Planning Step 8:
After receipt of comments, edits were made as needed and the final plan
was developed, printed, and distributed to interested parties. The plan was
forwarded to the National Park Service and the Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission for acceptance as the State Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan. It was also posted on the Department’s website at
www.scprt.com.
Planning Step 9:
Plan implementation will be accomplished through the multiple agencies
and organizations identified within the implementation strategies
prioritized in the interagency focus meeting. The SC Outdoor Recreation
Plan will be updated in five years.
20
PART VI. SCORP PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS
Public participation in the SCORP process was generated through multiple processes and
forums that included formal surveys, public workshops, interagency focus meetings,
interviews, and web-based review of planning documents. These public participation strategies
are profiled below:
South Carolina Recreational Resources Forum – In March 2005, SCPRT convened the
statewide Recreational Resources Forum, bringing together State, Federal and local
agencies to explore common issues and share information related to the State’s public
recreation resources, as well as explore opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.
The Forum was the third in a series of workshops, with previous meetings held in 1995 and
1998. Representatives from the US Forest Service, the US Army Corps of Engineers, the
National Park Service, the US Fish & Wildlife Service, the SC Department of Natural
Resources, the SC Forestry Commission, SCPRT, and the SC Recreation and Parks
Association attended the 2005 Forum and provided valuable information related to the
recreational resources provided by their agency or organization, as well as the role of
recreation within their organization’s mission and goals.
South Carolina Recreation Participation and Preference Study – SCPRT contracted with
the University of South Carolina's Institute for Public Service and Policy Research to
conduct a telephone survey of more than 2,118 State residents aged 12 and older on
September 13 and November 18, 2005. Respondents were asked a series of questions about
their favorite recreational activities and actual participation rates for 44 recreational
activities over the past year. This survey was based on previous surveys conducted at fiveyear intervals and trends were noted. Results were also reported based on the State’s ten
planning districts.
Participation in South Carolina State Survey – Since 1989, the USC Institute for Public
Service and Policy Research has conducted the South Carolina State Survey – an omnibus
biennial survey that utilizes a random digit dialed telephone survey process to interview
adults age 18 and older statewide. The 2007 survey includes questions about the role of
SCPRT, the primary role of state parks, visits to state parks, state park services, and
environmental protection. A previous survey conducted in 2001 also included questions
related to the acquisition and development of land for public open space and trails,
including prioritizing the types of public open space and trails to be developed. The most
recent State Survey was conducted from May to June in 2007 and surveyed more than 800
South Carolinians.
Public Workshops – In October and November of 2007, SCPRT and the Matheny-Burns
Group conducted a series of five statewide public workshops held in strategic locations
throughout the State. Different times and locations were used to increase accessibility of
the meetings. These workshops were held in Greenville, Columbia, North Charleston,
Barnwell County and Darlington County. News releases were sent to local media around
the State and direct mail notification was made to representatives of local park and
recreation departments, Councils of Government, and State and Federal agencies. More
21
than 275 individuals and groups were notified by email and encouraged to send the notice
to their constituencies. These groups included the State Trails Advisory Committee,
statewide conservation groups, the South Carolina Recreation & Parks Association, the
South Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association, the South Carolina Wildlife
Federation, and other public and private recreation interests. Sixty-six people participated
in the regional workshops in which participants identified 60 recreational issues, which
were subsequently refined into 15 major issues. An additional 15 emails were received that
provided further comments on issues, proposed actions, or other recommendations for
outdoor recreation in South Carolina.
Interagency Focus Group Meeting – A focus group meeting was held in November 2007
with a broad representation of State, Federal, and local organizations to determine
implementation strategies and actions which are, or could be, taken to impact the identified
outdoor recreation issues.
Draft Plan Review – Review and comments on the draft plan were requested from
numerous individuals representing agencies and organizations and those attending the
public workshops. This was facilitated by posting the draft plan on the SCPRT website and
notifying planning participants and other interested parties of its availability and providing
print copies upon request to those lacking web access.
22
PART VII. STATE OUTDOOR RECREATION ASSESSMENT
South Carolina is home to a variety of outdoor recreation resources ranging from public
facilities provided by Federal, State, and local governments to private facilities open to the
public or for exclusive use through ownership or lease. Demand for recreational opportunities
continues to grow as the State’s population grows, as more residents and visitors expand
interest and usage, and as residents and visitors alike seek new activities.
A. RECREATION RESOURCES
1. Public Facilities
There are numerous publicly-owned recreation facilities in South Carolina ranging from a
national park and state parks, to local parks and single purpose facilities such as boat access
ramps. Figure 5 depicts the Parks, Natural Areas, Recreation Areas, and Historic Sites that
comprise the South Carolina State Park Service. The various public facilities in the State are
developed and managed by multiple agencies at different levels of government, with some
recreational facilities leased from the private sector. The most recent study of public facilities
available, the Public Recreation Facility Inventory conducted in 1989-90, identified more than
one million acres of recreation facilities in South Carolina. As traditional funding sources
decline and maintenance and upgrade costs for recreational facilities continue to increase, most
public facilities have begun collecting user fees to offset operation and maintenance costs. The
following sections summarize the public recreational resources available in the State. Contact
information for the various State and Federal agencies with primary responsibility for each
resource is provided at the end of each section.
a. State Parks
The South Carolina State Park Service encompasses 47 state parks totaling more than 80,000
acres. Activities and events vary at each park but often include natural or historical attractions,
camping, lodging, picnicking, interpretive and educational programs, swimming, fishing,
boating, hiking, equestrian trails, playgrounds, golf, tennis, biking, or community buildings.
Table 6 lists the Parks, Natural Areas, Recreation Areas, and Historic Sites within South
Carolina’s State Park Service and provides details on the activities available at each park.
The South Carolina State Park Service has a tremendous responsibility for the management,
protection and promotion of some of the Palmetto State’s most treasured resources. South
Carolina’s park properties are valued most for their contribution to the State’s base of natural
and historic areas, providing South Carolinians with public access to diverse outdoor
recreation, natural, cultural, and educational experiences that are representative of the State’s
rich base of natural and historic resources. This unique base of properties is an integral part of
the State’s tourism product.
An intensive review of the State Park System by a 10-member interagency team in 1997
yielded a strategic management plan entitled The New Vision for the 21st Century. The study
23
was the first comprehensive evaluation of South Carolina’s State Park System in a decade.
Throughout the plan, strategies and management activities are defined that provide a road map
for the fulfillment of the Park Service’s mission. Input from both employees and park users has
been used to revise and improve many of the concepts initially outlined in the original 1997
study. All plan objectives are fostered through the basic principles of stewardship and service.
The 2003 updated edition of the South Carolina State Park Service strategic management plan
continues the focus on the core concepts of stewardship and service and charts the future
direction for South Carolina’s state parks. New approaches to the management of the State
Park Service, including the development of management classifications and annual reviews of
park specific General Management Plans, will enable the Agency to accomplish the five longterm goals established in the 2003 planning document.
Chart 2. SC State Park Service 2003 Strategic Management Plan Goals
Goal 1:
To serve as responsible stewards of the diverse natural and cultural resources
entrusted to the SC State Park Service.
Goal 2:
To provide quality services to our customers.
Goal 3:
To provide an aesthetically pleasing physical environment in parks through
methods that complement the Park Service’s mission of stewardship and service.
Goal 4:
To manage the fiscal resources of the Park Service in an efficient and responsible
manner.
Goal 5:
To maximize the effectiveness of the State Park Service’s human resources.
SCPRT recognizes its responsibility to effectively manage a State Park Service by working
toward an appropriate mix of park products. While the existing state park properties meet
many of these needs, the 2003 Vision recommends the development of a comprehensive,
proactive program to help protect and preserve examples of the State’s unique natural and
cultural features. In addition, progress has been made on a few of the 14 sites that were
specifically listed as targets for protection. Unfortunately, additional funding is not readily
available to acquire, develop, or operate new park properties in support of this goal.
Contact:
SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
State Park Service
1205 Pendleton Street
Columbia, SC 29201
803/734-0156
www.southcarolinaparks.com
24
Baker Creek State Park (24)
Barnwell State Park (28)
Caesars Head State Park-The
Mtn. Bridge (8)
Calhoun Falls State Recreation
Area (22)
Charles Towne Landing State
Historic Site (45)
Cheraw State Park (36)
864/443-2457
803/284-2212
196 Andrew Jackson Pk Rd, Lancaster, SC
29720
863 Baker Creek Rd., McCormick, SC 29835
223 State Park Rd, Blackville, SC 29817
864/836-6115
8155 Geer Highway, Cleveland, SC 29635
864/447-8267
843/537-9656
46 Maintenance Rd, Calhoun Falls, SC
29628
1500 Old Towne Road, Charleston, SC
29407
100 State Park Rd, Cheraw, SC 29520
Chester State Park (14)
Colleton State Park (43)
Colonial Dorchester St. Historic
Site (44)
Croft State Natural Area (11)
803/385-2680
843/538-8206
843/873-1740
759 State Park Drive, Chester, SC 29706
147 Wayside Lane, Canadys, SC 29433
300 State Park Rd, Summerville, SC 29485
864/585-1283
Devils Fork State Park (5)
Dreher Island State Recreation
Area (20)
Edisto Beach State Park (46)
Givhans Ferry State Park (42)
843/852-4200
25;PG
H,I
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H,B
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307
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7,467
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318
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8;GL
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7,054
50;PG
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864/944-2639
803/364-4152
450 Croft State Park Rd, Spartanburg, SC
29302
161 Holcombe Circle, Salem, SC 29676
3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC 29127
843/869-2756
843/873-0692
8377 State Cabin Rd, Edisto Is., SC 29438
746 Givhans Ferry Rd, Ridgeville, SC 29472
1,255
988
Goodale State Park (33)
803/432-2772
650 Park Rd, Camden, SC 29020
H. Cooper Black Mem. Field Trial
& Rec. Area (35)
Hamilton Branch State Recreation
Area (25)
Hampton Plantation State Historic
Site (41)
Hickory Knob State Resort Park
(23)
Hunting Island State Park (47)
843/378-1555
279 Sporting Dog Trail, Cheraw, SC 29520
864/333-2223
111 Campground Rd, Plum Branch, SC
29845
1950 Rutledge Road, McClellanville, SC
29458
1591 Resort Dr., McCormick, SC 29835
843/838-2011
Huntington Beach State Park (40)
Jones Gap State Park-The Mtn.
Bridge (9)
Keowee-Toxaway State Natural
Area (6)
Kings Mountain State Park (15)
Lake Greenwood State Recreation
Area (21)
59; 25T;B
BR,RF,
FB,RS
S-2
Y
BR,FB,
C,K
FB
BR;FB
ET,SR,
ST,EC
S-2
Y
M
S-3
Y
A,M
CCC
S-1
Y
Y
S-3
Y
RL
BR
S-2
Y
RL
S-14
Y
111; 5T
7
H,I,B
O
BR,RS,
RF
BR
25;PG
4
H
R
H,W
PL
5,000
843/237-4440
2555 Sea Island Pkwy, Hunting Island, SC
29920
16148 Ocean Hwy., Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
864/836-3647
303 Jones Gap Road, Marietta, SC 29661
3,346
183;10T;
PG
128;6T;
PG
TS:PG
864/868-2605
108 Residence Drive, Sunset, SC 29685
803/222-3209
864/543-3535
1277 Park Rd, Blacksburg, SC 29702
302 State Park Road, Ninety-Six, SC 29666
1,000 10;14T;TS;
PG
6,883 116;10T;PG
914 125; 5T; PG
BR,FB,
C
Y
Y
M
E
CCC
S-2
M
CCC
Y
S-3
Y
Y
NR
S-2
S-2
Y
M
ET,ST,
EC
274
44
TN,M
LS*
NR,
MUS
CCC
H
1,091
CCC
Y
H
27;
+tents
171;11T;
PG
Y
S-1
5
763
2,500
CCC
20
348 97; 15T;PG
731
S-2
S-1
25;PG
7,000
S-3
I
25;PG
644
BR,FB,
C,K
FB
Programs/
Tours
PL,R
Golf
Picnic Area
Equestrian
Boating
Cabins/
Villas
MUS
H
664
25
M
25;B;PG
35
325
800/491-1764
Y
1,067
523
843/546-9361
Historic
803/285-3344
Misc.
Andrew Jackson State Park (16)
Playground
1145 State Park Rd, Windsor, SC 29856
Fishing
803/649-2857
Trails
Aiken State Natural Area (27)
Camp
Sites
South Carolina State Park Service
1205 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC 29201
1-888-88-PARKS www.SouthCarolinaParks.com
Acres
Table 6. South Carolina State Park Service Facilities
18; LR
78;GL
14
1
GL
B
RL
H,B
R
H, I,
B
H,B
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BR
S-1
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N
S-3
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E
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O,
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O
H
R
Y
I,H
RL
S-5
H
PL
FB*,C*
H
RL,
FP
BR
NHL,
MUS
ET, EC
Y
NR,
CCC
NHL
Y
Y
Y
MUS
S-5
S-4
Y
CCC
Y
M
CCC
MUS
Y
BR
S-4
Y
238
72
H
RL,
FP
RL
BR,RF
Y
Y
S-1
Y
803/482-6401
881 State Park Rd, Winnsboro, SC 29180
803/789-5800
803/428-5307
2051 Park Drive, Catawba, SC 29704
487 Loop Rd, Bishopville, SC 29010
Little Pee Dee State Park (37)
843/774-8872
1298 State Park Rd, Dillon, SC 29536
Musgrove Mill State Historic Site
(13)
Myrtle Beach State Park (39)
864/938-0100
843/238-5325
Oconee State Park (3)
864/638-5353
Oconee Station State Historic Site 864/638-0079
(4)
Paris Mountain State Park (10)
864/244-5565
Camp
Sites
Acres
Lake Wateree State Rec. Area
(18)
Landsford Canal State Park (17)
Lee State Natural Area (34)
448
I, H
R
H
R
835 32;18T;PG
H
PL
398 State Park Rd, Clinton, SC 29325
340
I
4401 South Kings Hwy., Myrtle Beach, SC
29575
624 State Park Rd, Mountain Rest, SC
29664
500 Oconee Station Rd, Walhalla, SC 29691
312
281;30T
5; A-2
H
1,165
140;15T;
PG
19; GL
H,B
R,
PL
O,
FP
PL
H,B
PL
2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609
1,540
GL
H,I,B
PL
FB,C,K
1,000 24;26T;PG
5
H
PL
FB
2,839
25;PG
210
Poinsett State Park (32)
803/494-8177
Redcliffe Plantation State Historic
Site (26)
Rivers Bridge State Historic Site
(30)
Rose Hill Plantation State Historic
Site (12)
Sadlers Creek State Recreation
Area (1)
Santee State Park (31)
803/827-1473
6660 Poinsett Park Rd, Wedgefield, SC
29168
181 Redcliffe Rd., Beech Island, SC 29842
803/267-3675
325 State Park Rd, Ehrhardt, SC 29081
864/427-5966
2677 Sardis Rd., Union, SC 29379
864/226-8950
803/854-2408
940 Sadlers Creek Park Rd, Anderson, SC
29626
251 State Park Rd, Santee, SC 29142
Sesquicentennial State Park (19)
Table Rock State Park (7)
803/788-2706
864/878-9813
9564 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29223
158 East Ellison, Pickens, SC 29671
Woods Bay State Natural Area
(38)
843/659-4445
11020 Woods Bay Rd., Olanta, SC 29114
1,591
39;PG
ET,SR,
ST,EC
BR,FB,
C,K
S-2
S-2
Y
S-4
Y
Y
S-7
ET, EC
H
S-1
84;PG
GL
H,B
96;TS;PG
14
LS*,
M,E
CCC
Y
Y
Y
44
3,083
Y
LS,M NR,
CG CCC
NR
Y
NR,
MUS
S-1
1,419
Y
N
NR
MUS
CCC
Y
I
30
Y
NR,
MUS
NR
390
2,498
CCC
CCC
Y
H,B,
W
H,B
NHL
E
S-5
I
52; 10T;
PG
158;PG
M
Y
S-7
369
395
M
Y
FB,C,
K*,PD*
Programs/
Tours
Playground
I,H
803/943-5051
Golf
Picnic Area
Y
680
Historic
Boating
S-1
19138-A South Highway 11, Fair Play, SC
29643
1079 Lake Warren Rd, Hampton, SC 29924
864/972-3352
Misc.
Fishing
BR
Lake Hartwell State Recreation
Area (2)
Lake Warren State Park (29)
Equestrian
Trails
RL
South Carolina State Park Service
1205 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC 29201
1-888-88-PARKS www.SouthCarolinaParks.com
Cabins/
Villas
W
440
116; 13T;
2CC
PG
Table 6. South Carolina State Park Service Facilities
M
Y
RL
BR
S-2
Y
M
RL,
FP
PL
BR,RF,
FB,C,K
FB,C,K
S-6
Y
S-5
Y
TN,
M
M
CCC
Y
H
PL,
FP
S-4
Y
LS*,
M,N
NR,
CCC
Y
I
PL
BR,FB*
C*,K*,
PD*
C,K
S-1
N
Y
Campsites: (T) Tent Sites, (TS) Trailside, (PG) Primitive Group, (B) Boat-in, (CC) Camper Cabins
Trails: (I) Interpretive, (H) Hiking, (B) Bike, (W) Walking
Cabins/Villas: (LR) Lodge Rooms, (GL) Group Lodging
Fishing: (PL) Park Lake, (R) River, (RL) Reservoir Lake, (FP) Fishing Pier, (O) Ocean
Equestrian: (ET) Equestrian Trail, (SR) Show Ring, (ST) Stables, (EC) Camping
Picnic Area: (S) # of Shelters
Miscellaneous: (TN) Tennis, (CG) Carpet Golf, (A) Archery, (SK) Skeet, (LS) Lake Swimming, (M) Meeting Facility
Boating: (BR) Boat Ramp, (RS) Rental Slip, (RF) In-boat Refueling, (C)Canoe Rental, (K) Kayak Rental, (FB) Fishing Boat Rental, (PD) Pedal Boat Rental
Historic Resources: (CCC) Civilian Conservation Corp, (NHL) National Historic Landmark, (NR) National Register of Historic Places, (MUS) Museum, (E) Education Center, (N) Nature Center
* Seasonal
26
Figure 5. South Carolina State Park Service
Source: SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, August 2007.
27
b. Scenic Rivers
South Carolina shares most of the Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River with the State of
Georgia, with a portion in North Carolina. This 57-mile river corridor lies primarily within the
three surrounding national forests. The Chattooga River flows from its origin un-impounded
by any man-made structure for 60 miles, making it one of the longest free flowing rivers in the
southeastern United States. From its North Carolina headwaters at an elevation of 3,360 feet
until it flows southward into Tugaloo Lake in Georgia, the Chattooga River descends 2,469 feet
in elevation – making it one of the best whitewater recreational rivers in the eastern United
States. Whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking are key activities on the Chattooga, along
with trout fishing, hiking, primitive camping, and nature observation.
Contact:
USDA Forest Service
4931 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29212-3530
803/561-4000
www.rivers.gov/wildriverslist.html
Nine South Carolina river segments have been designated State Scenic Rivers to date and
several others are considered eligible under the South Carolina Scenic River Program. The
program is administered by the Land, Water and Conservation Division of the SC Department
of Natural Resources with the purpose of protecting the unique or outstanding scenic,
recreational, geologic, botanical, fish, wildlife, historic, or cultural values of selected rivers.
Scenic River corridor protection is achieved through a voluntary, cooperative, and communitybased process that involves landowners, river users, public officials, and other stakeholders.
Table 7 lists and describes the current National Wild and Scenic Rivers, State Scenic Rivers,
and rivers determined eligible for State Scenic River status in South Carolina.
Contact:
SC Department of Natural Resources
Scenic Rivers Program
Post Office Box 167
Columbia, SC 29202
803/734 -9100
www.dnr.sc.gov/water/envaff/river/scenicrivers.html
28
Table 7. National and State Designated Scenic Rivers of South Carolina
Year
Designated
/Eligible
River
National Wild and Scenic Rivers
1974
Chattooga River
South Carolina Scenic Rivers
1978
Middle Saluda
1990
Little Pee Dee
1991
Lower Saluda
Miles
57
Location
Headwaters in North Carolina to Lake Tugaloo
5
14
10
US Hwy. 276 to 1 mile above Cleveland Fish Hatchery
US Hwy. 378 to confluence with Great Pee Dee River
1 mile below Lake Murray to confluence with Broad
River
1991
Broad
15
Ninety-nine Islands Hydro Plant to confluence with
Pacolet River
1994
Lynches
54
US Hwy 15 in Lee County to eastern boundary of
Lynches River County Park in Florence County
1998
Ashley
22
Sland's Bridge (US Hwy 17-A) near Summerville to
Mark Clark expressway (I-526) bridge in Charleston
2001
Black River
75
County Road #40 in Clarendon County to Pea House
Landing at end of County Road #38 in Georgetown
County
2002
Great Pee Dee River
70
US 378 Bridge between Florence and Marion Counties
and US 17 Bridge in Georgetown
2005
Little Pee Dee –
48
Marlboro County line above Parish Mill Bridge on State
Dillon County
Road 363 to confluence with Buck Swamp at Marion
County line
Rivers Eligible for South Carolina Scenic River Status
1976
Congaree
37
Mouth of Congaree Creek to Southern Railroad Bridge,
2.5 miles upstream of US Hwy. 601
1986
Whitewater
1.8
NC State Line to Lake Jocassee
1986
Thompson
0.8
NC State Line to Lake Jocassee
1989
Edisto
44
US Hwy. 21 to Givhans Ferry State Park
1996
Little Pee Dee/Lumber
64
NC State Line on Lumber River to US Hwy 378 on
Little Pee Dee River
Source: SC Dept. of Natural Resources, 2007.
c. State Forests
The South Carolina Forestry Commission manages five state forests encompassing more than
90,000 acres in South Carolina - Sand Hills, Harbison, Poe Creek, Manchester, and Wee Tee.
A wide range of outdoor recreational activities are offered and vary within each Forest.
Permits available for purchase at three of the forests and by mail are required for trail activities
including horseback riding, use of all terrain vehicles (ATVs), motorcycles and bicycles in
three of the state forests. Permits are not required for activities in the Wee Tee State Forest.
Permits from the appropriate agencies are also required for regulated activities including the
operation of certain motor vehicles, the use of firearms, hunting, and fishing.
29
Sand Hills State Forest contains 46,000 acres and is located in Chesterfield and Darlington
Counties. Recreational opportunities include bird watching, nature study, hiking, hunting,
fishing, and picnicking. Horseback riding, mountain bike riding, individual camping, and
special events are also operated at Sand Hills on a fee basis. Sugar Loaf Mountain, an unusual
geological phenomenon towering one hundred feet above the surrounding area, is maintained
within the Forest as a family recreational area. Some of the more than 20 miles of equestrian
trails and sand roads for horseback riding within the H. Cooper Black, Jr. Memorial Sporting
Dog Field Trial and Recreation Area lead into the Sand Hills State Forest. The Cooper Black
facility, managed by SCPRT, is the setting for national-level field trial and retriever
competitions and offers facilities for field trials, retrievers, horseback riding and fox hunting –
all on a modest fee basis. Additional facilities are available for rental during these events,
which include stall rental, meeting room, kitchen, and full service and primitive camping sites.
Manchester State Forest is located in Sumter County and contains nearly 28,000 acres,
including the largest ATV trail system (18 miles) in the State. Manchester is host to popular
equestrian events, such as the Governor’s Ride, that draw participants from throughout South
Carolina and neighboring states. The State Forest is also the site of the High Hills of Santee
Passage of the Palmetto Trail that now links the Wateree Swamp to the coastal fishing village
of McClellanville in Charleston County on a continuous, uninterrupted hiking route. The 14mile section of the Trail is adjacent to the Wateree River and provides a unique glimpse into
Santee wildlife and habitats, as well as several sites of historic interest. Recreational
opportunities in the Forest include hiking, hunting, fishing, picnicking, and other special
events. Unique to this Forest is a rifle and pistol range open to the public on weekends and
operated on a fee basis. Horseback riding, mountain biking, off-highway vehicle riding (ATVs
and motorcycles), and special events are also operated on a fee basis.
Harbison State Forest is located within the City of Columbia in Richland County and contains
2,177 acres. Recreational opportunities at Harbison include hiking, Scout camping, picnicking,
and special events. Mountain biking, canoe access to the Broad River, and special events are
operated on a fee basis. However, hunting and fishing are not allowed in Harbison State
Forest. In 1997, the 5,000 square foot Harbison Environmental Education Center was opened,
initiating an emphasis on natural resource and environmental education. The log building is
used for environmental education workshops, teacher training, and other natural resource
related meetings. The facility is complemented by a series of trails and outdoor classrooms that
wind through the pine and hardwood forest surrounding the Center. The Center is available to
education groups and programs free of charge and is available to other groups on a rental basis.
The 12,439-acre Wee Tee State Forest, located in Williamsburg and Georgetown Counties,
was acquired by the SC Forestry Commission in 2004. The Forest contains more than 12 miles
of frontage on the Santee River, as well as a 200-acre lake and numerous ponds and oxbows.
Recreational opportunities in Wee Tee do not require permits and include fishing, canoeing and
kayaking, biking, and hiking. However, the Forest is currently open only from sunrise to
sunset on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Poe Creek State Forest encompasses 1,806 acres and is located in Pickens County adjacent to
the Keowee-Toxaway State Natural Area and near the Jocassee Gorges Area. It was purchased
30
in 1999 and recreation opportunities include hiking, hunting, and fishing. Poe Creek State
Forest is also the home of Long Shoals Wayside Park located along SC Highway 11. This
popular site was developed with help from many organizations and agencies and provides
access to Little Eastatoe Creek. Facilities include parking, picnic tables, restroom facilities and
a short hiking trail.
In addition to the five state forests, the SC Forestry Commission also owns and operates the
700-acre Piedmont Forestry Center, located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in
Oconee County. The Center also features a facility that provides both large and small rooms
for conferences, meetings and training events on a rental basis. Approximately 250 acres of the
property are used as public wildlife management area and it hosts a dove field and an annual
youth fishing rodeo.
Contact:
SC Forestry Commission
5500 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29221
803/896-8800
www.state.sc.us/forest/
d. Heritage Preserves
The South Carolina Heritage Trust Program was created in 1976 to help stem the tide of habitat
loss by protecting critical endangered species sites through acquisition and other means. The
SC Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) currently manages 70 State Heritage Preserves
totaling 81,409 acres throughout the State. These preserves range in size from 1 acre to more
than 18,000 acres and are unique natural or cultural sites set aside for protection of the
resource. Recreational opportunities at most sites include trails and wildlife observation, with
organized nature and historical outings, picnicking, and hunting opportunities provided at many
of the preserves. A full listing of the State Heritage Preserve sites and their unique cultural and
natural resource significance is provided in Appendix B.
Contact:
SC Department of Natural Resources
Heritage Trust Program
PO Box 167
Columbia, SC 29202
803/734-3893
www.dnr.state.sc.us
e. Wildlife Management Areas
The SC Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) leases a total of 820,082 acres of public
and private land in the State for use as designated wildlife management areas (WMA) to
provide game hunting opportunities for the public. It also manages 212,682 acres of SCDNR
owned lands in the WMA program, including some Heritage Preserves. SCDNR’s Wildlife
Management Area Program provides hunting opportunities on approximately 1 million acres of
31
public and privately leased land. Leased land has been reduced in recent years as some
landowners have withdrawn from the program. While the SCDNR mission is focused on
advocacy for and stewardship of South Carolina’s natural resources, properties currently
managed by the Department include more than 70 trails, 125 primitive campsites, and several
picnic areas.
Contact:
SC Department of Natural Resources
Wildlife Management Program
PO Box 167
Columbia, SC 29202
803/734-3886
www.dnr.state.sc.us
f. Trails and Greenways
A variety of trails and greenways have been constructed and designated throughout South
Carolina, with additional trails and greenways in the planning stages. These resources are
managed by a variety of agencies and community-based groups. There are more than 2,793
miles of trails in the State (Table 8). More than one-fourth (29.1%) of these trails are for water
activities such as canoeing, rafting and kayaking. Nearly 541 miles (19.4%) are hiking trails
and 423.9 miles (15.2%) are for hiking and mountain biking. Equestrian trails total 413.3 miles
and comprise 14.8% of the State’s trails.
Table 8. South Carolina Trail Mileage by Type of Use
Trail Type
Fitness
Hiking
Hiking/Mountain Biking
Equestrian
Interpretive*
Motorcycle/Off Highway Vehicles
Mountain Biking
Multi-use**
Water (canoeing, rafting, kayaking)
Total Miles
Miles
18.7
540.8
423.9
413.3
98.6
214.6
105.9
165.7
812.1
2,793.6
Percentage of
Total Miles
0.7%
19.4%
15.2%
14.8%
3.5%
7.7%
3.8%
5.9%
29.1%
Source: SCPRT, September 2007.
* Interpretive trails include informational stops linked to views, flora/fauna, features, etc.
** Multi-use includes several modes, usually paved and handicapped accessible.
Some of the State’s more popular trails and greenways are listed in Table 9. These trails
accommodate a variety of recreational activities including hiking, fitness walking, mountain
biking, ATVs and motorcycles, canoeing and kayaking, and equestrian use. Of particular note
is the Palmetto Trail, which when completed will link numerous existing public lands and
32
existing trail segments to form a "mountains-to-the-sea" trail. Trail opportunities in South
Carolina are identified by multiple information sources, including:
2002 South Carolina Trails Plan, www.sctrails.net/Trails/TRAILSPROGRAM/
About%20Trails%20Program/StateTrailsPlanBook.pdf, South Carolina Department
of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, 2002.
SC Trails website, www.SCTrails.net, South Carolina Department of Parks,
Recreation and Tourism, 2002.
Palmetto Conservation Foundation website, www.palmettoconservation.org, Palmetto
Conservation Foundation, 2002.
Exploring South Carolina: Wild and Natural Places, Gene Able, Palmetto Byways
Press, 1995.
Favorite Family Hikes, Palmetto Conservation Foundation, 2004.
Guide to the Foothills Trail, Third Edition, Foothills Trail Conference, 1998.
Hiking South Carolina, John Clark and John Dantzler, Falcon Publishing, 1998.
Hiking South Carolina Trails, Allen DeHart, The Globe Pequot Press, 1994.
Mountain Biking South Carolina, Nicole Blouin, Falcon Publishing, 1998.
Mountain Bridge Trails, Naturaland Trust, 1994.
Paddling South Carolina: A Guide to Palmetto State River Trails, Third Printing,
1990, Gene Able & Jack Horan, Sandlapper Publishing Co. Inc.
Palmetto Journal: Walks in the Natural Areas of South Carolina, Phillip Manning,
John F. Blair, Publisher, 1995.
South Carolina – A Guide to Backcountry Travel & Adventure, Morrison Giffen, Out
There Press, 1997.
South Carolina Nature Viewing Guide, Patricia Jerman for SC Dept. of Natural
Resources, 1998.
South Carolina Trails, Third Edition, Allen De Hart, Globe Pequot Press, 1994.
The Mountain Biker's Guide to the Southeast, Lori Finley, Menasha Ridge Press and
Falcon Press, 1994.
The Waterfalls of South Carolina, 3rd Edition, Benjamin Brooks and Tim Cook,
Palmetto Conservation Foundation, 2007.
In addition to State efforts, a number of regional and local trail, bicycle and pedestrian plans
have completed or are in development across the State in both rural and urban communities that
will encourage outdoor recreational activities, including:
Anne Springs Close Greenway Master Plan (Fort Mill)
Augusta Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (Aiken County in South Carolina and
Columbia and Richmond Counties in Georgia)
33
Beaufort County Trails and Blueway Master Plan
Berkeley/Charleston/Dorchester Trail Plan
Carolina Thread Trails (Cherokee, Chester, Lancaster and York counties in South
Carolina and eleven counties in North Carolina)
Charleston Area Transportation Study (CHATS) Bicycle Master Plan
City of Greenville Trails Master Plan
Colleton County Trail Plan
Columbia Area Transportation Study (COATS) Bicycle and Pedestrian Pathways Plan
(Lexington and Richland Counties)
East Coast Greenway (linking Maine to Florida and passing through Horry,
Georgetown, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Beaufort, and Jasper counties)
Hilton Head Open Space and Trails Master Plan
Mecca Trails Plan (McCormick, Edgefield, Abbeville, and Greenwood Counties in
South Carolina and Lincoln County in Georgia)
Pee-Dee Trail Plan (Florence, Darlington, Dillon, Marlboro, Chesterfield and Marion
Counties)
Richland County Greenway Plan
Tyger River Greenway Plan (Spartanburg County)
Upstate Trail Plan (Pickens, Oconee, and Greenville Counties)
York County Master Greenway Plan
The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) approved funding in 2007 for
twelve public K-12 schools to develop comprehensive bicycle and pedestrian programs as part
of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program. The federally-funded program is part of the
2005 SAFETY-LU Federal Transportation Law and is managed and administered by the
SCDOT. The SRTS program is aimed at encouraging children to walk or bike to school and
makes funding available for a wide variety of programs and projects – from building safer
street crossings to establishing programs that encourage children and their parents to walk and
bicycle safely to school. South Carolina passed the 2004 SC Safe Routes to School Act to
ensure that municipal and county governments work with school districts to identify barriers
and hazards for children walking or biking to school and to develop a plan for the funding of
improvements designed to reduce the identified concerns.
34
Table 9. Popular South Carolina Public Trails
Trail Name*
Avery Lake Loop
Bull Island NRT
Chattooga
Edisto Nature NRT
Foothills Trail NRT
Granby Garden/Mill Village
Jones Gap NRT
Issaqueena Falls
Kings Mountain NRT
Lake Juniper Boardwalk
Raven Cliff Falls
Historic Brattonsville
Riverbanks Zoo
Poinsett State Park
Swamp Fox NRT
Table Rock NRT
Yellow Branch Falls
Dillon Park/Cypress
Riverfront Park/Cayce-West
Columbia
Sesquicentennial
Springfield Loop
Palmetto Trail
Miles
2.7
2.0
15.5
1.5
44.0
2.3
5.3
0.2
16.0
0.5
2.0
5.3
0.5
2.5
42.0
3.4
1.3
6.01
5.0
Use
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Fitness
Hiking/Mt. Biking
County
York
Charleston
Oconee
Colleton
Oconee
Richland
Greenville
Oconee
York
Chesterfield
Greenville
York
Lexington
Sumter
Charleston
Pickens
Oconee
Sumter
Lexington
11.5
2.3
220
Richland
York
Various
Harbison Forest
Pinckney Island
West Ashley Greenway
Cheraw State Rec. Area
Croft State Rec. Area
Long Cane Horse
Lynches Woods
Manchester State Forest
Sand Hills State Forest
Forks Area Trail System
Sand Hills State Forest
Stevens Creek
Turkey Creek
Manchester State Forest
Lynches Woods
Island Pathway
N. Augusta Greenway
Waccamaw Neck Bikeway
18.0
14.0
10.5
20.3
21.4
23.0
6.1
20.0
92.0
25.0
9.0
5.5
12.5
17.6
7.5
50.0
7.5
1.3
Hiking/Mt. Biking
Hiking/Mt. Biking
Hiking/Mt. Biking/
Equestrian
Hiking/Mt. Biking
Hiking/Mt. Biking
Hiking/Mt. Biking
Equestrian
Equestrian
Equestrian
Equestrian
Equestrian
Equestrian
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking
Multiuse
Multiuse
Multiuse
Manager
Anne Springs Close Greenway
US Fish and Wildlife Service
USDA Forest Service
Westvaco Forest Resources Division
USDA Forest Service
Columbia Parks & Rec/River Alliance
SC State Park Service
Pendleton District Rec. & Tourism
SC State Park Service
SC State Park Service
Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area
Historic Brattonsville
Riverbanks Zoo
SC State Park Service
USDA Forest Service
SC State Park Service
USDA Forest Service
Sumter County Rec Department
Cayce & West Columbia/River
Alliance
SC State Park Service
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Palmetto Conservation Foundation
Richland
Beaufort
Charleston
Chesterfield
Spartanburg
Abbeville
Newberry
Sumter
Chesterfield
Edgefield
Chesterfield
McCormick
McCormick
Sumter
Newberry
Beaufort
Aiken
Georgetown
SC Forestry Commission
US Fish and Wildlife Service
Charleston County Recreation
SC State Park Service
SC State Park Service
USDA Forest Service
Newberry Soil/Water Commission
SC Forestry Commission
SC Forestry Commission
USDA Forest Service
SC Forestry Commission
USDA Forest Service
USDA Forest Service
SC Forestry Commission
Newberry Soil/Water Commission
Town of Hilton Head
N. Augusta Parks & Recreation
Georgetown County
35
Table 9. Popular South Carolina Public Trails, Continued
Trail Name*
Miles
Use
County
Manager
TNT Motorsport Park
14.0 MC/ATV
Chester
TNT Motorsport Park
Manchester State Forest
19.1 MC/ATV
Sumter
SC Forestry Commission
Wambaw Cycle
40.0 MC
Berkeley
USDA Forest Service
Edisto River Canoe
50.3 Water
Colleton
Edisto Canoe/Kayak Commission
Chattooga River
29.0 Water
Oconee
Forest Service
Little Pee Dee River
38.5 Water
Dillon, Horry,
SC Dept. of Natural Resources
Heritage Preserves
Marion
Waccamaw River Heritage
25.0 Water
Horry
SC Dept. of Natural Resources
Preserve
Blue Heron
0.6
Interpretive
Jasper
Jasper Conservation District
Boardwalk Loop
2.3
Interpretive
Richland
Congaree Swamp National Monument
Canal Walk
2.8
Interpretive
Berkeley
Old Santee Canal Park
Francis Biedler Boardwalk
1.7
Interpretive
Dorchester
US Forest Service
Marsh Boardwalk NRT
0.4
Interpretive
Beaufort
SC State Park Service
Sewee Visitor Center
1.5
Interpretive
Charleston
US Forest Service
* NRT = National Recreational Trail; MC = Motorcycle; ATV = All Terrain Vehicle
Source: SCPRT, www.SCTrails.net
g. Scenic Highways
The South Carolina Scenic Highways Committee, in partnership with the SC Department of
Transportation, has designated 20 routes on more than 415 miles of road throughout the State
as Scenic Highways (Table 10). South Carolina has three nationally designated Scenic
Highways – the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway in the Upstate, the Savannah
River National Scenic Highway in the western portion of the State and the Ashley River
National Scenic Highway in Charleston.
The USDA Forest Service also designated 14.5 miles of SC Highway 107 in Oconee County as
the Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway. The Byway winds through the Sumter National Forest
along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, beginning at the North Carolina border and
ending at the junction of SC 28 and SC 107.
Designated as a National Historic Trail by the National Park Service in 1980, the
Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail stretches for a approximately 220 miles from
Virginia, through Tennessee and North Carolina, to the Kings Mountain National Military Park
in South Carolina. The Trail follows the Revolutionary War route of Patriot militia from
Virginia, eastern Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia to the battle of Kings
Mountain in South Carolina. Approximately 40 miles of the Trail is within South Carolina,
entering the State near Chesnee and roughly following SC Highway 11 through Cowpens
National Battlefield, then turning east along several roads to its terminus at the Kings Mountain
National Military Park.
36
There are continued concerns about maintaining the scenic nature of many of these designated
routes, given that many of the highway segments are within jurisdictions with limited land use
controls to protect viewsheds.
Contacts:
SC Department of Transportation
955 Park Street
PO Box 191
Columbia, SC 29202
803/737-1450
www.dot.state.sc.us
SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
1205 Pendleton Street
Columbia, SC 29201
803/734-0233
www.discoversouthcarolina.com
Table 10. South Carolina Scenic Highways
Highway Name
Andrew Pickens Scenic
Parkway
Ashley River Road Scenic
Highway**
Mileage
58.13
Bohicket Road Scenic
Highway
Cherokee Foothills Scenic
Highway**
10.34
10.00
117.60
Cowpens Battlefield Scenic
Highway
8.73
Fort Johnson Road Scenic
Highway
Highway 174 Scenic
Highway
Hilton Head Scenic
Highway
James Edwin McTeer
Bridge and The Causeways
Scenic Highway
Long Point Road Scenic
Highway
Mathis Ferry Road Scenic
Highway
Old Sheldon Church Road
Scenic Highway
Riverland Drive Scenic
Highway
4.59
16.79
7.85
2.85
2.07
2.86
7.20
4.85
Description
SC 11 through Oconee and Pickens Counties. This route
overlaps the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway.
Ashley River Road (SC-61) in Charleston County from
Church Creek Bridge on SC 61 for 10 miles to the entrances
of Old Dorchester State Park.
Secondary State Road 20 (Bohicket Road) in Charleston
County from SC 700 south to Kiawah Island.
SC 11 from the Town of Gaffney in Cherokee County to I-85
in Oconee County. This route overlaps the Andrew Pickens
Scenic Parkway.
Portion of SC 110 from the Town of Cowpens in Spartanburg
County to the Cowpens National Battlefield in Cherokee
County.
Ft. Johnson Road in Charleston County from SC 171 to S2191.
SC Highway 174 in Charleston County from south of the
Dawhoo Bridge to the end of SC 174.
I-95/US 278 connector route from I-95 and S-88 in Jasper
County and SC 278 in Beaufort County to SC 170.
SC 802 in Beaufort County from SC 281 in Port Royal to US
21.
Year
1971
Long Point Road in Charleston County from US 17 to
Whipple Road.
Mathis Ferry Road in Charleston County from Whipple Road
to 7th Street in the Town of Mouth Pleasant.
Old Sheldon Church Road (S-21) from US 17/21 to the
intersection of S-3 (Town of Yemassee).
Riverland Drive in Charleston County from S-624 (Wappo
Hall Road to S-94.
1988
37
1998
1974
1971
1980
1988
1988
1988
1984
1988
2005
1988
Table 10. South Carolina Scenic Highways, Continued
Highway Name
Savannah River Scenic
Highway**
Mileage
100.02
S-13
2.15
S-163
SC 170
1.69
8.36
SC 46
8.97
US 21
18.54
US 278
22.13
Description
Beginning at the intersection of SC 11 and SC 24 in Oconee
County to the Georgia State Line in McCormick County.
Follows along SC 11, 24, SC 187, SC 181, S-4-105, SC 81,
and SC 28.
S-13 in Beaufort County from S-461 to the Bluffton City
Limits.
S-163 in Beaufort County from US 278 to S-13.
SC 170 in Beaufort County from US 278 to the Edward
Burton Rodgers Bridge.
SC 46 in Beaufort County from US 278 to the Jasper County
Line.
US 21 in Beaufort County from the south side of Lady’s
Island Bridge to Hunting Island State Park.
US 278 in Beaufort County from SC 170 to S-80 on Hilton
Head Island.
Year
1986
1978
1978
1978
1978
1979
1978
TOTAL
415.72
Source: SC Department of Transportation, South Carolina Scenic Byways, 2006 Report, January 2007.
** Denotes that the Scenic Highway has been designated a National Scenic Highway
h. National Forests
There are 630,000 acres in two national forests in South Carolina. The Francis Marion
National Forest and the Sumter National Forest offer a wide range of recreational opportunities
– from world class whitewater rafting, kayaking and canoeing on the Chattooga National Wild
and Scenic River to a myriad of Lowcountry experiences on blackwater rivers and swamps and
in maritime forests and marshes. Recreational opportunities are diverse and include hunting
(allowed on more than 600,000 of the 630,000 acres), shooting sports, white water boating, sea
kayaking, freshwater and saltwater fishing, shrimping, hiking, backpacking, boat ramps,
primitive camping, tent/RV camping, ATV and motorcycle riding, mountain biking, horseback
riding, interpretative trails and environmental education. More than 1 million visitors use these
Forests each year. The management plan for the Sumter National Forest has recently been
updated and the Francis Marion National Forest management plan is under revision.
The Sumter National Forest consists of more than 360,000 acres in three major blocks located
in: 1) Union, Laurens, Newberry, Chester, and Fairfield Counties; 2) Abbeville, McCormick,
Greenwood, Saluda and Edgefield Counties; and 3) Oconee County. Although rural in nature,
all of these forest areas receive moderate to heavy use from nearby urban areas, particularly the
Andrew Pickens District in Oconee County in the mountains of western South Carolina, home
to the nationally renowned Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River. Much of the forest is
designated as a wildlife management area, allowing hunting under SC Department of Natural
Resources regulations. The Sumter National Forest has several developed recreational sites
including campgrounds, primitive camps, picnic areas, boating sites, rifle ranges, and
swimming areas. The Forest also maintains 420 miles of hiking, backpacking, equestrian,
ATV/motorcycle, nature, and water trails (for canoeing, kayaking and rafting). Of the 420 total
miles of trail, 50 miles are designated for motorcycle and ATV use. In 1974, 57 miles of the
Chattooga River were designated by Congress as a National Wild and Scenic River. The
38
designation encompasses 15,000 acres of national forest within a quarter mile corridor on both
sides of the River. It also overlaps with the 9,000-acre Ellicott Rock Wilderness area
established by Congress in 1975. The Chauga River, as well as Turkey and Stevens Creeks,
have also been determined eligible for National Wild and Scenic River designation.
The Francis Marion National Forest consists of approximately 250,000 acres in Charleston
and Berkeley Counties, located between the Charleston metropolitan area and the Grand Strand
tourism area to the north. The Forest offers a variety of developed and dispersed recreational
opportunities. The Buck Hall Recreation Area was rebuilt following Hurricane Hugo and
offers electrical hookups, day use, boat launch facilities, and trailhead access to the Palmetto
Trail. Visitation is limited by the weather and mosquitoes – making fall, winter, and spring the
more popular seasons. The Sewee Visitor and Environment and Education Center is located on
US Highway 17 and operated in cooperation with the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.
Francis Marion National Forest has approximately 165 miles of trails. Of these, 40 miles are
designated for motorcycle and ATV use. The remaining trail miles are for non-motorized uses
such as hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking and canoeing/kayaking.
Mountain bikes are allowed on hiking trails, off-road vehicle trails, horse trails, and roads.
There are no trails designated for four-wheel drive vehicles. The Forest includes two shooting
ranges, several fishing areas, and a number of boat ramps. Most of the Francis Marion
National Forest is included in the Wildlife Management Area program for hunting. Four areas
have been identified as federally designated wilderness – Wambaw Swamp, Little Wambaw
Swamp, Hell Hole Bay, and Wambaw Creek.
Contact:
USDA Forest Service
4931 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29212-3530
803/561-4000
www.fs.fed.us/r8/fms
i. National Parks
South Carolina is home to several nationally-significant park, monument, military, battlefield
and historic sites. Congaree National Park is the largest of these sites at more than 22,000
acres. Other national park sites preserve and/or interpret sites from the Revolutionary and Civil
Wars. Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Monuments in Charleston County are two of the
most visited National Park Service properties in the State. Other historic sites include Kings
Mountain National Military Park in York and Cherokee Counties, Cowpens National
Battlefield in Cherokee County, Charles Pinckney National Historic Site (home site of a signer
of the Declaration of Independence) in Charleston County, and Ninety Six National Historic
Site in Greenwood County. These national park sites offer opportunities to explore the history
of the nation through historic buildings, documentaries, displays, trails, and tours.
The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail extends 45 of its 330 total miles into South
Carolina. Located in Cherokee and Spartanburg Counties, the Trail traces and commemorates
the route of the American militia to the battle of Kings Mountain and their defeat of the British
Army in 1780. The entire 330-mile trail passes through portions of Virginia, Tennessee, North
39
Carolina and South Carolina. The South Carolina portion includes the final 45 miles on the
route leading to the battlefield. Parts of the historic trail can be traversed at Cowpens National
Battlefield and Kings Mountain National Military Park.
Located in Richland County, Congaree National Park preserves the largest tract of old-growth
bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the United States. The Park was the 57th national
park designated nationwide and is the only national park in South Carolina. The 22,200-acre
Park offers an opportunity to observe record-size trees (a 16-story Loblolly Pine is the tallest in
the nation) and outstanding biological diversity (700 different species of plants) via 34.3 miles
of hiking trails, a 2.4 mile boardwalk loop trail, and a wilderness canoe trail. The Park has
areas for group camping and allows primitive camping. Fishing is allowed in most areas of the
Park. The Congaree National Park received its national park designation in 2003 (it was
formerly designated as a national monument and wilderness area) and has been named a
National Natural Landmark, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Globally Important Bird
Area.
Contacts:
Congaree National Park
100 National Park Road
Hopkins, SC 29061-9118
803/776-4396
www.nps.gov/cosw
Cowpens National Battlefield
4001 Chesnee Highway
Gaffney, SC 29341
864/461-2828
www.nps.gov/cowp
Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Moultrie National Monument
1214 Middle Street
Sullivans Island, SC 29482
843/883-3123
www.nps.gov/fosu
Kings Mountain National Military
Park
2625 Park Road
Blacksburg, SC 29702
864/936-7921
www.nps.gov/kimo
Ninety Six National Historic Site
1103 Highway 248
Ninety Six, SC 29666
864/543-4068
www.nps.gov/nisi
Charles Pinckney National Historic
Site
1214 Middle Street
Sullivans Island, SC 29482
843/881-5516
www.nps.gov/chpi
Overmountain Victory National Historic
Trail
2635 Park Road
Blacksburg, SC 29072
864/936-3477
www.nps.gov/ovvi
j. National Wildlife Refuges
There are eight national wildlife refuges in South Carolina. Established in 1997, the
Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge is the State’s newest refuge and includes portions of the
40
Great Pee Dee, Little Pee Dee, and Waccamaw Rivers in Horry, Marion and Georgetown
Counties. The Waccamaw Refuge currently consists of 9,000 acres, but has been approved for
more than 55,000 acres. The refuge provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing/kayaking,
hiking, and limited hunting, as well as wildlife observation and environmental education.
The Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge was acquired as part of the
overall conservation project for the lower basin of the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Rivers.
The Refuge is part of the ACE Basin Project, a joint venture in which the US Fish and Wildlife
Service, the SC Department of Natural Resource, the Nature Conservancy, and Ducks
Unlimited are working with private landowners to protect and enhance the natural resources of
the ACE Basin. The refuge includes 11,815 acres located in Charleston and Colleton Counties.
It has the potential to encompass 18,000 acres through the completion of the voluntary sale of
additional private holdings. The ACE Basin Refuge consists of two separate units – the
Combahee Unit located near Yemassee (7,200 acres) and the Edisto Unit on the old Grove
Plantation near Adams Run (4,564 acres). The Grove Plantation House, built in 1828, is one of
only three antebellum mansions in the ACE Basin area to survive the Civil War. Recreational
activities include hiking on 9 miles of trails/access roads, fishing in the tidal creeks and
freshwater streams, a limited hunting program for waterfowl and deer, wildlife observation,
photography, and nature study.
Other national wildlife refuges include the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge in Jasper
County, consisting of 28,168 acres of freshwater marshes, tidal rivers, creeks, and bottomland
hardwoods and offering a nature drive, 40 miles of earthen dikes open to walking and
bicycling, boating/canoeing/kayaking in navigable waterways, and wildlife observation
opportunities. The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge in Beaufort County covers
4,053 acres and offers fishing by boat, limited deer hunting, hiking on 14 miles of trails (8
trails), bicycling, and nature observation. The Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge is
located in Charleston County, spanning 66,267 acres (including 20 miles of the Atlantic coast)
and providing fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation opportunities in a wide range of
environments including barrier islands, salt marshes, coastal waterways, fresh and brackish
water impoundments, and maritime forest. The 15,095-acre Santee National Wildlife Refuge
in Clarendon County stretches for 18 miles along the northern shore of Lake Marion and hosts
a visitors center, 4 miles of trails, fishing and a wildlife observation tower. The Carolina Sand
Hills National Wildlife Refuge in Chesterfield County consists of 45,348 acres equipped with
wildlife observation towers, photography blinds, interpretive displays, more than 4 miles of
hiking trails, and picnicking facilities. The 100-acre Tybee National Wildlife Refuge in Jasper
County is an important resting and feeding area for migratory birds and is therefore closed to
public use. However, wildlife observation and photography are allowed by boat.
Contacts:
Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National
Wildlife Refuge
PO Box 848
Hollywood, SC 29449
843/889-3804
www.fws.gov/acebasin
41
Cape Romain National Wildlife
Refuge
5801 Highway 17 North
Awendaw, SC 29429
843/928-3264
www.fws.gov/caperomain
Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge
23734 Highway 1
McBee, SC 29101
843/335-8401 912-832-4608
www.fws.gov/carolinasandhills
Santee National Wildlife Refuge
2125 Fort Watson Road
Summerton, SC 29148
803/478-2217
www.fws.gov/santee
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
1000 Business Center Drive, Suite 10
Savannah, Georgia 31405
912/832-4608
www.fws.gov/pinckneyisland
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
1000 Business Center Drive, Suite 10
Savannah, Georgia 31405
912/652-4415
www.fws.gov/savannah
Tybee National Wildlife Refuge
1000 Business Center Drive, Suite 10
Savannah, Georgia 31405
912/652-4415
www.fws.gov/tybee
Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge
1601 N. Fraser Street
Georgetown, SC 29440
843/527-8069
www.fws.gov/waccamaw
k. Army Corps of Engineers Facilities
The US Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District, manages 325,000 acres of land and water
along the Savannah River. The three lake projects – Hartwell Dam and Lake (55,950 acres of
water and 23,566 acres of land), Richard B. Russell Dam and Lake (26,653 acres of water and
27,019 acres of land), and J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake (70,000 acres of water and
80,701 acres of land) – are among the largest Corps projects in the country. On Hartwell and J.
Strom Thurmond Lakes, the Corps operates and maintains more than 90 recreation areas and
leases many additional recreation areas to State and local agencies as well as private entities for
operation and maintenance. The Corps operates only 2 small recreation facilities on Richard B.
Russell Lake because the project was constructed on a cost-share basis with the States of South
Carolina and Georgia. Visitors to all three Lakes enjoy a wide range of recreational activities
including water sports, hunting, hiking, picnicking, camping, boat ramps and fishing (Table
11). However, each lake provides a unique setting for these activities. Lake Hartwell is
located near a major population center, with more than 10 million visitors annually (the 3rd
most visited Corps project in the country), and is very suburban in nature. Lake Russell offers
a more rural, natural setting with protected shorelines and draws more than a million visitors
annually. Lake Thurmond, with its large lake and land base, offers a combination of suburban
and rural environments and provides unique features such as the Dorn Sport Fishing and
Boating facility – the largest boat-launching facility in the southeast. More than 6.3 million
persons visit Lake Thurmond each year.
42
Table 11. Recreational Facilities at Thurmond, Hartwell and Russell Lakes
Facilities
Corps-operated Recreation Areas
State-operated Recreation Areas
Locally-operated Recreation Areas
Marina Leases
Contact:
Thurmond
37
7
6
5
Hartwell
54
4
23
5
Russell
2
21
1
1
US Army Corps of Engineers
Savannah District
PO Box 889
Savannah, Georgia 31402-0889
912/652-5279
www.sas.usace.army.mil/lakes
l. Local Facilities
Local governments in South Carolina also maintain significant park areas and facilities.
According to the most recent inventory available, SCPRT’s 1998 Study of Local Government
Parks and Recreation Departments in South Carolina, these local facilities include more than
1,368 athletic fields; 187 community centers; 55 swimming pools; 591 playgrounds; 780 tennis
courts; 456 outdoor and 124 indoor basketball courts; 396 picnic shelters; 118 tracks for
walking, jogging, and running; 368 trails for walking, biking, hiking, horseback riding, and
ATVs; and 41 water trails for canoeing and kayaking. Schools are utilized by the majority of
the local recreation departments to supplement community facilities. Funding for local
government facilities, programs, and operations has been increasingly constrained by limits on
taxing authority, fragmented jurisdictions, cumbersome annexation procedures, decreasing
grant programs, and significant population growth.
Additional information on local recreational opportunities in each community and referral
contacts can be accessed through the SC Recreation and Parks Association.
Contact:
SC Parks and Recreation Association
PO Box 1046
Lexington, SC 29071
803/808-7753
www.scrpa.org
m. Other Facilities
Museums, art exhibits, and other cultural facilities are provided by numerous organizations
including the SC Arts Commission, the SC Department of Archives and History, Patriots Point
Development Authority, the SC Museum Commission, the SC State Library, and various local
governmental, institutional, non-profit, and private organizations.
43
Contacts:
SC Arts Commission
1800 Gervais Street
Columbia, SC 29201
803/734-8696
www.state.sc.us/arts
SC Archives and History
8301 Parklane Road
Columbia, SC 29223
803/896-6168
www.state.sc.us/scdah
SC State Library
PO Box 11469
Columbia, SC 29211
803/734-8666
www.state.sc.us/scsl
SC State Museum
PO Box 100107
Columbia, SC 29202-3107
803/898-4921
www.museum.state.sc.us
Patriots Point Development Authority
40 Patriots Point Road
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464-4377
843/884-2727
www.patriotspoint.org
n. Grant Resources
Traditional Federal funding sources for outdoor recreation have continued to decline in recent
years. However, the State offers several grant opportunities to support recreation initiatives,
most of which are administered through SCPRT. Additional opportunities are available
through the SC Department of Archives and History and the SC Department of Transportation.
Additional public and private grant sources that fund recreation or related projects are listed in
Appendix C.
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) – LWCF is a federally-funded grant program
administered by SCPRT for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation areas.
LWCF funds are available only for local or state agencies. Grants provided under the
program require a 50% match and are reimbursable. The minimum grant request is $25,000
and the maximum amount is $250,000. However, if the proposed project is determined to
have regional or statewide significance it may be eligible for funding up to $500,000.
Because Federal funding for the LWCF program fluctuates annually, appropriations are not
stable and cannot be estimated with any certainty.
Contact: SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Recreation, Planning and Engineering Office
1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 246
Columbia, SC 29201
803/734-0173
www.scprt.com/our-partners/grants/lwcf.aspx
Recreation Land Trust Fund (RELT) – Administered through SCPRT, RELT funds are
available from the State to local governmental entities for the acquisition of land for public
44
recreation purposes. The maximum amount that can be applied for under the RELT
program is $25,000. However, if the project is determined to have regional or statewide
significance, it may be eligible for funding up to $100,000. SCPRT anticipates that
$250,000 will be available for this program in the upcoming 28008-2009 program year.
Contact: SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Recreation, Planning and Engineering Office
1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 246
Columbia, SC 29201
803/734-0173
www.scprt.com/our-partners/grants/relt.aspx
Recreational Trails Program (RTP) – RTP is a federally-funded grant program available to
state, Federal and local government agencies or qualified private organizations for the
purpose of building or improving trails. In South Carolina, SCPRT administers RTP as a
reimbursable grant program that requires a 20% match for trail projects across the State.
The minimum grant amount available under the program is $10,000, with a maximum of
$100,000. Motorized projects are eligible for the maximum amount of motorized funding
available. The RTP program budget is established and updated under the Federal
Transportation Bill every six years. Future funding is expected to remain at the current
annual level of approximately $1 million.
Contact: SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Recreation, Planning and Engineering Office
1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 246
Columbia, SC 29201
803/734-0173
www.scprt.com/our-partners/grants/trails.aspx and www.SCTrails.net
Parks and Recreation Development Fund (PARD) – PARD is a state-funded, noncompetitive reimbursable grant program for eligible local governments or special purpose
districts which provide recreational opportunities within each county. The actual grant
awards are made on a project-by-project basis. The funds are used for permanent indoor or
outdoor improvements to public parks and recreation facilities. These projects must consist
of new development, not maintenance. Each applicant must have the endorsement of its
county legislative delegation members with a combined weight factor of more than 50%.
Eligible project costs will be reimbursed at a rate of 80% (80/20 match). New allocations
are received in July of every year, with available funds varying from year to year.
Contact: SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Recreation, Planning and Engineering Office
1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 246
Columbia, SC 29201
803/734-0173
www.scprt.com/our-partners/grants/pard.aspx
45
Tourism Partnership Fund (TPF) – The purpose of the TPF program is to attract visitors and
encourage visitor spending that will advance the economic benefits of tourism throughout
South Carolina and position the State as a premiere travel destination. It provides a
competitive grant process in which funds are awarded to local governmental entities,
destination marketing organizations, public sector organizations, and other 501(c) nonprofit groups. Funding categories include: Established Markets, Developing Markets,
Sports Markets, Attractions, Festival or Events and Sponsorship Grants and are awarded
once during the fiscal year on a reimbursement, cash-match basis.
Contact: SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Tourism Marketing Partnership Fund
1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 110
Columbia, SC 29201
803/734-0132
www.tpfgrant.com
Heritage Corridor Development Grants – The SC National Heritage Corridor Development
Grant Program assists communities and non-profit organizations located within the 14county SC National Heritage Corridor in developing, implementing, and maintaining a
successful heritage tourism attraction or program that benefits residents and attracts visitors
to the area. These 50/50 matching grants are focused on assisting eligible communities to
develop their historical, cultural and natural assets so they may contribute to the sustainable
economic revitalization of the Heritage Corridor region. Grant projects must fall into one
of the three following categories: Planning, Product Development and Marketing, and
Visitor Services. Projects that directly impact the visitor experience and that demonstrate a
high degree of sustainability are given greater consideration.
Contact: SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
The South Carolina Heritage Corridor
1205 Pendleton Street
Columbia, SC 29201
803/338-4841
www.scprt.com/our-partners/grants/heritagegrant.aspx and
http://sc-heritagecorridor.org/html/grantprogram.htm
Historic Preservation Grant Program – The South Carolina Department of Archives and
History administers the State’s Historic Preservation Grant Program through funding
provided by the US Department of Interior’s National Park Service. The program began in
1987 and has awarded more than $1.2 million for stabilization and weatherization projects
to date. Grant awards range from $2,500 to $25,000, with a maximum award of $30,000.
Approximately $100,000 is available yearly for grants, with 10% allocated annually per
Federal regulation to projects for Certified Local Governments (CLGs) in the form of
matching grants. There are currently 25 CLGs in the State including the Cities of Aiken,
Anderson, Beaufort, Bennettsville, Charleston, Chester, Columbia, Conway, Darlington,
Dillon, Georgetown, Greenville, Laurens, Rock Hill, Spartanburg, Sumter and York; the
Towns of Bluffton, Cheraw, Chesterfield, Fort Mill, Lexington, McClellanville, and Mount
Pleasant; and Horry County. Grant applications may be made under two project categories:
46
Survey and Planning Projects – Any governmental entity, non-profit organization,
or institution may apply for funding under this category, including churches and
other religious organizations. Funding under this program can be used for a variety
of historic preservation projects including identifying, recording and recognizing
historic properties; planning for historic districts and multiple historic properties;
strengthening local government historic preservation programs; and planning for
individual historic properties.
Stabilization Projects – Grants for stabilization projects may only be used in cities
and towns that are CLGs, and may be applied for by the CLG, or any non-profit
organization or institution within the incorporated limits of a CLG, as long as the
grant application includes the signature of the Chief Elected Official of the CLG.
CLG grant funds may be used to help pay for stabilization repairs to National
Register buildings, excluding churches and church-owned property.
Contact: SC Department of Archives and History
8301 Parklane Road
Columbia, SC 29223-4905
803/896-6172
www.state.sc.us/scdah/fedbro.htm
Transportation Enhancement Program Grants – Since 1992, the SCDOT has allocated a
portion of Federal funds for the Transportation Enhancement Program. The program is
designed to allow local governments the opportunity to construct a range of non-traditional
transportation related facilities to accommodate activities such as bicycle and pedestrian
facilities, streetscaping, scenic and landscaping programs, and historic preservation. Funds
are provided through the Federal Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation
Equity Act (SAFETEA-LU). Awards are made via two processes. The State’s ten
Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO’s) access funds through the regional policy
committee planning and prioritization process, while projects outside MPO areas are
approved separately through a competitive selection process. Grants are awarded on an
80/20 matching basis for projects, with eligible matching resources including either cash or
in-kind.
Contact: SC Department of Transportation
Office of Beautification Program Outreach
955 Park Street, Room 120B
Columbia, SC 29201-3959
803/737-1953
www.scdot.org/community/tep_app.shtml
2. PRIVATE FACILITIES
Private recreation facilities for public use are available in many forms – as baseball/softball
fields provided by companies or civic groups; swimming, fishing and picnic areas provided by
power companies; and campgrounds, marinas, golf courses, historic sites, and state-leased
hunting lands. Many of these facilities charge user fees. There are also other private recreation
47
resources which are not available to the general public but are open only to members and
guests. All of these facilities charge user fees. These include facilities such as golf courses,
hunt clubs, marinas, tennis clubs, campgrounds, motel swimming pools, and various indoor
facilities. Although private sector investment in recreation over the next five years is difficult
to project, it is anticipated that both types of private recreation resources will continue to
provide significant shares of the total amount of recreation access in South Carolina. SCPRT
and other agencies will continue to work with private groups, when possible, to promote
privately-owned or privately-maintained recreation resources which are open to the general
public.
Of particular note are the private, non-profit land trusts that are being created throughout the
State in response to growing development pressures. These organizations have become very
active in the protection of natural and cultural resources through the permanent protection of
properties from development. This is usually achieved by obtaining identified lands through
donation or purchase, or by receiving conservation easements which restrict future
development of the property. Conservation easements, a common protection tool, allow the
land to remain in the hands of the original landowner, who becomes eligible for tax incentives.
The land trust assumes responsibility for management of the resource. Often, conservation
easements do not provide for public recreation, as the easements are individual agreements
between the land trust and the private landowner. However, some easement agreements do
provide for recreation (such as trails or greenways) and even nature-based tourism. Several
land trusts are also active in identifying land for future conservation purchase and holding the
land under option while public agencies can identify funding sources to support the acquisition.
According to the 2005 National Land Trust Census Report by the Land Trust Alliance, more
than 176,460 acres of land were protected by private local and state land trusts in South
Carolina during 2005, resulting in a ranking of 17th nationwide in terms of protected acreage.
The State ranked 29th nationally and 9th out of the 10 Southeastern states (ahead of only
Florida) in terms of increase in land area protected, with an increase of 81% from 2000 to 2005.
By comparison, the increase in the land area protected during the 5-year period throughout the
Southeast region was 140% compared to the percentage increase protected nationwide at only
96%. The Southeast ranked only behind the Southwest region which increased by 148%.
Table 12 provides a listing of member organizations in the South Carolina Land Trust Network.
While most are land trusts, some provide resources and support to land trust organizations in
the State.
Table 12. South Carolina Land Trust Network
Land Trusts
Aiken County Open Land Trust
Audubon Society of SC
Beaufort County Open Land Trust
Contact Information
Dr. Harry Shealy, President
704 S. Boundary Ave. SE, Aiken, SC 29801
803/641-3404
Norm Burnswig, Executive Director
336 Sandbury Rd., Harleyville, SC 29448
843/462-2713
Cindy Baysden, Executive Director
PO Box 75, Beaufort, SC 29901
843/521-2175
48
Area Served
Aiken
Barnwell
Statewide
Beaufort County
Table 12. South Carolina Land Trust Network, Continued
Land Trusts
Black Creek Land Trust
Chattooga Land Trust
Community Open Land Trust
Congaree Land Trust
Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (Lowcountry
Initiative)
Edisto Island Open Land Trust
Katawba Valley Land Trust
Kiawah Island Natural Habitat
Conservancy, Inc.
Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust
Lowcountry Open Land Trust
Nation Ford Land Trust
Naturaland Trust
Palmetto Conservation Foundation
Contact Information
John J. James, II
PO Box 647, Darlington, SC 29540
843/393-3881
Ed Kizer, Executive Director
PO Box 927
Clayton, GA 30525
864/647-0615
Sue Sommer Green, Executive Director
PO Box 1605
Lexington, SC 29071
803/996-0617
Jane Clarke, Executive Director
PO Box 232, Columbia, SC 29202
803/988-0000
Edwin Cooper
3896 Leeds Avenue
North Charleston, SC 29405
843/745-7881
Marian Brailsford, Executive Director
PO Box 1, Edisto Island, SC 29438
843/869-9004
Paul Gettys
PO Box 450, Rock Hill, SC 29731
803/285-9455
Norman Norton, Chairman
514 Ruddy Turnstone
Johns Island, SC 29455
843/768-1878
Barry Jurs, Executive Director
233 North Live Oak Drive, Room A-5
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
843/719-4150
Will Haynie, Executive Director
485 East Bay Street
Charleston, SC 29403
843/577-0501
Jeff Updike, Executive Director
PO Box 431
Fort Mill, SC 29716
803/547-8140
Tommy Wyche
PO Box 728
Greenville, SC 29602
864/235-8900
Ken Driggers
1314 Lincoln Street, Suite 213
Columbia, SC 29201
803/771-0870
49
Area Served
Darlington
Chattooga River
Watershed
GA, NC, SC
GA, NC, SC
Richland, Lexington,
Sumter, Fairfield,
Orangeburg, Bamberg,
Clarendon, Williamsburg
Statewide
Colleton, Charleston –
Only Edisto Island
Lancaster, Chester
Kiawah Island
Berkeley
Charleston, Georgetown,
Horry, Berkeley, Jasper,
Dorchester, Colleton,
Beaufort, Allendale,
Hampton
York
Greenville
Statewide
Table 12. South Carolina Land Trust Network, Continued
Land Trusts
Pee Dee Land Trust
Contact Information
PO Box 4
Darlington, SC 29540
843/618-7888
Friends of the Reedy River Land
Trust
Dan Trout, Executive Director
PO Box 9351
Greenville, SC 29604
864/255-8946
Bob Scarborough
PO Box 12441
Charleston, SC 29422
843/556-1995
Mary Walter
PO Box 18168
Spartanburg, SC 29318-8168
864/948-0000
Kevin Brice
711 Iredell Street
Durham, NC 27705
919/286-9260
Ashley Demosthenes
PO Box 20246
Charleston, SC 29413
843/937-8807, ext. 11
Peggy Adams
704 Chinquapin Road
Greenwood, SC 29646
864/223-7804
Brad Wyche
PO Box 2308
Greenville, SC 29602
864/250-0500
David Serrano
3700 Clay Pond Road
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
843/903-6307
Barry Beasley
PO Box 167
Columbia, SC 29202
803/734-3912
Von Snelgrove
PO Box 167
Columbia, SC 29292
803/734-6360
Slade Gleaton
2 Burns Lane
Charleston, SC 29401
843/853-5880
SC Battleground Preservation Trust
Spartanburg Conservation
Endowment
Southeast Program, Land Trust
Alliance
The Nature Conservancy
Upper Savannah Land Trust
Upstate Forever
Waccamaw Land Trust
SCDNR Heritage Trust Program
SCDNR – Land, Water &
Conservation Division
Trust for Public Lands
50
Area Served
Chesterfield, Darlington,
Dillon, Florence, Marion,
Georgetown, Marlboro,
Williamsburg
Greenville, Laurens
Statewide – focus
battleground areas
Spartanburg, Union,
Cherokee
Southeast Office of LTA
for AL, AR, FL, GA, KY,
LA, MS, NC, SC, TN
Statewide
Edgefield, Greenwood,
Saluda, Laurens,
Abbeville, McCormick,
Newberry
Greenville, Spartanburg,
Laurens, Union, Pickens,
Oconee, Anderson,
Cherokee
Horry, Georgetown,
Marion
Statewide Heritage Trust
Program
Soil and water
conservation districts
Statewide
Statewide
Table 12. South Carolina Land Trust Network, Continued
Related Resources
The Conservation Fund
SC Conservation Bank
Contact Information
Jason Johnson
7580 Charlotte Highway, Suite 800
Ft. Mill, SC 29707
803/829-8054
Marvin Davant, Executive Director
PO Box 167
Columbia, SC 29202
803/734-3986
Area Served
Statewide
Statewide
3. OTHER RESOURCES
South Carolina is blessed with a wealth of natural resources which have special attraction for
outdoor recreation. Rivers, wetlands and historic and culturally-significant sites contribute to
the State’s rich recreation environment.
a. Rivers
Though seriously impacted by recent drought conditions, South Carolina’s rivers have
historically been abundant and accessible, providing a myriad of recreational opportunities for
residents throughout the State. Most notable among these river resources are the Chattooga
National Wild and Scenic River and nine designated South Carolina Scenic Rivers, as
discussed previously in this chapter.
The South Carolina Rivers Assessment, completed by the SC Water Resources Commission in
1988, identified the significance of the State’s rivers and river segments for natural, economic,
cultural, and recreational resources. Values were assigned in 14 distinct resource categories as
shown in Table 13. The study assessed more than 11,000 miles of rivers and streams. Key
findings of the study included:
The river resources of South Carolina are significant to the Southeastern United States
in the range of beneficial public uses that they provide.
More than 1,400 rivers and river segments in the State were listed under the value
classification system for which they possessed at least one or more significant riverrelated resource values.
Approximately 34,776 river miles, or more than three times the State's total river miles,
were classified for significant natural, cultural, economic, and recreational resource
values. Many of the rivers were evaluated in more than one resource category. As
shown in Table 11, the total number of miles receiving classification under the study
reflects the overlapping evaluation of rivers among multiple resource categories.
Fifteen of the 1,400 rivers and river segments evaluated in South Carolina were found
to have some significance (local, regional, statewide, or greater than statewide) in
eleven or more resource categories. These rivers and river segments included:
51
Black River
Broad River
Catawba River
Combahee River
Congaree River
Edisto River
Great Pee Dee River
Little Pee Dee River
North Fork Edisto River
Salkehatchie River
Saluda River
Savannah River
South Fork Edisto River
Waccamaw River
Wateree River
The resource categories of wildlife habitat, recreational fishing and inland fisheries had
the highest percentages of the State's river miles that were ranked of statewide or greater
significance.
Seven of South Carolina's rivers were found to have statewide or greater than statewide
significance in seven or more resource categories.
There is considerable support from private and public river interests in sound
management and decision-making regarding the river resources of South Carolina.
Class 1 Rivers represent superior resources of statewide or greater significance; Class 2 Rivers
are considered outstanding resources of regional significance; Class 3 Rivers are determined as
significant resources of local significance; and Class 4 River resources remain unknown and
require further research and documentation. The totals in Table 13 may vary due to rounding.
Table 13. Summary of Resource Category River Miles in South Carolina
Resource Category
Agricultural
Historic/Cultural
Industrial
Inland Fisheries
Natural Features
Recreational Boating
Whitewater
Flatwater
Backcountry
Recreational Fishing
Timber
Segments Only
Entire Rivers
Total
Undeveloped
Urban
Utilities*
Water Quality
Water Supply
Wildlife
Total Miles
1
516
633
598
1,364
462
Value Class River Miles
2
3
678
2,615
162
294
561
1,126
1,448
840
873
687
4
65
1
60
48
627
Total
Miles
3,875
1,091
2,345
3,699
2,650
120
789
963
1,031
39
658
680
598
43
475
360
738
60
232
202
1,922
2,063
2,600
748
1,273
2,021
978
34
289
360
401
1,747
11,034
1,723
153
1,876
872
41
466
114
774
1,451
11,139
1,508
1,508
204
13
795
136
1,571
11,407
28
73
1,196
3,979
1,426
5,405
2,054
116
755
1,270
1,311
4,843
34,776
* For the “Utilities” resource category, Value Class 1 = Active; Value Class 2 = Active Reserve.
Source: South Carolina Rivers Assessment, SC Water Resources Commission, 1988.
52
b. Wetlands
Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world, comparable to rain forests and
coral reefs. Unfortunately, the US Fish and Wildlife Service report entitled Wetlands Losses in the
United States, 1780s to 1980s, estimates that wetlands in South Carolina decreased by 27% during
the last century, resulting in a loss of more than 1.75 million acres of wetlands.
Because wetlands provide numerous benefits for humans, it is important to encourage their
protection. In addition to providing habitat for plants and wildlife, estuarine wetlands provide
critical habitat for a majority of the commercial fish and shellfish consumed in the United States.
According to information provided by the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control
(SCDHEC), 96% of the commercial catch and more than 50% of the recreational catch in the
Southeast consists of fish and shellfish that depend on estuary/coastal wetland systems. Coastal
wetlands also act as a buffer to protect shore areas from waves and storms and help to reduce and
even prevent erosion.
Ninety percent (90%) of the State’s wetlands are freshwater wetlands. Freshwater wetlands can
store stormwater to reduce flooding, as well as purify water by holding and breaking down
pollutants and by trapping silt or soil so that it settles in the wetlands instead of clogging up
nearby streams. Some wetlands store water in the rainy season and release the water later into
nearby aquifers or underground streams. This cycle recharges the groundwater that supplies
many South Carolinians with drinking water. There are also aesthetic values to wetlands in that
they provide opportunities for boating, fishing, hunting and nature watching. People who hunt,
fish, crab, hike, walk and boat, and those who observe and photograph birds in wetlands spend
nearly $10 billion a year on their hobbies. Wetlands also provide valuable educational
experiences for all ages.
Scientists have linked atmospheric maintenance as an additional beneficial wetland function.
Wetlands store carbon within their plant communities and soil (plants use carbon dioxide to
photosynthesize) instead of releasing it to the atmosphere. Thus, wetlands even play a role in
moderating global climate conditions.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) describes isolated ponds and
wetlands as temporary freshwater features found embedded in other habitats. Examples
include Carolina Bays, limesinks, flatwoods ponds and pocosins. While these waterbodies
differ in their geologic origin and geomorphology, they are typically isolated from flowing
streams, particularly any inflows. Occasionally these waterbodies will have an outflow
"stream" that only flows when exceptionally heavy rains fill the pond above full pool. These
isolated ponds and wetlands are vital to many species, particularly to amphibians as breeding
ponds. Abundant grasses and sedges found at the edges of these waterbodies provide habitat
structure for many species of amphibian larvae. Adjacent upland habitats are equally important
to amphibian species. Although the waterbodies are used for breeding and nursery areas for the
larval stages of these animals, they require appropriate upland habitat as adults.
The South Carolina Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy has identified a number of
Species of Greatest Conservation Need that rely on isolated ponds and wetlands. Included are
53
19 amphibians, two freshwater fishes and 7 varieties of crayfish categorized as the highest
priority or high priority for conservation.
South Carolina is blessed with a variety of wetlands including coastal marshes and estuaries;
swamps, bogs, isolated wetlands; and transitional areas around lakes, bays, ponds and rivers.
Because of the many benefits of all of these types of wetlands, it is important to protect and
conserve these areas for future generations. While more than 30 agencies and organizations in
South Carolina have a direct interest in wetlands and wetland preservation, there is no
comprehensive state program for wetlands protection. Many factors affect wetlands and are
leading to their loss or degradation. In addition to natural influences, the human impacts of
urban development, pond construction, draining for agriculture, and pollution have resulted in
wetland loss or degradation. Loss of any wetlands, especially through filling, increases runoff
with a subsequent loss of the wetland functions for flood control, groundwater recharge, and
water quality improvement. Of particular concern is the conservation of unique isolated
freshwater wetlands such as Carolina Bays.
Existing State programs are tied to the Federal program, which is pursuant to Section 404 of the
Federal Clean Water Act. The US Army Corps of Engineers administers a permitting program
for the deposition of dredged or fill material into navigable waters, including wetlands, and
evaluates these discharges according to the 404(b)(1) guidelines developed by the US
Environmental Protection Agency. SC DHEC has historically reviewed the US Army Corps of
Engineers permits for activities that alter wetlands in South Carolina. Through both the Bureau
of Water’s Section 401 water quality certification and the Office of Ocean and Coastal
Resource Management’s coastal zone consistency certifications, DHEC is able to regulate
activities, most notably the placement of fill material in wetlands.
Increasingly, citizen groups and non-profit agencies (especially land trusts) have mobilized
and, in many cases, partnered with governmental agencies to protect and restore wetlands. As
testament to the growing interest in wetlands preservation, several significant studies
concerning South Carolina’s wetlands have been completed in recent years. These include the
South Carolina Wetlands Study: A Component of the State Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCPRT,
1988), the Southeast Regional Wetlands Concept Plan (USFWS, 1990), and the Assessing
Change in the Edisto River Basin: An Ecological Characterization (SC Water Resources
Commission, 1993).
The SCPRT study identified agencies and organizations involved in wetlands management,
considered existing and proposed wetlands protection mechanisms, assessed wetlands
resources, identified loss and degradation factors, evaluated protection methods, and
established priority wetland types for acquisition. South Carolina has approximately 4.6 million
acres of wetlands that comprise nearly one-fourth of the State’s total land area. The SCPRT
study acknowledged that South Carolina’s wetlands are important to outdoor recreation
because they support fishing, hunting, boating, wildlife observation and photography, nature
study, swimming, camping, hiking, historic sites, and walking for pleasure. Plants and wildlife
are abundant and many endangered, rare, or uncommon species exist in these areas. The
SCPRT study and the SCDNR Heritage Trust Program identified inland freshwater wetlands,
54
such as Carolina bays and bottomland hardwood forests, as the most threatened wetland
resources.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service report identified loss, threat, and function and values for the
wetland types in South Carolina. The conversion of freshwater wetlands accounts for the
greatest percentage of wetland loss for the State. The study also identified specific sites for
priority acquisition or preservation. These initial fifteen sites are shown in Table 12 with
additional sites to be considered as new assessment information becomes available.
An overall wetland protection goal developed by SC Department of Natural Resources
recognizes the need for protection of certain rare wetland habitat types. The following wetland
habitats, as described in The Natural Communities of South Carolina by John Nelson, should
be considered primary protection targets:
Atlantic white cedar bogs
Limestone sinks
Piedmont seepage forests
Pond pine/cypress savannahs
Herb bogs
Seepage and streamhead pocosins
According to the SC Department of Natural Resources, wetlands in State Scenic River
corridors are considered for acquisition/preservation priority in addition to the recommended
wetland protection sites listed in Table 14. At present, there are nine State Scenic Rivers (see
Table 7). SCDNR also recommended that the wetland sites identified in the natural area
inventory described in the 1993 Edisto River Basin Ecological Characterization Report,
published by the SC Water Resources Commission (now SCDNR) should be considered for
acquisition/preservation. These sites were identified through a systematic survey of sites that
were relatively undisturbed, high-quality natural communities. A total of 149 sites meeting the
criteria were identified and 95% were wetland communities.
Further wetland acreage is conserved through various non-profit conservation organizations.
The Nature Conservancy has acquired a significant amount of wetland acreage for protection in
addition to efforts by Ducks Unlimited, local land trusts, and many other organizations in
wetland preservation and education. Many of these wetlands are protected through local nonprofits working with private landowners using voluntary conservation easements. These
organizations play a critical role by working in conjunction with the State to establish wetland
sanctuaries and conservation areas.
Table 14. Important Wetlands in South Carolina
Area Name
Congaree Swamp National Monument
Monetta Sink
Janet Harrison Highpond
Barton Bay
Ashleigh Bay
ACE River Basin
County
Richland
Aiken
Aiken
Allendale
Barnwell
Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton
55
Acres
22,200
14
18
231
24
273,000
Table 14. Important Wetlands in South Carolina, Continued
Area Name
Four Hole Swamp
Santee Delta
Upper Winyah Bay
Dukes Bay
Bare Bone Bay Complex
Little Pee Dee
Mt. Pleasant Church Bay
Branchville Bay
Saluda County High Ponds
Shiloh Savannah
Lewis Ocean Bay
Chandler Heritage Preserve
Blackwell Bunched Arrowhead
Bennetts Bay
Cartwheel Bay
Waccamaw River
Peter’s Creek
Black Creek
Sparkleberry Swamp (Upper Lake Marion)
Wetlands in State Scenic River Corridors
Wetlands in Edisto River Basin Report
Total
County
Dorchester, Orangeburg
Georgetown
Georgetown
Hampton
Horry
Horry, Marion
Lee
Orangeburg
Saluda
Sumter
Horry
Greenville
Greenville
Clarendon
Horry
Horry
Spartanburg
Darlington
Sumter/Clarendon
(various)
(various)
Acres
2,050
15,300
23,000
250
1,100
50,000
55
20
31
43
9,393
60
16
680
568
5,347
160
500
16,700
not determined
not determined
403,860+
Sources: Southeast Regional Wetlands Concept Plan, August, 1990, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Correspondence from SC Department of Natural Resources, 2001.
A more recent report entitled Conserving South Carolina: Sustaining and Protecting our
Natural Resources was released in 2001 by a consortium of sponsoring conservation
organizations that included Ducks Unlimited, the Nature Conservancy, the SC Coastal
Conservation League, the National Audubon Society, the Lowcountry Open Land Trust, and
the ACE Basin Task Force. The Study involved more than 75 of the State’s leading ecologists,
foresters, botanists, ornithologists, natural historians, and wildlife biologists who were called
upon to identify areas that are critical to the continued survival of South Carolina’s natural
heritage. These areas are identified in a South Carolina Ecological Vision Map which broadly
portrays areas that should be maintained and enhanced for traditional uses and ecological
values through a variety of conservation measures. The Study identified more than 5.9 million
acres of unpreserved forests, swamps, open land and river corridors, with most of the land
located in the State’s coastal plain. Of the nearly 6 million acres identified, 3.5 million were
considered critically significant wildlife habitat.
The 2005 Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (CWCS) coordinated
by SCDNR emphasized habitat protection as one of the most important actions to
preserve South Carolina’s priority species. Because the loss and fragmentation of habitat poses
a major threat to many of the identified species, the CWCS focuses on habitat or ecosystembased conservation as a means to protect multiple species in a more cost-effective manner. A
key recommendation of the proposed strategy is to acquire property for protection of priority
56
species and to ensure habitat linkage through fee simple acquisition and conservation
easements in the following habitats (many of which include wetlands):
Terrestrial Habitats
Appalachian Oak & Oak Pine Forest
Basic Mesic Forest
Acidic Mesic Forest
High-elevation Forest
Riverbanks, Streambanks & Alder Zones
Moist or Wet Types
Vertical or Horizontal Rock Outcrop
Upland Forest
Piedmont Small Stream Forest
River Bottoms
Cove Forest
Grassland & Early Successional Habitats
Sandhills Pine Woodland
Seepage Slopes
Ponds & Depressions
Blackwater Stream Systems
Pine Woodland
Upland Forest
Wet Flatlands
River Slopes & Stream Bottoms
Watersheds
Santee River Watershed
Savannah River Watershed
Pee Dee River Watershed
ACE Basin Watershed
Coastal & Marine Habitats
Forested Habitats - Coastal Plain
Maritime Forest
Early Successional Habitats - Coastal Plain
Managed Impoundments
Tidal Fresh & Brackish Systems
Isolated Nonforested Uplands
Estaurine Systems
Hammock Islands
Ocean Beaches & Transition Zones
Marine Ecosystem
Man-made Structures
c. Historic Sites
South Carolina has a wealth of historic and culturally significant places. The State has 1,365
listings, including 163 historic districts, in the National Register of Historic Places. These
listings include buildings, structures, and sites ranging from Native American campgrounds
dating to 8,000 BC to sites associated with the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s; from grand
mansions to modest farmhouses; and from upcountry textile mill villages to Pee Dee railroad
towns and Lowcountry rice fields.
However, these irreplaceable historic places are at risk – threatened by rapid, unplanned
development, demographic changes, disappearing farmland and evolving agricultural practices,
and a general lack of public awareness and appreciation. The State has lost, and continues to
lose, its historic buildings, structures, sites, and landscapes at an alarming rate. As historic
properties deteriorate or are destroyed, gaps are created in our downtown streetscapes and the
local landmarks that make South Carolina communities special are lost, forever erasing
tangible reminders of our shared history.
Officials from SC Department of Archives and History (SCDAH) note that the continued
perception of many people is that “historic” properties are limited to antebellum buildings, high
style architecture, the homes of famous people, and the sites of great historic events. Too few
appreciate the buildings, sites and districts that tell the story of their own communities and the
57
social and economic benefits of preserving these places. Particularly at risk are buildings from
the more recent past and buildings associated with everyday life in communities – the buildings
that line the main streets and provide special character to neighborhoods. Lack of appreciation
makes these buildings vulnerable to abandonment, insensitive renovations, and demolition
because they are perceived as old and out-of-date.
US Census of Housing data gives some indication of the rate at which historic properties are
lost across the State. In 1940, there were 458,899 housing units in South Carolina. Over the
last six decades, almost 75% of these pre-World War II residences have been lost, with the rate
of loss increasing each decade since 1950. However, it should be noted that the Census figures
do not take into account all of the commercial buildings, agricultural buildings, public
buildings, churches, schools, industrial buildings, and archaeological sites that have been
destroyed during this same time period.
As part of the development of a new statewide historic preservation plan, in 2005 the State
Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) asked historic preservation advocates across the State to
identify the historic properties that were most threatened and in need of preservation
assistance. The Plan, titled Preserving Our Past to Build a Healthy Future, most frequently
cites downtowns, cemeteries, and African American buildings and sites. Houses and
neighborhoods, small towns, rural landscapes and agricultural buildings, 20th Century
buildings, archaeological sites, textile mills and villages and battlefield sites were also
identified in the Plan.
SCPRT requested guidance from the SCDAH regarding important historic sites in the State.
According to SCDAH, the most important sites in need of protection include:
Downtowns in both large cities and small towns face pressures. Our historic downtowns
have traditionally served as the heart of the community. These areas contain many
cherished landmarks, including civic, religious, institutional, commercial and residential
buildings. These districts possess a character and charm not found in shopping centers
and superstores. In some communities, the pressure comes from rapidly rising land prices
and development pressure to demolish older buildings and replace them with larger,
sometimes out-of-scale, new construction. In other communities, a lack of economic
vitality means buildings sit vacant or underutilized and owners lack the means or incentive
to keep the buildings repaired. It is difficult for these communities to find new uses for
and attract investors to deteriorated historic buildings.
Cemeteries face a wide range of threats from neglect and vandalism to destruction by
development. The thousands of cemeteries in South Carolina are an important feature of
our diverse heritage. In addition to marking the final resting places of our ancestors, they
yield information about our State's social, religious, artistic, and cultural heritage. They
also contain genealogical information that often can not be found anywhere else.
African American sites associated with the critical role played by African Americans in
the historical development of South Carolina are also threatened and in need of
recognition and preservation. These include schools, churches, neighborhoods, and sites
associated with the Civil Rights struggle. While progress is being made on a number of
58
fronts, relatively few buildings, structures, and sites associated with African American
history have been documented and preserved. When sites such as a Rosenwald School are
identified, funding for preservation hinders the efforts to repair and reuse.
Historic neighborhoods and houses are also important elements in our historic
landscape. They range from the earliest log cabins to neighborhoods of the mid-twentieth
century. In some desirable neighborhoods, historic houses are being demolished and
replaced with one or more new and larger residences. Not only is the historic structure
lost, but the historic character and feel of the neighborhood is diminished. In other
neighborhoods, deterioration and abandonment leads to destruction of historic houses that
are deemed "blighted" housing. As noted earlier, the rate of loss is dramatic according to
US Census of Housing figures. In 1940, there were 458,899 pre-1940 houses in South
Carolina, in 2000 only 107,139 of these remained, a loss rate of more than 75%.
Rural landscapes remain at risk. In 1900, 87% of South Carolinians lived in rural areas.
One hundred years later in 2000, only 30% of State residents lived in rural areas. These
population shifts, along with changing agricultural practices, put the State’s historic
farmhouses, agricultural buildings, and landscapes at risk. On the remaining farms,
advances in agricultural technology can make historic buildings and structures unsuitable
for their original uses. New land-use patterns and demographic changes also threaten
many other buildings and sites associated with South Carolina’s eighteenth, nineteenth
and early twentieth century rural agricultural society. Many family cemeteries, country
stores, rural schools and churches, and archaeological sites have been lost.
Archaeological sites are particularly at risk because most of their features lie hidden
below the ground. Construction of new subdivisions, shopping centers, industrial parks
and other developments can compromise archaeological sites before they are even known
to exist. Prehistoric people occupied much of the State as early as 10,000 years ago.
Through archaeology, present and future generations can learn how these early people
hunted, what they ate, how their communities were organized, and how they buried their
dead – much of which is not currently known.
Battlefields and other sites associated with military history range from Revolutionary
and Civil War sites to early defense installations such as the Charleston Naval Yard.
Many South Carolina sites associated with the military, particularly those associated with
the American Revolution and the Civil War, are under almost constant threat by the
pressures of development in an expanding economy. For example, a study of
Revolutionary War Sites funded by the American Battlefields Protection Program
identified more than 250 battle and skirmish sites in South Carolina, outnumbering the
rest of the colonies combined.
Historic textile mills have been lost at an accelerating rate in recent years. With the
closing of many textile mills in South Carolina, historic textile mill communities face the
challenges of finding jobs for residents, attracting viable new uses for the vacant industrial
buildings, and encouraging new economic investment for their communities. While some
communities have found new investors to restore and reuse these sites, in others, the mill
structures have been demolished by companies salvaging the valuable bricks and timbers.
59
In 2000, a panel representing the SC Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, the
Palmetto Trust for Historic Preservation, the Palmetto Conservation Foundation, the SC
Downtown Development Association, and the SC Department of Archives and History
developed a list of the Eleven Most Endangered Historic Buildings or Sites in South Carolina.
This release represented the third time the Palmetto Trust for Historic Preservation, the SC
Department of Archives and History, the SC Chapter of the American Institute of Architects,
and the SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism worked together to compile a list of
endangered historic places. Previous Endangered Lists were released in 1995 and 1997. The
release of the 2000 list coincided with National Historic Preservation Week in 2000 and the
first annual Statewide Historic Preservation Conference. In the release, the Palmetto Trust for
Historic Preservation stressed that “South Carolina stands to lose these historically significant
and severely threatened places unless action is taken soon.”
The Endangered List includes properties in all regions of the State. In the Upstate, the listing
includes the Old Tuberculosis Hospital in Greenville, the Carnegie Free Library in Gaffney –
now on the National Register – and the Poinsett Bridge in Greenville County. In and around
the Midlands region, Bamberg’s Main Street Central Business District and Oakhurst in
Newberry made the list. In the Pee Dee region, the list includes the J.J. Lawton Sunday School
Building at the First Baptist Church in Hartsville and the Civil War Stockade in Florence. The
Lowcountry list includes: a cluster of Charleston buildings consisting of the High School of
Charleston, the Alston House, and 141 Ashley Avenue; buildings and archaeological remains
of the colonial village of Cainhoy in Berkeley County; and the archaeological remains of the
colonial settlement of Childsbury in Berkeley County.
The list also includes a group of railway depots located around the State consisting of the
Norfolk Southern Railway Depot in Prosperity, the Southern Railway Freight Depot in
Branchville, the Seaboard Airline Railway Station in Camden, and the City of Myrtle Beach
Railroad Station.
Four additional sites were not included on the final list, but were found to be noteworthy for
their historical significance and threatened status. These noteworthy sites are the Faith Cabin
Library in Pendleton, the Henry Gaffney Home Place in Gaffney, the Leaphart-Harmon House
in Lexington, and the Old Charleston Jail in Charleston.
4. LAND ACQUISITION AND PROTECTION
A critical issue for outdoor recreation at several levels in South Carolina is land protection and
acquisition. High water quality, excellent fisheries, and the pleasures of scenic beauty from
highways, overlooks, and trails are often dependent on properties that are protected through
multiple mechanisms. Under fee simple acquisition, land is purchased for active recreation and
conservation use in state parks, Heritage Trust areas, local recreation sites, wildlife
management areas, and other purposes. Other protection measures, such as conservation
easements, may or may not allow public access and recreational use and are primarily designed
to protect viewsheds, watersheds, and scenic vistas. The ACE Basin is a high profile example
of this land protection approach in South Carolina.
60
Statewide land conservation measures have increased substantially with the passage of the
Conservation Bank Act in 2002, which has provided more than $70 million in grant funding
for land conservation since funding was provided in 2004. The Bank awards grants to eligible
trust fund recipients including SCDNR, the SC Forestry Commission, and SCPRT,
municipalities and non-profit charitable land conservation or historic preservation corporations
or trusts, for the purchase of significant conservation or recreational land and protective
easements. However, county governments are not eligible to apply for grants from the
Conservation Bank. Over 134,000 acres of land have been conserved through the Conservation
Bank since its inception. Efforts at the local level, while not yet widespread, have in some
cases been significant.
In Beaufort County, voters recently renewed funding in the amount of $50 million for its Rural
and Critical Land Preservation Program. The program is the means by which the County
acquires property for conservation, parks, buffers, scenic vistas and preservation of valuable
economic and natural resources. Land acquisitions may be made by a fee simple purchase, a
purchase of development rights or a donation of development rights, which often allow the
property owner and their family to remain on the land and use it for farming, hunting, fishing or
other historic purposes agreed upon at the time of the transaction. Conservation easements,
which protect land from development in perpetuity, may also be negotiated. Since 1997, the
program has preserved more than 10,000 acres of land – exhausting the original $40 million
approved for the program in 2000.
Charleston County adopted its Greenbelt Bank in June of 2006 as called for by the Charleston
County Comprehensive Greenbelt Plan. The Greenbelt Bank was established to protect and
conserve land and promote balanced growth in the County through funding provided by a
portion of the Transportation “Half-Cent” Sales Tax. Approximately $55 million is available
for rural greenbelt projects that lie outside the Charleston County Urban Suburban Growth
Boundary, and approximately $25 million is available for urban greenbelt projects that fall
within the Growth Boundary. Greenbelt funds can be used for the acquisition of land and/or
purchase of development rights and to support minor improvements that provide public access
and use of conservation lands purchased with Greenbelt monies. These improvements include
boardwalks, unpaved roadways, foot bridges, unpaved small parking areas, and unpaved trails.
As of July 2007, the Bank has provided $12 million in funding for 13 rural projects that protect
3,972 acres and $2.4 million in funding for 6 urban projects that protect more than 141 acres.
The Central Midlands Council of Governments (CMCOG) is approaching the preservation of
open space from a regional perspective. In December 2007, the CMCOG Board approved a
concept document entitled Keeping it Green in the Midlands that outlines a vision for
assembling a network of open space within the region. The document concludes an intensive
yearlong effort that involved extensive research, analysis, and public input through a series of
four workshops held at strategic locations within each of the four Midlands counties – Fairfield,
Lexington, Newberry and Richland – and an online open space survey. The effort led to the
development of a Green Infrastructure Concept Map for the region, as well as goals, objectives
and action steps to implement the program. The resulting document has been disseminated to
elected officials, planners, environmental groups and other interested parties within the region,
61
in hope that Fairfield, Lexington and Newberry counties will begin to integrate open space
preservation into local planning efforts.
Richland County has already been working to preserve open space, adopting the Richland
County Conservation Ordinance in December 1998 to create a Conservation Commission.
The Ordinance provides a number of mechanisms for the Commission to help conserve natural
areas, including negotiating conservation easements, developing access to resources, accepting
donations or bargain sales, purchasing property for public or protective ownership, and helping
with the maintenance, preservation, protection, identification, or development of natural,
cultural, or historic properties. In the most recent fiscal year (FY2007-2008), tax proceeds (1/2
of one mil) allocated for the County conservation program totaled $605,000. As of the end of
2007, the Commission has placed easements on 6 properties for a total of 311 acres in the
northwestern and northeastern areas of the County. In addition, 16 grants totaling $141,000
have been awarded for community trail projects and for the development of a comprehensive
greenway program.
York County Forever was formed in 1998 by the York County Council with the goal of
preserving one acre of undeveloped land for every one acre of property developed. The
organization was the first local government land preservation program in South Carolina and
has preserved 8,743 acres since its inception, with an additional 4,975 acres preserved through
partnerships for private conservation efforts. Included in the preserved public acreage are
unique and significant natural ecosystems such as the monadnock (a large granite outcropping)
of Nanny’s Mountain and a sizeable outcrop of granite flatrock in Clover that is home to
several species of rare flora. The private partnerships include several large agricultural
properties that are important to the County’s rural history. The York County Forever program
has garnered state and national awards as a model for local government open space protection.
Virtually all outdoor recreational pursuits require or are enhanced by the amount and quality of
protected land available to the public. While South Carolina has made significant strides in
recent years in terms of land acquisition and protection, the Palmetto State still has far to go to
catch up with regional and national trends. In addition to current programs in South Carolina,
several neighboring state and Federal recreation programs that allow land acquisition and
protection are also profiled in the sections that follow. Most of these programs provide limited
funds to acquire significant lands.
a. South Carolina Programs
Recreation Land Trust Fund (RELT) – This program is generally funded at $358,000 per year
shared by local recreation departments and State agencies. Funding has remained relatively
steady since the program began in 1978. Only about $100,000 per year is reserved for state
park land purchases.
Heritage Land Trust Fund (HLTF) – The HLTF is funded primarily through the allocation of a
small percentage of the Real Estate Documentation Stamp Tax Fee and must be used to acquire
and manage significant natural and cultural areas. Funding for the program rose steadily from
FY 2002 to a high of more than $8.9 million in FY 2006 due primarily to the State's booming
62
real estate market. However, HLTF funding dropped by more than half a million dollars to
$8.4 million in FY 2007 when the real estate market began to slow. Revenues decreased by
approximately 20% as of January of FY 2008, due to the continued market decline.
Conservation Land Bank – This Bank was established by the State legislature under the 2002
Conservation Bank Act to fund the purchase of significant conservation or recreational land as
well as protective easements. The Bank was not funded until July 2004. Since that time the
Conservation Bank has provided more than $70 million to conserve more than 134,000 acres of
land, including more than 124,000 acres of forestlands and wetlands (Table 15). Landowners
who wish to voluntarily participate may sell property outright or they may enter into
conservation easements and retain traditional use of their land. However, the SC Conservation
Bank is prohibited by law from owning any interests in land. The Conservation Bank is funded
primarily by a percentage of the Real Estate Transfer Fee. Twenty-five cents of every $1.30
generated by the fee is placed in a special trust fund to be used solely for the Conservation
Bank, generating an average annual revenue of more than $18 million. In the FY 2007-08 State
budget, the Conservation Bank also received a non-recurring additional appropriation of $5
million.
Table 15. Summary of Grants Funded by the SC Conservation Bank, FY 2004 to 2007
Land Type
Forestlands/Wetlands
Urban Parks
Farm Lands
Historical Lands
Totals
Acres
124,178.00
551.00
8,957.72
485.20
134,171.92
Funding
$53,175,013
$7,611,140
$9,041,904
$911,502
$70,739,559
Source: SC Conservation Bank website: http://sccbank.sc.gov/summary.html, November 2007.
The Conservation Bank awards grants to eligible trust fund recipients for the purchase of
interests in land provided the grants meet the purpose and criteria of the Act. Eligible trust
fund recipients include SCDNR, the SC Forestry Commission, and SCPRT; municipalities; and
non profit charitable corporations or trusts whose principal activity is the acquisition and
management of interests in land for conservation or historic preservation purposes. Most
Conservation Bank funding is matched with other grants, donations, or bargain sales to
leverage the State’s investment. In support of land acquisition and preservation in the State,
government agencies at all levels and other public and private organizations should work to
fully fund the Conservation Land Bank on a continuing annual basis and encourage the
exploration of alternative funding sources to leverage Bank resources.
b. Significant Lands Programs in Other States
It is difficult to compare other state programs as they relate to significant lands protection as
conservation goals can differ in addressing specific state and local purposes. Some use
dedicated percentages of the total fund for varying conservation purposes. Others have a
centralized board that allocates funds between competing interests, often by competitive grant
application. Despite the inherent difficulties of exact comparison, an assessment of South
Carolina’s relative position in preserving significant lands is not encouraging.
63
South Carolina is among the fastest growing states in the nation. AARP ranks the State
as the 2nd fastest growing in terms of in-migrant retirees and among the top seven
retirement locations nationwide. From 2000 to 2007, the State grew by 9.9%, resulting
in a ranking of 11th nationwide in population growth.
SC Conservation Bank estimates project the State’s population will grow by an
additional 25% within 15 years. To support this growth, the State will need 525,000
new housing units, 40 million feet of new office space, 13,000 hotel rooms, and 50%
more paved roads.
In the 2000 “sprawl index” created by Rutgers University’s Center for Urban Policy
Research that rates each state’s vulnerability to future growth, South Carolina ranks 5th
nationally in urban sprawl. A related study conducted by the USDA Natural Resource
Conservation Service estimated that nearly 200,000 acres of the State’s farmland was
lost to urban uses from 1987 to 1997.
Although dated, South Carolina ranked 48th in growth management in a 1999 Sierra
Club study that used 17 indicators focusing on open space protection, land use planning,
community revitalization, and transportation planning. The two states ranking lower
were Wyoming, with a low population density and a significant portion of its
environmentally sensitive land already under Federal protection, and North Dakota,
with relatively low population growth.
In 1998, South Carolina ranked 21st nationally in the amount of state park land among
the 50 states. By 2002, the State fell to 31st and then dropped further to 33rd in 2006.
While national comparisons can provide general benchmarks on progress, focusing on the
neighboring states of North Carolina, Georgia and Florida that share similar cultures,
demographics, landforms, and rapidly developing coastal regions is perhaps more revealing.
North Carolina – In 2000, the NC General Assembly set a goal of conserving one
million acres of critical lands by 2009. Conservation funding is provided through four
programs: the Clean Water Management Trust Fund, the Natural Heritage Trust Fund,
the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, and the Farmland Preservation Trust Fund. Land
for Tomorrow – a partnership that includes local governments, non-profits, community
groups and businesses – reports that more than $205 million has been provided through
the trust funds for conservation and preservation in the State of North Carolina since
1987. Conservation advocates are urging the legislature to approve a statewide bond
referendum that would authorize $1 billion in land and conservation bonds over the next
5 years. The 2007 State budget included $120 million for land acquisition to preserve
the State’s natural heritage. North Carolina also offers a conservation incentive
program for landowners that provides a substantial tax credit when real property is
donated for conservation purposes.
Florida – Florida enacted one of the most comprehensive land protection/conservation
programs in the nation in 2001. Through 2006, Florida Forever has expended $1.8
billion for the protection of 535,643 acres of land. During that time, the land
64
acquisition program has protected more than 231,730 acres of Strategic Habitat
Conservation Areas through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission;
374,890 acres of habitat conservation areas through the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory; 513,050 acres of ecological greenways through the Office of Greenways &
Trails; 68,260 acres of under-represented natural communities; 54,540 acres of natural
floodplains; 530,550 acres important to significant water bodies; 5,060 acres of fragile
coastline; 236,210 acres of functional wetlands; 524,846 acres of significant
groundwater recharge areas; 30,130 acres of land to support priority recreational trails;
268,330 acres of sustainable forest land; and more than 2,500 acres of archaeological
and historic sites. Many of the acreages recorded for each effort overlap multiple
categories and therefore do not add to the entire acreage protected during that time
period. The popularity of this program was demonstrated by a bi-partisan effort to
renew the program for an additional ten years at $300 million per year.
Georgia – In 2005, the Georgia Governor signed into law the Georgia Land
Conservation Act, an initiative to encourage the long-term conservation and protection
of Georgia’s natural, cultural and historic resources. The legislation established an
initial trust fund and a revolving loan fund of $100 million in State, Federal and private
funding, available to local governments and the Georgia Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) for the purchase of conservation lands and conservation easements.
An additional $47.3 million in State funding was made available for 2008. The
Georgia Land Conservation Program offers grants for fee title or conservation
easement purchases from the Georgia Land Conservation Trust Fund, as well as lowinterest loans for fee title or conservation easement purchases from the Georgia Land
Conservation Revolving Fund. Tax incentives are also available for donations of
conservation lands or conservation easements. To date the program has endorsed 36
projects totaling almost 38,000 acres.
While South Carolina as a whole lags behind its neighbors in land protection efforts, some local
jurisdictions mirror promising national trends for land conservation. The growth of private
land trusts and local government conservation programs is an encouraging trend. Land
protection programs will ultimately be more effective where there is broad support from the
public sector. Those programs which appear to be most promising are in counties with rapid
growth, sensitive areas, and a stronger economic base, such as Beaufort and Charleston
Counties. The loss of land from its natural state in some of these areas has given rise to
successful initiatives for public funding.
c. Attitudes and Support for Protecting Significant Lands
Nationally and in our own and neighboring states, voters have shown strong support for ballot
initiatives to control growth, preserve natural heritage and provide recreational access to
significant lands. Data from the North Carolina Joint Legislative Commission on Land and
Water Conservation shows that more than 657 out of 883 total referenda nationwide were
approved since 2001. These referenda provided more than $14 billion in new resources. The
Land Trust Alliance reported that in 2006, voters across the country approved conservation
65
ballot measures totaling $5.73 billion, with 99 of the 128 ballot measures to protect land for
parks and open space approved.
Since 1998, a number of significant local initiatives aimed at the protection and conservation of
land have been approved in South Carolina. Voters in Beaufort County agreed in 2000 to
allocate $40 million for the Beaufort County Rural and Critical Land Preservation Program.
Voters renewed the program and increased funding to $50 million in 2006. Both the 2000 and
2006 land preservation referenda in Beaufort County passed by a 3 to 1 margin. On Hilton
Head Island, land conservation bond issues were approved that provided $12 million for open
space acquisition and parks in 1998, $9.5 million for parks in 2000, and $15 million for the
acquisition and preservation of historic sites and open space in 2003. Each of the Hilton Head
issues passed by a margin of more than 78%, with the most recent 2003 vote passing by 83%.
In 2004, Charleston County voters approved the use of a portion of the Transportation “HalfCent” Sales Tax to protect and conserve land and promote balanced growth through the
establishment of a Greenbelt Bank – an estimated investment of more than $221.5 million.
In the 2001 State Survey conducted by USC’s Survey Research Laboratory, respondents
viewed growth management as one of the most important problems facing the State, ranking
higher than taxes, crime, and transportation and second only to education. In the State’s more
urban areas experiencing rapid development, the issue of growth ranked first, ahead of
education. Seventy percent of those polled also favored allowing the government to buy land
or development rights to preserve open space. Nearly 65% of the Survey respondents felt
communities should have the responsibility to plan for preserving land. A higher percentage
felt that the State must be a financial partner in such efforts.
Perhaps most revealing is that South Carolinians polled in the study reflected support levels
similar to national land protection ballot initiatives. South Carolina respondents would be
willing to pay more taxes for land protection – 69% supporting the use of revenues to buy land
for parks, 60% for the purchase of environmentally sensitive areas, and 51% to protect
greenbelts. Attitudes of South Carolinians on land protection have evolved rapidly and are
increasingly supportive of both public and private land conservation efforts. In light of this
rising public awareness of the need to protect natural resources, additional measures – through
funding and legislation – should be actively pursued to encourage and promote local
government and private sector land conservation, with particular emphasis on removing
constraints on the ability of local governments to fund such programs.
B. ASSESSMENT OF DEMAND
Mirroring the State’s population growth, the demand for new, updated and expanded
recreational facilities continues to increase. However, funding remains limited and recreational
expenditures must be prioritized. To determine current and long-range outdoor recreational
demand and needs in South Carolina, SCPRT launched a comprehensive needs assessment
process that involved the review of up-to-date demographic and economic data, surveys and
interviews of State residents, a series of public meetings, interagency meetings, and a review of
State and national trends in outdoor recreation. An in-depth review of the latest Census data
revealed a changing population that was aging, more racially and ethnically diverse, employed
66
in more diverse occupational sectors, and living in increasingly urbanized communities. A
formal telephone survey of State residents was conducted to assess recreational participation
and preference. The usage and needs of out-of-state visitors and special populations were also
examined. State and national trends in outdoor recreation were reviewed and major outdoor
recreation issues in South Carolina were identified through a series of regional public
workshops. Issues of national concern were also considered through interagency meetings and
focused research.
1. Recreation Participation and Preference
South Carolina's mild climate and diverse natural resources provide opportunities for
participation in a broad range of outdoor recreational activities, from beach swimming and
sunbathing along the coast to camping and hiking along guided nature trails in the mountains.
As part of its continuing efforts to meet the recreational needs of South Carolinians, SCPRT
periodically conducts surveys of the general public. The purpose of these surveys is to
determine the extent to which the State’s residents participate in a variety of recreational
activities, as well as their preferences for such activities. Previous surveys have been
conducted at five-year intervals in 1979, 1984, 1990, 1994 and 1999. This report provides
information from a telephone survey of 2,118 randomly selected South Carolina residents aged
12 years and older that was conducted from September 13 and November 18, 2005 by the
University of South Carolina's Institute for Public Service and Policy Research. In addition to
providing results for the complete sample, information is presented by subgroups in order to
examine the effect that different background characteristics have on recreation participation and
preference. The results of the 2005 Survey are also compared with those from previous years
in order to determine the extent to which changes have occurred over time in the recreational
participation and preferences of South Carolinians. A complete summary of the 2005
Recreation
Participation
and
Preference
Study
is
available
on-line
at
www.scprt.com/files/RPE/2005%20Rec%20Study.pdf.
Contact:
SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Recreation, Planning & Engineering Office
1205 Pendleton Street
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
803/734-0173
www.scprt.com or www.discoversouthcarolina.com
As part of the 2005 Study, respondents were asked if they had participated in a number of
traditional outdoor recreational activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing, as well as about
their participation in other activities, such as attending outdoor sporting events, driving for
pleasure, or working out with weights or exercise machines. In addition, two activities were
included for the first time in the 2005 Survey – driving for pleasure on a motorcycle and
geocaching or orienteering. Table 16 shows the percentage of the survey sample who reported
they had participated in these activities at least once during the past twelve months. The data
also provides comparisons with the results from the 1990, 1994 and 1999 surveys. The general
conclusion from the latest survey data is that South Carolinian participation in recreational
67
activities remained quite stable over the past 15 years. While there is some minor variation in
order, the same set of activities appear in the top eleven positions in 1990, 1994, 1999, and
2005 with only slight variations in rank and order between the years.
Walking for pleasure or exercise remains the activity in which the largest percentage of State
residents (83.2%) participates. Attending outdoor sporting events, beach swimming or
sunbathing, driving for pleasure, and working out with weights or exercise machines are the
activities that have the next highest degree of participation. Approximately half of those
interviewed reported participation in picnicking, swimming in a pool, or visiting historic sites.
Nearly 43% of respondents had been bicycling and nearly 40% visited a museum or went
freshwater fishing. Participation rates for other activities varied from nearly 35% for visiting
an unusual natural feature to slightly over 1% for playing in-line hockey.
Although there are some minor variations in participation levels in these recreational activities
across time, the trend that emerges most clearly from these data is one of overall stability.
"Walking for pleasure" has consistently been the activity in which the largest number of
persons 12 years and older take part. The percentage of residents who walk for pleasure or
exercise has increased with each survey since 1994. Similarly, the percentage of respondents
who reported working out with weights or exercise machines has consistently increased from
43% in 1990 to more than 57% in 2005. The percentage who reported visiting historic sites has
also steadily increased over the years from nearly 47% in 1990 to more than 52% in 2005. The
largest decline in participation over this period was in the percentage of residents who played
volleyball, which dropped steadily from 32.7% in 1990 to 27.9% in 1994, to 22.1% in 1999,
and again to 17.2% in the most recent survey. The percentage of persons who played baseball
or softball, and persons who played tennis, and those who picnicked also declined during the
15-year period. The percentage who reported participation in waterskiing declined from 14.5%
in 1990 to only 6.1% in 2005, however during this time period the percentage that enjoyed
jetskiing increased by a similar amount, from 3.9% in 1990 to 11.8% in 2005.
While the percentage of the population participating in an activity provides one measure of
recreational activity in the State, a more complete picture emerges upon examining the number
of times those who participate take part in an activity and where such participation takes place.
Frequency of participation has a significant impact on resource needs. Overall demand for an
activity in which a large percentage of the population participates, but does so only once or
twice, may be less than that for an activity in which fewer people are involved, but in which
those who participate do so frequently.
Table 16. Statewide Recreation Participation Trends
Percent Participating by Year
2005
1999
1994
1990
Recreational Activity
1. Walking for pleasure or exercise ...........................
83.2
82.8
80.2
80.5
2. Attending outdoor sporting events..........................
3. Beach swimming/sunbathing..................................
4. Driving for pleasure................................................
63.4
62.5
58.2
62.1
63.1
61.9
60.6
59.5
59.6
64.2
59.3
63.9
68
Table 16. Statewide Recreation Participation Trends, Continued
Recreational Activity
Percent Participating by Year
2005
1999
1994
1990
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
26.1*
23.5
23.4*
23.1
21.1
20.3
20.2
19.0*
18.2
17.2
14.3
13.6
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
Weights or exercise machines ...............................
Picnicking ..............................................................
Pool swimming ......................................................
Visiting historical sites ..........................................
Bicycling ................................................................
Visiting a museum ..................................................
Freshwater fishing .................................................
Visiting an unusual natural feature .........................
Playing basketball ..................................................
Visiting a zoo .........................................................
Motorboating ..........................................................
Jogging/running......................................................
Watching wildlife ..................................................
Lake/river swimming..............................................
Playing football or soccer .......................................
Off-road vehicle riding ...........................................
Playing baseball or softball.....................................
Camping ................................................................
Golf ........................................................................
Guided nature trail/study ........................................
Bird watching ........................................................
Saltwater fishing ....................................................
Hiking ....................................................................
Playing volleyball ..................................................
Playing tennis ........................................................
Hunting ..................................................................
Other shooting sports .............................................
Jetskiing .................................................................
Attending an auto race ...........................................
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure .........................
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting ...................................
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating .........
Horseback riding ....................................................
Waterskiing ............................................................
Rock climbing, rappelling .....................................
Sailing ....................................................................
Geocaching or orienteering ...................................
Hunting dog field trials ..........................................
In-line hockey.........................................................
52.5
55.7
56.4
51.4
38.8
40.2
38.0
28.5
36.5
38.3
33.0
25.2
36.5
30.5
22.8*
19.1
26.9*
24.7
19.3
24.5
35.2
18.1*
18.9
22.1
14.6
14.4
10.4
11.1
17.9
--8.1
13.1
8.0
8.4
3.9
3.4
--2.5
0.9
48.9
57.7
53.6
48.7
40.1
36.7
40.0
28.4
39.4
39.4
32.8
30.8
--30.9
16.9
13.5
33.5
20.6
17.3
19.2
16.5
17.1
16.8
27.9
18.8
14.4
12.1
6.1
13.7
--7.5
13.0
10.0
14.1
3.9
7.6
--1.5
---
43.2
60.5
57.5
46.8
43.3
37.7
38.6
31.1
38.9
36.1
29.8
31.5
--29.2
26.9
18.5
33.5
21.2
15.9
20.1
18.0
17.2
13.5
32.7
24.3
16.0
12.0
3.9
----6.9
--9.6
14.5
--5.3
--2.1
---
* In these surveys separate questions were asked for baseball, softball, football, soccer, saltwater fishing, and
shrimping or shellfishing. For comparability with previous surveys, baseball and softball, football and soccer,
and saltwater fishing and shrimping or shellfishing were combined in this table.
Table 17 profiles the average number of times that respondents participated in specific
recreational activities. This data presents a somewhat different picture of recreational activity
in South Carolina than mere activity participation. When the frequency of participation is
69
considered, walking for pleasure or exercise remains the activity with the highest level of
participation. By this measure, working out with weights or exercise machines is the second
most popular activity, followed by driving for pleasure, jogging or running, bird watching,
bicycling, and watching wildlife. Not surprisingly, the activities in which people participate
relatively frequently tend to be more "routine" types of activities that generally do not require
an extensive amount of travel or special equipment and are more easily incorporated into a
daily routine. For instance, jogging and running can occur in one’s own neighborhood with no
special preparation or travel necessary.
Conversely, there are a number of activities in which a comparatively large percentage of the
population participates, but for which overall demand is less when the frequency of
participation is taken into account. As in previous years, such activities include visiting a zoo,
an unusual natural feature, or a museum. These activities are relatively distinctive, and are not
readily incorporated into an individual's daily schedule or routine. As a result, such activities
are typically participated in only a few times a year.
Table 17. Average Recreation Participation per SC Resident by Activity
Recreational Activity
1. Walking for pleasure or exercise .......................
2. Weights or exercise machines ............................
3. Driving for pleasure ...........................................
4. Jogging/running .................................................
5. Bird watching .....................................................
6. Bicycling ............................................................
7. Watching wildlife ..............................................
8. Attending outdoor sporting events .....................
9. Pool swimming ..................................................
10. Playing basketball ..............................................
11. Beach swimming/sunbathing .............................
12. Motorboating .....................................................
13. Driving a motorcycle .........................................
14. Freshwater fishing .............................................
15. Off-road vehicle riding ......................................
16. Playing football or soccer ..................................
17. Golf ....................................................................
18. Playing baseball or softball ................................
19. Lake/river swimming .........................................
20. Visiting historical sites ......................................
21. Playing volleyball ..............................................
22. Picnicking ..........................................................
23. Hunting ..............................................................
24. Playing tennis .....................................................
25. Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating ....
26. Saltwater fishing ................................................
70
Number of Times Participated*
2005
1999
1994
1990
83.20 106.61 67.05
75.51
44.40
42.72
30.17
25.60
36.90
44.66
26.00
18.82
23.03
19.95
14.70
15.75
16.49
63.27
11.63
18.42
13.39
19.50
15.73
13.79
13.05
22.74
--------9.56
11.22
10.18
10.79
8.88
7.47
9.51
12.23
8.78
12.47
12.95
12.63
6.95
6.74
5.89
5.83
5.62
5.90
6.98
6.27
5.06
------------4.60
6.00
7.56
5.40
4.02
3.13
3.00
4.39
3.95
3.11
2.39
5.62
3.77
3.48
4.42
4.17
3.39
3.67
5.65
4.27
3.32
3.10
3.77
3.97
2.59
2.94
2.77
2.53
2.17
2.07
3.99
4.35
2.00
2.50
2.60
3.44
1.69
2.36
3.17
2.04
1.55
1.61
2.64
4.37
1.53
1.55
1.79
----1.34
1.02
1.55
1.53
Table 17. Average Recreation Participation per SC Resident by Activity, Continued
Recreational Activity
27. Visiting a museum .............................................
28. Camping .............................................................
29. Other shooting sports .........................................
30. Visiting an unusual natural feature ....................
31. Horseback riding ................................................
32. Hiking ................................................................
33. Jetskiing .............................................................
34. Visiting a zoo .....................................................
35. Waterskiing ........................................................
36. Guided nature trail/study ...................................
37. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting ...............................
38. Attending an auto race .......................................
39. Geocaching/orienteering ....................................
40. Rock climbing, rappelling .................................
41. Shellfishing/shrimping .......................................
42. In-line hockey ....................................................
43. Hunting dog field trials ......................................
44. Sailing ................................................................
Number of Times Participated*
2005
1999
1994
1990
1.29
1.08
1.05
1.25
1.25
1.25
1.22
0.97
1.25
1.06
1.71
1.07
1.23
0.89
1.01
1.14
1.14
0.94
1.56
1.56
1.10
0.97
1.84
0.89
1.07
1.00
0.49
0.54
0.79
0.76
0.97
0.76
0.70
0.63
1.66
1.80
0.69
1.24
0.93
0.58
0.64
0.42
0.46
0.24
0.47
0.76
0.99
----0.41
------------0.40
0.27
0.56
----0.39
0.54
--------0.36
0.12
--------0.19
0.22
0.08
0.20
0.15
0.22
0.36
0.12
* Figures shown represent the average number of times in which the entire sample participated
in these activities.
Actual estimates of the number of times South Carolinians participate in activities, which may
be considered trips, are provided in Table 18. Although the overall percentage of participation
may have decreased, several activities such as playing baseball, softball or tennis have posted
increases in the number of times participated. This may be due to “avid” participants who are
participating more often or may just be a product of population increase. It shows the potential
impact to facilities, especially the more popular or most advertised facilities. It also provides
some insight about possible crowding or loss of experience if most of the activities happen on
weekends/holidays or at a few specific sites.
Table 18. Total Participation in Recreational Activities by
South Carolinians Age 12 and Older
Recreational Activity
1. Walking for pleasure or exercise ......................
2. Weights or exercise machines ..........................
3. Driving for pleasure .........................................
4. Jogging/running ...............................................
5. Bird watching ...................................................
6. Bicycling ..........................................................
7. Watching wildlife .............................................
8. Attending outdoor sporting events ...................
71
Estimated Participation (trips) by Year
2005
1999
1994
293,867,059 341,418, 525 205,991,010
156,823,286 136,810,800
92,688,274
130,332,866 143,023,650
79,877,200
81,343,250
63,889,875
45,161,340
58,243,603 202,622,175
35,729,686
47,294,230
62,448,750
48,325,706
46,093,331
72,824,850
-----33,766,455
35,932,050
31,274,996
Table 18. Total Participation in Recreational Activities by
South Carolinians Age 12 and Older, Continued
Recreational Activity
9. Pool swimming ................................................
10. Playing basketball ............................................
11. Beach swimming/sunbathing ...........................
12. Motorboating ....................................................
13. Driving a motorcycle for pleasure ....................
14. Freshwater fishing ............................................
15. Off-road vehicle riding .....................................
16. Playing football or soccer .................................
17. Golf ..................................................................
18. Playing baseball or softball ..............................
19. Lake/river swimming .......................................
20. Visiting historical sites .....................................
21. Playing volleyball ............................................
22. Picnicking .........................................................
23. Hunting .............................................................
24. Playing tennis ...................................................
25. Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
26. Saltwater fishing ..............................................
27. Visiting a museum ...........................................
28. Camping ...........................................................
29. Other shooting sports .......................................
30. Visiting an unusual natural feature ..................
31. Horseback riding ..............................................
32. Hiking ...............................................................
33. Jetskiing ...........................................................
34. Visiting a zoo ...................................................
35. Waterskiing ......................................................
36. Guided nature trail/study ..................................
37. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting .............................
38. Attending an auto race .....................................
39. Geocaching/orienteering ..................................
40. Rock climbing, rappelling ................................
41. In-line hockey ..................................................
42. Hunting dog field trials ....................................
43. Sailing ..............................................................
Estimated Participation (trips) by Year
2005
1999
1994
31,364,657
23,922,675
29,216,622
31,011,452
39,935,175
39,784,990
24,547,789
21,584,850
18,095,258
19,850,155
18,894,750
21,443,956
17,872,203
----------16,247,458
19,215,000
23,225,832
14,198,865
10,023,825
9,216,600
13,951,621
9,959,775
7,342,558
13,315,851
11,144,700
13,579,124
11,973,670
11,753,175
17,357,930
11,726,426
9,927,750
11,582,194
9,148,025
9,415,350
8,509,994
7,664,562
6,629,175
12,258,078
7,064,112
8,006,250
7,987,720
5,969,175
7,557,900
9,738,874
5,474,687
5,156,025
8,110,608
5,404,046
4,963,875
5,499,238
4,732,955
3,266,550
4,761,910
4,556,352
3,458,700
3,225,810
4,415,070
4,003,125
3,748,084
4,415,070
3,394,650
5,253,462
4,344,429
2,850,225
3,102,922
4,026,544
3,010,350
4,792,632
3,885,262
3,106,425
5,652,848
3,779,300
3,202,500
1,505,378
2,790,324
2,433,900
2,980,034
2,472,439
2,017,575
5,099,852
2,437,119
3,971,100
2,857,146
2,260,516
1,345,050
1,413,212
1,660,066
2,433,900
3,041,478
1,448,143
----------1,412,822
864,675
1,720,432
1,271,540
384,300
-----671,091
704,550
245,776
529,808
704,550
1,105,992
Another consideration in assessing recreational needs in South Carolina is the extent to which
participation in these activities takes place within the State. For a number of the items of
interest in this survey, those who had participated were asked if their most recent participation
took place within South Carolina. There is significant variation in the extent to which these
72
activities are pursued within the State. While a majority of participation occurs in South
Carolina, the in-state percentage ranges from 95% for freshwater fishing to 58.9% for hiking.
In addition to bird watching, more than 90% of the participation in football, bicycling, tennis,
baseball, golf, shellfishing or shrimping, and pool swimming occurs within the State.
Additional activities for which less than 70% of the participation takes place in South Carolina
include canoeing, kayaking or rafting, attending an auto race, and horseback riding.
a. Group Differences in Participation
Previous research reveals significant differences in outdoor recreation participation across
different demographic groups – particularly by age, gender, and income. As in previous
recreation surveys, the largest differences in recreation participation are across age groups
(Table 19). The most frequent differences result from greater participation among younger
persons. However, other distinctions are a product of lower levels of participation among those
aged 65 or older. In some cases it is the middle age groups who show the highest level of
participation.
Table 19. Statewide Recreation Participation by Age Group, 2005
Activity
1. Walking for pleasure or exercise ........................
2. Attending outdoor sporting events .....................
3. Beach swimming/sunbathing ..............................
4. Driving for pleasure ............................................
5. Weights or exercise machines ............................
6. Picnicking ...........................................................
7. Pool swimming ...................................................
8. Visiting historical sites .......................................
9. Bicycling .............................................................
10. Visiting a museum ..............................................
11. Freshwater fishing ..............................................
12. Visiting an unusual natural feature .....................
13. Playing basketball ...............................................
14. Visiting a zoo ......................................................
15. Motorboating ......................................................
16. Jogging/running ..................................................
17. Watching wildlife ...............................................
18. Lake/river swimming ..........................................
19. Off-road vehicle riding .......................................
20. Camping .............................................................
21. Playing football ..................................................
22. Golf .....................................................................
23. Guided nature trail/study ....................................
24. Bird watching .....................................................
25. Hiking .................................................................
73
12-17
84.4
82.3
72.0
43.3
83.7
40.4
82.9
52.5
83.1
33.1
41.0
24.9
83.7
36.3
30.2
84.3
26.2
44.0
42.9
29.7
67.2
17.0
26.7
13.2
13.3
Age Group
18-29
30-45
78.1
85.7
74.5
68.0
76.0
68.1
60.7
60.6
72.8
59.6
50.0
62.7
69.7
60.6
47.0
58.9
45.5
50.5
29.5
44.2
45.2
38.3
29.5
40.7
46.8
39.1
37.9
46.4
36.5
36.4
62.1
31.4
24.5
36.4
40.0
28.8
41.0
20.4
30.0
26.1
43.6
19.6
29.0
21.9
18.1
23.7
11.4
17.2
18.6
22.8
46-64
85.9
58.4
60.6
60.3
48.8
55.5
43.7
56.7
34.4
43.3
41.1
40.7
20.0
28.7
37.0
15.4
42.6
24.1
16.3
21.9
6.1
17.3
21.7
26.9
20.2
65+
79.8
40.5
35.5
56.6
30.5
45.4
20.9
41.2
15.5
35.3
21.3
28.1
6.4
15.2
24.1
4.4
28.0
9.1
7.5
8.1
2.0
19.6
13.3
29.8
11.2
Table 19. Statewide Recreation Participation by Age Group, 2005, Continued
Activity
26. Playing volleyball ...............................................
27. Saltwater fishing .................................................
28. Playing baseball ..................................................
29. Playing tennis .....................................................
30. Hunting ...............................................................
31. Playing softball ...................................................
32. Other shooting sports ..........................................
33. Jetskiing ..............................................................
34. Attending an auto race ........................................
35. Driving a motorcycle ..........................................
36. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting ................................
37. Skateboarding,in-line skating, roller skating ......
38. Horseback riding .................................................
39. Playing soccer .....................................................
40. Shellfishing/Shrimping .......................................
41. Waterskiing .........................................................
42. Rock climbing, rappelling ..................................
43. Sailing .................................................................
44. Geocaching/orienteering .....................................
45. Hunting dog field trials .......................................
46. In-line hockey .....................................................
12-17
45.9
17.6
26.2
23.5
22.0
18.2
9.9
20.9
9.4
7.7
14.9
41.4
10.5
21.9
9.8
9.9
13.3
1.7
0.6
3.9
2.8
Age Group
18-29
30-45
23.6
17.5
19.8
16.8
30.5
15.3
23.1
13.7
21.2
11.5
21.4
17.5
20.8
12.9
20.0
12.3
22.0
10.5
23.8
11.7
16.9
9.6
15.0
8.9
17.4
10.1
13.1
6.4
8.3
7.7
12.1
5.0
9.0
8.9
3.6
2.2
3.3
3.3
5.0
1.2
4.3
0.3
46-64
11.0
17.2
8.9
10.2
13.9
8.0
10.6
8.1
8.3
8.3
10.0
2.6
6.3
3.3
7.4
4.1
1.5
3.1
2.2
1.5
0.0
65+
1.7
9.8
4.4
4.1
4.4
2.7
3.4
0.7
4.0
0.3
3.4
0.7
0.7
0.7
3.7
0.7
0.7
2.4
1.4
1.0
0.0
Physically active sports, such as jogging or running, playing basketball, football, soccer, or
volleyball, working out with weights or exercise machines and pool swimming have the highest
participation rates among residents aged 12-to-17. Participation in these active sports declines
as age increases. The most frequently observed pattern is for participation to be highest in the
12-to-17 and 18-to-29 age groups, and then to decline across the three older groups.
Participation levels for activities among persons in these younger age groups were significantly
higher than those in older age groups for beach swimming or sun bathing, off-road vehicle
riding, lake or river swimming; playing baseball, softball, or tennis; canoeing, kayaking, or
rafting; jet-skiing; waterskiing; hunting; hunting dog field trials; attending an auto race; and inline hockey.
Age group differences that were attributable to a much higher level of participation among the
youngest age group were found for bicycling and skateboarding, in-line skating, and roller
skating. Differences that were the result of a lower participation rate among those 65 and older
relative to other groups were evident for freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, visiting historical
sites, motor boating, and camping.
In general, persons in younger age groups exhibit higher participation levels in recreational
activities. This is particularly true for vigorous physical activities such as jogging or running,
playing basketball, football, soccer, or volleyball, or working out with weights or exercise
74
machines. However, there are activities for which those in the middle age categories are more
likely to participate and one activity – bird watching – for which persons age 65 and older show
the highest level of participation.
As in previous surveys, significant differences were evident in the participation patterns of men
and women (Table 20). The types of activities in which men were more likely than women to
participate in traditional outdoor sports such as fresh and saltwater fishing, hunting, shellfishing
and shrimping, other shooting sports, and hunting dog field trials. Men were also much more
likely than women to have been camping, motorboating, waterskiing, jetskiing, and lake or
river swimming in the past twelve months. A significantly higher percentage of men than
women also have participated in physically active group sports, such as basketball, baseball,
and football. In addition, a higher percentage of men engaged in a number of "individual"
recreational activities, such as jogging or running, off-road vehicle riding, and rock climbing or
rappelling. A larger percentage of men than women attended an auto race or other outdoor
sporting events.
Women are generally more likely to engage in more passive leisure-time activities, such as
visiting a zoo, museum, or historical site; picnicking; bird watching; or walking for pleasure or
on a guided nature trail. More physically active recreational activities in which a higher
percentage of women than men participated include playing volleyball; skateboarding, in-line
skating, or roller skating; horseback riding; and driving for pleasure.
Table 20. Statewide Recreation Participation by Gender, 2005
Recreational Activity
1. Walking for pleasure or exercise ...................................
2. Attending outdoor sporting events .................................
3. Beach swimming/sunbathing .........................................
4. Driving for pleasure .......................................................
5. Weights or exercise machines .......................................
6. Picnicking ......................................................................
7. Pool swimming ..............................................................
8. Visiting historical sites ..................................................
9. Bicycling ........................................................................
10. Visiting a museum .........................................................
11. Freshwater fishing .........................................................
12. Visiting an unusual natural feature ................................
13. Playing basketball ..........................................................
14. Visiting a zoo .................................................................
15. Motorboating .................................................................
16. Jogging/running .............................................................
17. Watching wildlife ..........................................................
18. Lake/river swimming .....................................................
19. Off-road vehicle riding ..................................................
20. Camping .........................................................................
21. Playing football ..............................................................
75
Men
77.0
67.0
61.2
55.2
57.8
45.6
51.5
47.9
43.4
31.1
51.8
33.1
41.0
28.9
38.2
40.6
31.6
32.3
29.8
27.1
21.7
Women
89.1
60.1
63.7
61.1
56.4
60.7
54.8
56.0
42.4
45.3
23.4
36.3
28.4
39.0
30.3
27.7
35.1
23.9
17.6
19.2
13.7
Table 20. Statewide Recreation Participation by Gender, 2005, Continued
Recreational Activity
22. Golf ................................................................................
23. Guided nature trail/study ...............................................
24. Bird watching ................................................................
25. Hiking ............................................................................
26. Playing volleyball ..........................................................
27. Saltwater fishing ............................................................
28. Playing baseball .............................................................
29. Playing tennis ................................................................
30. Hunting ..........................................................................
31. Playing softball ..............................................................
32. Other shooting sports .....................................................
33. Jetskiing .........................................................................
34. Attending an auto race ...................................................
35. Driving a motorcycle .....................................................
36. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting ...........................................
37. Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating ................
38. Horseback riding ............................................................
39. Playing soccer ................................................................
40. Shellfishing/shrimping ...................................................
41. Waterskiing ....................................................................
42. Rock climbing, rappelling .............................................
43. Sailing ............................................................................
44. Geocaching/orienteering ................................................
45. Hunting dog field trials ..................................................
46. In-line hockey ................................................................
Men
32.1
15.8
16.1
20.0
14.6
22.1
19.9
12.4
24.0
12.6
18.4
13.8
14.4
14.1
11.6
7.7
7.0
8.0
8.8
8.0
8.7
2.3
4.3
3.8
2.0
Women
10.8
24.7
24.0
16.5
19.7
10.7
12.1
16.1
3.8
14.4
5.9
9.9
7.9
8.3
9.8
12.3
11.0
7.2
5.5
4.3
3.6
3.2
0.8
0.8
0.6
Participation and preference differences by respondent’s family income were also significant
for a number of recreational activities (Table 21). Among the largest differences were the
percentages of each group that reported going to the beach to swim or sunbathe, which ranged
from 42.6% among those with family incomes under $20,000 to 85.7% among those with
family incomes of $75,000 or higher. Relatively large differences were also evident for
activities such as visiting historic sites, golf, motorboating, visiting a zoo and swimming in a
pool.
Activities for which income differences were not significant tended to be fairly standard, dayto-day activities such as walking for pleasure or exercise, jogging or running; bird watching; or
driving a motorcycle for pleasure; team sports that are relatively inexpensive such as
basketball, volleyball, football, baseball, softball, or soccer; or activities in which only a small
percentage of the population participates, such as hunting dog field trials, sailing, and
shellfishing or shrimping.
Although the pattern is not evident across all activities, the general tendency is for South
Carolinians from higher income families to participate in the surveyed recreational activities at
76
a higher rate than persons with lower incomes. In general, higher incomes provide individuals
the means and opportunity to participate in a variety of leisure-time activities.
Table 21. Statewide Recreation Participation by Family Income, 2005
Activity
1. Walking for pleasure or exercise ........
2. Attending outdoor sporting events ......
3. Beach swimming/sunbathing ..............
4. Driving for pleasure ............................
5. Weights or exercise machines .............
6. Picnicking ...........................................
7. Pool swimming ...................................
8. Visiting historical sites ........................
9. Bicycling .............................................
10. Visiting a museum ..............................
11. Freshwater fishing ...............................
12. Visiting an unusual natural feature .....
13. Playing basketball ...............................
14. Visiting a zoo ......................................
15. Motorboating ......................................
16. Jogging/running ..................................
17. Watching wildlife ...............................
18. Lake/river swimming ..........................
19. Off-road vehicle riding .......................
20. Camping ..............................................
21. Playing football ...................................
22. Golf .....................................................
23. Guided nature trail/study ....................
24. Bird watching ......................................
25. Hiking .................................................
26. Playing volleyball ...............................
27. Saltwater fishing .................................
28. Playing baseball ..................................
29. Playing tennis ......................................
30. Hunting ...............................................
31. Playing softball ...................................
32. Other shooting sports ..........................
33. Jetskiing ..............................................
34. Attending an auto race ........................
35. Driving a motorcycle ..........................
36. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting ................
37. Skateboarding, in-line skating, ............
roller skating
Under
$20,000
80.7
57.5
42.6
53.6
47.3
45.3
41.7
25.7
36.4
21.5
38.2
19.8
37.2
25.7
19.8
34.3
26.5
18.0
27.5
17.5
26.0
11.8
15.7
16.3
8.6
15.6
11.5
20.1
13.9
11.8
11.3
6.5
1.8
5.3
9.7
4.4
10.9
77
Family Income Level
$20,000- $35,000- $50,00034,999
49,999
74,999 $75,000+
84.1
86.8
87.0
85.2
61.8
62.1
74.2
73.9
56.9
58.5
78.5
85.7
60.0
68.9
62.3
57.3
57.5
60.8
60.1
67.6
52.3
50.0
59.7
63.4
47.2
56.6
66.9
63.5
44.4
58.5
60.9
73.6
39.7
46.6
44.2
48.7
35.0
45.7
44.9
53.0
32.7
35.0
45.9
43.6
30.1
41.6
39.1
47.7
32.4
36.7
34.4
35.4
32.0
33.8
39.9
43.2
25.9
27.1
46.4
51.0
27.7
34.4
34.0
39.3
32.1
35.4
35.2
40.8
24.2
25.1
38.1
37.8
18.3
28.1
22.4
25.7
16.0
24.1
31.7
31.4
21.6
23.8
27.5
16.7
13.1
18.0
29.4
35.4
20.9
19.9
22.9
26.6
22.6
24.4
15.6
21.7
12.4
21.9
19.9
29.0
19.8
20.9
16.6
16.0
9.5
12.2
26.1
23.0
14.8
16.1
21.8
12.1
10.8
14.8
12.9
17.9
8.5
12.2
13.9
23.2
15.7
18.7
16.9
12.1
11.8
13.2
16.2
15.3
7.8
10.6
20.1
20.0
12.1
11.0
19.5
9.9
12.7
13.2
14.2
12.1
4.9
6.1
17.2
19.1
9.8
7.1
8.3
11.8
Table 21. Statewide Recreation Participation by Family Income, 2005, Continued
Activity
38. Horseback riding .................................
39. Playing soccer .....................................
40. Shellfishing/shrimping ........................
41. Waterskiing .........................................
42. Rock climbing, rappelling ...................
43. Sailing .................................................
44. Geocaching/orienteering ....................
45. Hunting dog field trials ......................
46. In-line hockey ....................................
Under
$20,000
9.8
5.0
5.3
1.5
3.2
0.9
2.4
0.9
0.9
Family Income Level
$20,000- $35,000- $50,00034,999
49,999
74,999 $75,000+
9.2
9.6
10.6
10.2
5.2
8.0
8.3
8.0
4.9
6.4
10.2
9.7
3.9
5.1
10.6
9.7
2.3
8.0
4.3
13.3
2.0
2.3
3.6
3.4
0.7
3.2
1.3
5.8
1.0
3.5
3.6
2.2
0.7
0.3
3.6
1.4
Data also demonstrated differing participation levels for a number of these activities between
the races (Table 22). Some of the largest and most consistent racial differences involve waterrelated activities, with a significantly higher percentage of whites than blacks participating.
Differences are particularly evident for activities such as motorboating; swimming in a lake or
river; going to the beach to swim or sunbathe; freshwater fishing; pool swimming; jetskiing;
waterskiing; saltwater fishing; canoeing, kayaking or rafting; and shellfishing or shrimping.
Whites were also more likely than blacks to participate in traditional outdoor recreational
activities such as camping, hiking, hunting, other shooting sports, and participating in hunting
dog field trials. A higher percentage of whites than blacks also reported visiting historic sites
or an unusual natural feature, bird or wildlife watching, off-road vehicle riding, horseback
riding, playing golf, and attending an auto race.
The activity for which black participation was higher than that of whites and for which the
difference between the races was greatest was playing basketball. A higher percentage of
blacks than whites also reported playing football, volleyball, and softball; bicycling; jogging or
running; and working out with weights or exercise machines. Blacks were also more likely
than whites to have taken a drive for pleasure in the past 12 months.
Table 22. Statewide Recreation Participation by Race, 2005
Activity
1. Walking for pleasure or exercise ................................
2. Attending outdoor sporting events .............................
3. Beach swimming/sunbathing .....................................
4. Driving for pleasure ...................................................
5. Weights or exercise machines ....................................
6. Picnicking ...................................................................
7. Pool swimming ...........................................................
8. Visiting historical sites ...............................................
9. Bicycling ....................................................................
10. Visiting a museum ......................................................
78
Black
85.5
65.5
54.0
62.7
63.5
49.7
39.1
42.0
53.0
36.8
Race
White
82.6
63.4
66.7
56.2
54.3
55.4
60.0
57.4
38.8
39.8
Table 22. Statewide Recreation Participation by Race, 2005, Continued
Activity
11. Freshwater fishing ......................................................
12. Visiting an unusual natural feature .............................
13. Playing basketball ......................................................
14. Visiting a zoo .............................................................
15. Motorboating ..............................................................
16. Jogging/running ..........................................................
17. Watching wildlife .......................................................
18. Lake/river swimming .................................................
19. Off-road vehicle riding ...............................................
20. Camping .....................................................................
21. Playing football ..........................................................
22. Golf .............................................................................
23. Guided nature trail/study ............................................
24. Bird watching .............................................................
25. Hiking .........................................................................
26. Playing volleyball .......................................................
27. Saltwater fishing .........................................................
28. Playing baseball ..........................................................
29. Playing tennis .............................................................
30. Hunting .......................................................................
31. Playing softball ...........................................................
32. Other shooting sports .................................................
33. Jetskiing ......................................................................
34. Attending an auto race ................................................
35. Driving a motorcycle ..................................................
36. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting .......................................
37. Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating .............
38. Horseback riding ........................................................
39. Playing soccer ............................................................
40. Shellfishing/shrimping ...............................................
41. Waterskiing ................................................................
42. Rock climbing, rappelling ..........................................
43. Sailing .........................................................................
44. Geocaching/orienteering ............................................
45. Hunting dog field trials ...............................................
46. In-line hockey .............................................................
Race
Black
White
33.2
39.7
17.8
42.1
52.7
27.0
32.2
35.2
11.5
44.2
43.4
30.2
18.7
39.7
10.3
36.0
18.7
25.5
7.0
30.4
26.3
20.9
8.3
27.0
21.0
20.3
13.2
23.5
4.7
24.4
21.8
14.9
9.2
19.6
18.5
15.2
11.7
15.1
5.2
17.8
20.6
10.8
4.2
15.5
4.5
14.8
7.8
13.0
9.0
12.0
3.2
13.8
8.2
10.7
4.2
11.2
7.5
7.3
3.5
8.7
0.3
8.6
5.7
6.2
2.2
2.8
1.8
2.8
0.8
2.9
0.7
1.5
In addition to differences attributable to gender, age, income and race, there were also regional
differences among State residents evident in both the types of recreational activities in which
they participated and in their overall level of participation. The effect of proximity of different
types of recreational resources is evident in these results. For example, while a fairly high
79
percentage of the population in all ten regions had been to the beach to swim or sunbathe
(62.5%), this percentage was highest in the coastal Lowcountry (73.3%), Waccamaw (69.6%)
and Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester (68.4%) regions and lowest in the Upper Savannah and
Appalachian regions. Similarly, there were large regional variations in the percentage of
residents who had visited a zoo in the past twelve months. The State's largest zoo, Riverbanks
Zoo, is located in the Central Midlands region. Nearly two-thirds (60.4%) of respondents from
the Central Midlands region reported visiting a zoo within the last year. Among the nine
regions, the second highest percentage for zoo visitation was 36.6% for the Lower Savannah
region, with residents from the Lowcountry region having the lowest percentage of
participation at only 15.2%. Other examples are saltwater fishing in which 30.1% of
Lowcountry Planning District residents participated – nearly twice the rate of residents
statewide at 16.2%. Lowcountry residents also participated in shellfishing and shrimping at a
rate of 30.3% – more than four times the 7.1% rate of residents statewide.
When examining overall regional participation patterns, there are two urbanized regions in
which a higher percentage of residents participate in a broad range of recreational and leisuretime activities and two rural regions in which overall participation rates are generally lower.
The more urbanized Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester and Central Midlands Regions had
generally higher participation, while residents of the more rural Lower Savannah and Pee Dee
regions tended to participate at slightly lower levels. Appendix A provides additional
information about the recreational activities of residents by regional planning district as
compared to residents statewide.
b. Participation Location
The location where recreational activities occur is also an important consideration in
determining recreational participation needs in the State. In this survey, respondents who had
taken part in a number of these activities in the past 12 months were asked where they last
participated in that activity. These activities can be divided into three types: 1) those for which
the overwhelming majority of participation takes place in the individual’s home region; 2)
those for which a majority of the participation occurs in the home region, but for which a
significant percentage also takes place in another area; and 3) those for which more than half of
the participation takes place outside of the respondent’s home region. The first type of
activities, for which more than 80% of participation occurs in the region close to the
respondent’s home, are those day-to-day recreational activities that can take place in most any
community. These activities include playing football, baseball, tennis, soccer, softball,
bicycling, and playing golf.
For the second set of activities, a majority of participation occurs in the respondent’s home
district, but the activities begin to involve or require a special resource or facility type – such as
freshwater fishing, motorboating, hunting, or walking on a guided nature trail. Activities in
which 50% or less of the participation occurs in the respondent’s home region fall into one of
two categories: 1) those that can only take place in certain geographic areas; and 2) those that
may take place over a more extended period of time. Shellfishing or shrimping, saltwater
fishing, and beach swimming or sunbathing can only take place in certain coastal environs,
making the percentage of these activities that occur outside of a respondent’s home area
80
naturally greater than that for activities in which participation can take place anywhere in the
State. Hiking, camping, or float trips are often extended activities that are more likely to take
place over a period of several days and to involve travel away from home. A relatively high
percentage of these outdoor activities, together with walking a guided nature trail, visiting
historical sites, and horseback riding, occur outside of South Carolina.
c. Patterns Of Participation
The level of participation in individual recreational activities has remained generally stable
over time. The overall pattern of taking part in these various activities has also reflected a
consistent trend across the survey periods. As in previous surveys, the participation patterns in
outdoor recreational activities in South Carolina form four distinct activity clusters: 1)
physically active; 2) less vigorous participation; 3) water sports; and 4) outdoor activities. In
terms of physically active recreation, respondents who had played basketball in the past twelve
months also tended to be involved in other more active forms of recreation such as playing
football, soccer, baseball, softball, volleyball, or tennis, and jogging or running.
Persons whose participation in recreational activities can be characterized as physically active
were more likely to have been involved in bicycling, working out with weights or exercise
machines, skateboarding, in-line skating, or roller skating, and swimming in an outdoor pool,
and were also more likely to have attended an outdoor sporting event. Participation in less
vigorous activities such as visiting an historic site also correlated with similar activities such as
visiting a museum, visiting an unusual natural feature or a zoo, bird watching, wildlife
watching, picnicking, walking for pleasure or exercise, and driving for pleasure.
Individuals who engage in any water-related activities are also more likely to participate in
other similar activities including motorboating, waterskiing, jetskiing, canoeing or rafting,
shellfishing or shrimping, saltwater fishing, beach swimming or sunbathing, and lake or river
swimming. Similarly, those who enjoy traditional outdoor activities such as hunting or other
shooting sports also tended to participate in other outdoor activities like camping, horseback
riding, freshwater fishing, off-road vehicle riding, and hunting dog field trials.
d. Seasonal Preference
The seasonal preference of various types of recreational activities among South Carolinians
continues, as evidenced in the most recent survey in which preferences differed only slightly
from prior surveys. As in previous years, “playing ball” was the preferred outdoor recreational
activity in both the spring/summer with 21% participation. However, “walking for pleasure”
replaced “playing ball” (20.7%) in 2005 as the preferred fall or winter activity with 23.3%
participation. The percentage of persons who cited walking as their preferred spring or summer
activity increased from only 6.3% in 1999 to 14.6% in 2005. The latest survey reveals that the
effect of season on recreational preferences is significant. Swimming is the second preferred
activity in the spring/summer (11.1%), but the percentage of residents naming this as their
favorite fall/winter activity drops significantly to 1.2%. Similar declines between spring or
summer and fall or winter preferences are found for fishing and motorboating. Activities that
are more likely to be preferred in the fall/winter than in the spring/summer include walking for
81
pleasure (23.3% to 14.6%), hunting (6.8% to 1.3%), bicycling (3.5% to 2.8%) and hiking (4.9%
to 2.3%). As expected, no participation in snow skiing or ice skating was indicated in the
spring or summer and jetskiing, waterskiing, or other water sports were not cited as preferred
fall or winter activities.
Age, race, sex, and income were all significantly related to preference for playing ball in all
seasons of the year. Residents under 30 years (particularly between 12 and 17 years of age), as
well as blacks were particularly likely to cite playing ball as their preferred activity in all
seasons, while men and residents from lower income families were slightly more likely than
women and respondents with higher incomes to prefer this activity.
The percentage of respondents that cited walking as their preferred activity was highest among
women and persons aged 65 or older for all seasons. Older people were also more likely to cite
fishing and golf as preferred spring or summer activities, and selected golf as their favored
recreational activity in the fall or winter. A higher percentage of women preferred swimming
as a spring or summer activity, while men preferred playing ball, fishing or golf. A much
higher percentage of white respondents selected golf or fishing as a preferred activity in the
spring or summer and hunting, hiking, or golf as favorite activities in the fall and winter.
Persons with higher incomes were more likely to cite golf or some other type of recreational
activity as their preference in the spring and summer, and selected golf as a preferred activity in
the fall or winter months.
e. Recreation Perceptions
Yet another point of interest in the 2005 Study were public perceptions of recreational
opportunities in the Palmetto State. To assess perceptions, respondents were asked whether
they thought that South Carolina had enough outdoor recreation and leisure-time facilities and
activities for State residents; the type of additional facilities that were most needed; and how
these additional facilities should be provided. As with most of the items examined in the study,
these perceptions displayed remarkable consistency over time.
The percentage of South Carolinians who feel the State has adequate outdoor recreation or
leisure-time facilities and activities was 59.7% in 1984, 60.4% in 1990, 59.8% in 1994, 61.3%
in 1999, and 63.5% in the current 2005 Survey. Residents voiced that a wide range of facilities
and activities are needed and, as in prior years, parks are mentioned most frequently as a
recreational need, followed by swimming facilities, activities for youth, basketball facilities,
bicycle paths and playgrounds.
Moreover, a common concern that continues to surface in the survey data is the need to provide
recreational opportunities for young people. “Activities for youth" and “facilities for youth”
are often mentioned as the State’s greatest recreational need. Many of the specific facility
needs cited – such as playgrounds, recreational centers, and youth centers – are designed
primarily to serve young residents. Those who feel that additional recreation or leisure-time
facilities or activities are necessary in South Carolina believe that all levels of government as
well as business and civic organizations should share responsibility for providing these
facilities.
82
f. Special Populations
Nationally, and especially in the Southeast, meeting the recreational needs of all individuals is a
particular challenge. Consideration must be given to those who may experience barriers to
accessing recreational facilities or programs for a variety of reasons such as financial, cultural,
geographic, and physical. The unique needs of special populations including minorities, older
adults, persons with disabilities, and the economically disadvantaged are examined in greater
detail. It is recognized that the needs of these special populations extend well beyond
recreation and that recreation providers must work closely with other public and private service
providers in transportation, community health, and planning to coordinate efforts to meet the
diverse needs of these population groups.
Additional insight to the needs and issues confronting special populations is warranted in
outdoor recreation planning. Although the discussion that follows can not fully encompass the
complexity of needs and issues encountered by these different groups, it is intended to
encourage awareness and dialogue to address the recreational needs and issues faced by special
populations.
Minorities and Ethnic Populations
South Carolina ranks the 7th highest in the nation – behind the District of Columbia and the
states of Hawaii, Mississippi, Maryland, Louisiana and Georgia – in the overall percentage of
minority population. Caucasians and African-Americans comprise 68.4% and 29.2% of the
State’s population, respectively. The State’s African-American population is more than double
the national percentage, while the State’s percentage of Asian, American Indian, and Hispanic
population currently falls below national averages. However, the racial composition of the
State’s minority population is changing substantially. The US Census reports that South
Carolina’s foreign-born population grew more rapidly (a 47% increase) from 2000 to 2005 than
any other state in the nation. South Carolina posted a 350% increase in Latino residents, from
approximately 30,000 to 135,000 persons, during that same time period, while growth in the
Latino population nationwide was 87%. A 2007 report by The Consortium for Latino
Immigration Studies at the University of South Carolina indicates that the actual number of
Latinos in the State could be at least twice that reported by the Census Bureau, due to the
widely recognized undercount of Latinos in the United States.
Native Americans comprise only 0.36% of the State's total population. 2005 Census estimates
show 15,590 resident Native Americans in South Carolina, an increase of nearly double the
8,049 resident Native Americans in 1990. York County has the highest number with 1,548
Native Americans residents or about 0.8% of the County's population – 9.9% of the Native
Americans in the State. Other counties with notable numbers of Native Americans include
Greenville (981), Charleston (963), Marlboro (961), Horry (882), Richland (881), Spartanburg
(880) and Lexington (854).
The Catawba Nation is the only South Carolina Native American tribe recognized by the State
and the Federal government. The Catawba Reservation is located on approximately 630 acres
along the Catawba River in York County. Other Native American tribes recognized by the
83
State of South Carolina include the Beaver Creek Indians in Aiken County, Pee Dee Indian
Nation of Upper South Carolina in Dillon County, Pee Dee Indian Tribe in Marlboro County,
Santee Indian Organization in Orangeburg and Berkeley counties, and Waccamaw Indian
People in Horry County. In addition, the State has also recognized Native American groups
including the Chaloklowa Chickasaw Indian People; Eastern Cherokee, Southern Iroquois and
United Tribes of SC, Inc.; Natchez Tribe of South Carolina; Pee Indian Tribe of Beaver Creek;
Piedmont American Indian Association; Lower Eastern Cherokee Nation of South Carolina;
and Wassamasaw Tribe of Vernertown Indians.
As evidenced in the 2005 Participation and Preference Study and the 2001 State Survey, the
recreational needs of minorities in South Carolina reveal differences in recreational priorities
and types of activities. For many minorities, access to recreational opportunities heavily
depends on individual proximity to existing facilities and programs, available transportation,
and costs to participate. For instance, African-American respondents to the 2001 Survey
indicated a stronger priority than whites for the acquisition of land for local urban and rural
parks.
Older Adults
Mirroring national trends, South Carolina's older population is increasing. Estimates provided
by the SC Office of Research and Statistics identified 598,550 South Carolinians aged 65 and
older, comprising 14.1% of the State’s total population for 2005. Females make up 51.3% of
the over 65 group. In 1960, only 6.3% of the State's population was 65 and over. This segment
of the population had grown to 9.2% in 1980, 11.3% in 1990 and 12.1% by 2000. Census
Bureau projections indicate older adults will comprise more than one-fifth (22%) of the State's
population by the year 2030.
In 2005, Greenville County had the highest number of older adults with 54,914 individuals,
more than 9% of the State's older adult population. Other counties with more than 30,000 older
adult residents included Charleston County (44,578), Horry County (39,278) and Richland
County (31,475). McCormick County had the highest percentage (22.1%) of older adult
residents, followed by Beaufort and Georgetown Counties (19.2%), Oconee County (18.5%),
and Union County (18.3%).
Living on fixed and often reduced incomes, the elderly are more likely to be poor than any
other age group. In 1999, nearly 14% or 64,688 South Carolinians over the age of 65 had
incomes below the poverty level. The largest number of the over 65 group that have incomes
over the poverty level are located in Greenville (4,524), Charleston (4,461), Spartanburg
(4,111), and Richland (3,554) counties. Among the counties with the highest percentage of
their older populations living below poverty, Lee County had the highest at 27.9%, followed by
Dillon County at 26.6%, Allendale County at 26%, Williamsburg County at 25.9%, and
Bamberg County at 25.8%.
The older population is diverse in racial and ethnic composition, marital status, socioeconomic
status, and living arrangements. Within this group are varying levels of physical performance
and wellness. This diversity within the over 65 group shifts and changes over time as each
84
generation enters retirement. The Planning Advisory Service Report, Planning for an Aging
Society, describes these groups as "cohorts." Cohorts are a "group of people born in a year or
period of time that differentiates them from other groups" and bring with them the value
systems and attitudes shaped by their social, economic, and political experiences. People
retiring in recent decades are more educated, affluent, healthier, and more vigorous than
previous cohorts of retirees. The PAS Report emphasizes that the diversity among older
populations be recognized so that policies can be designed to meet their special needs. The
Report also makes several recommendations for design consideration when planning programs
or facilities that will include older adults. Most of the design recommendations, summarized in
Chart 3, are based on Federal regulations.
Chart 3. Design Recommendations for an Aging Society
Meeting rooms and hallways should be well lighted but have floor surfaces that minimize
glare. Highly polished surfaces are visually confusing and create a hazardous environment.
Reading materials should be produced in clear print with strong contrast between print and
page color. Contrast is best between black and white.
All signs need clear lettering (sans serif), with good contrast such as black ink on a light
background. Whenever possible, signs should be placed at eye level.
Audiovisual programs should employ a narrator with a deep voice.
Hot and cold water faucets should be clearly marked. The combination of poor vision,
reduced sensitivity to pain, and slower reaction time increases the potential for burns if the
hot water flows when cold water is expected (could also reduce water temperature to 120
degrees Fahrenheit or less).
All variations in elevation should be gradual and well marked. Ground surfaces should be
even, where possible, to avoid potential falls.
Handrails should be rounded, easy to grasp, and present on both sides of stairways and
steps.
Public restrooms should be easy to find, clearly marked, and accessible to wheelchairs.
Attention should be given to solving the problem of a spouse helping a wheelchair-using
individual in a public restroom. Unisex, single- stall restrooms can be helpful.
Changes in depth perception indicate that stairs and areas with abrupt changes in elevation
should be clearly marked so that the potential hazard is noticed. Heavily patterned indoor
carpet and brick or aggregate outdoor steps make perception of changes in elevation very
difficult and create a hazard for falls.
To address problems with glare, consider aligning roads, signs, paths, and walkways to
avoid looking directly into the rising or setting sun.
Provide covered exercise or walking tracks.
Source: "Planning for an Aging Society," Planning Advisory Service Report Number 451,
American Planning Association, 1994.
85
To better accommodate the recreational needs of older individuals, recreation providers must
consider the different limitations faced by the older adult population when developing and
promoting appropriate programs and facilities for the older adult population. As adults grow
older, it becomes increasingly important to the individual to remain an active and viable
member of the community. Planning for recreational facilities and programs should take into
consideration the limitations of the aging body. The older adult tends to become isolated as
these limitations preclude them from participation in activities that were once easily accessible.
The PAS Report notes that the body's overall degeneration begins around age 30 with a
detectable loss of hearing. The slow degenerative process continues into age 50 where eyesight
can begin to fail for objects at close range and overall stamina is reduced. By age 60, there is
noticeable trouble discerning tones and distinguishing colors. The eyesight continues to
weaken at age 70 and decreases in muscle strength, agility, and motor control continue.
The 2005 South Carolina Recreation Participation and Preference Study identified the top
recreational activities for older adults. For persons aged 65 and over, outdoor recreation
participation included walking for pleasure or exercise (79.8%), driving for pleasure (56.6%),
picnicking (45.4%), visiting historic sites (41.2%), and attending outdoor sporting events
(40.5%).
Persons with Disabilities
Disabilities can include a wide range of conditions – physical limitations, mental illness, and
serious medical conditions. Included are persons with mental retardation, autism, traumatic
brain injury, spinal cord injury and similar disabilities. A person is considered to have a
disability if he/she has difficulty performing functions such as seeing, hearing, talking,
walking, climbing stairs, lifting and carrying; has difficulty performing activities of daily
living; or has difficulty with social roles such as helping children with homework, working at a
job or doing household chores. Nationally, 28.9% of families (approximately 2 in every 7
families) reported having at least one member with a disability in the 2000 Census.
Data from the 2000 Census reveals that 12.2% (810,857 persons) of South Carolinians aged 5
and over are disabled. Residents aged 65 and older comprise the group with the highest
percentage of disabled persons at 45.8% (213,448 persons). Mental disabilities include
ongoing difficulties related to learning, remembering or concentrating and account for 13.8%
of the disability types statewide. More than 10% of disabilities tallied were sensory disabilities
that include blindness, deafness, or severe vision or hearing impairment. Physical disabilities,
including conditions that substantially limit one or more basic physical activities such as
walking, climbing stairs, reaching, lifting, or carrying, comprise 23.6% of all disabilities
reported in South Carolina.
The South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department helps South Carolinians with
disabilities to prepare for, achieve and maintain competitive employment through a statewide
service delivery system. During Fiscal Year 2005-06, the Department served 43,811 persons
with various disabilities and rehabilitated 8,729 persons. Table 23 provides data on the types of
disabilities affecting persons with disabilities during Fiscal Years (FY) 2001 to 2004.
86
Table 23. Persons with Disabilities Rehabilitated* by the SC Vocational
Rehabilitation Department, Fiscal Years 2001-2004
Type of Disability
Alcohol/Drug Abuse or Dependence
Cardiac/Circulatory System Conditions
Developmental Impairments
Digestive System Disorders
End Stage Renal Disease/Genitourinary
Endocrine Disorders, including Diabetes
Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders
Learning Disorders (not mental retardation)
Mental Illness and Related Disorders
Orthopedic Disabilities/Amputation
Respiratory Diseases
Spinal Cord Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury
Other Physical Conditions
Total
2001
2,675
1,040
475
19
12
383
96
175
2,250
665
98
124
103
984
9,099
2002
2,519
1,092
448
14
16
382
93
188
2,130
673
94
107
83
971
8,810
2003
2,418
1,075
451
10
13
439
115
251
2,041
712
91
70
73
1,132
8,891
2004
2,487
1,100
384
8
22
412
99
384
2,105
612
83
36
61
1,163
8,956
* SCVRD considers a person to be rehabilitated only when engaged in gainful employment.
Source: SC Office of Research and Statistics, 2006 Statistical Abstract.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law in 1990. Title III of the ADA
guarantees disabled persons with the "full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities,
privileges, advantages or accommodations" of any public facilities.
To eliminate
discrimination against the disabled, the ADA requires public accommodations to provide equal
opportunity, not merely equal treatment. However, the ADA does permit different or separate
treatment where necessary to ensure equal opportunity and truly effective benefits and services.
To be considered "disabled" under the ADA, "a person must have a condition that impairs a
major life activity or a history of such a condition, or be regarded as having such a condition.”
According to the ADA, a person is physically disabled when he or she has a physical
impairment (including impaired sensory, manual or speaking abilities), which results in a
functional limitation in access and use of a building or facility.
As in previous surveys, the 2005 Study reports participation rates among respondents who
identify a health or physical condition, handicap, or disability that limits their use of outdoor
recreation sites and facilities. As in prior years, those who reported having a limiting health or
physical condition also had a lower participation rate in recreational activities. This was
particularly true for activities such as going to the beach to swim or sunbathe, jogging or
running, playing basketball, swimming, or attending outdoor sporting events. As in previous
surveys, there are several activities in which having a physical or health condition does not
necessarily limit participation, including driving for pleasure, picnicking, watching wildlife,
bird watching, going on a guided nature trail or study, freshwater fishing and saltwater fishing.
While persons with some type of physical limitation are less likely to take part in recreation
that is more "physically active," these residents do participate in a number of less strenuous
activities at levels almost equal to persons without a limiting condition. Respondents who
reported having a physical or health condition were also asked if there were any site changes
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that would help them to enjoy recreation sites. While two-thirds of individuals did not mention
any change, other respondents cited a wide variety of specific changes that they would like to
see implemented. Many of the recommended site changes were directed toward providing
better access to facilities, such as wheelchair access, inclined ramps, or making it easier to get
up ramps. Other suggestions included providing wheelchairs or walkers, more walkways, more
shaded areas or shelters, and better facilities generally.
As the population of the State ages, both in concert with national trends and as a result of a
steady influx of retirees from other areas of the country, the provision of recreational facilities
that meet the needs of disabled persons will become increasingly important. More than onefourth (26.3%) of all disabled persons in South Carolina are 65 years of age or older.
The recreational needs of persons with disabilities vary greatly by type of disability. Close
attention must be paid to ADA requirements in providing accessibility for the disabled. Often,
only minor adjustments are needed to make it possible for all people to participate in existing
activities and programs. Additional efforts could be made to promote and publicize available
programs and facilities. For example, persons using wheelchairs may need access to structures
and other facilities via ramps, widened doorways, and hard smooth surfaces on walkways.
Vision impaired persons may need special items such as handrails on trails, Braille or raised
lettering on signs and brochures, and\or audio messages or taped tours. Persons with learning
disabilities may need pictures or symbols along with written messages on signs and brochures
to help interpret the messages. Special attention may be needed to accommodate hearing
impaired individuals since other disabilities may be more easily identifiable. In addition, the
needs of individuals with temporary conditions such as those with sprains or fractures, pregnant
women, and children in strollers should be considered.
Economically Disadvantaged
More than 14%, or 547,869 South Carolinians, live below poverty. However, a closer look at
poverty statistics reveals that 18.8% of the State’s children and 13.9% of its elderly residents
live below poverty.
The greatest numbers of residents living in poverty are found in the State’s urban areas.
Charleston County topped the list with 49,330 persons (9% of the State total) with incomes
below the poverty level, followed by Richland County with 40,386, Greenville County with
38,825, and Spartanburg County with 30,394. However, the highest per capita concentrations
of South Carolinians living in poverty are found in the State’s more rural and economically
distressed regions. Rural Allendale County had the highest concentration of persons with
incomes below the poverty level with 34.5% of the County's population meeting that criterion.
Other counties with high poverty levels include Williamsburg County (27.9%), Bamberg
County (27.8%), and Dillon County (24.2%).
The 2000 Census reports that of the 994,348 persons in the State aged 17 and under, 18.8%
(187,275) were living below the poverty level. The 18-to-34 age group had the next highest
number (139,926) of persons with incomes below poverty and the second highest percentage of
persons with incomes below poverty (15.8%). The 65-and-over age group also had a high
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percentage of persons with incomes below poverty at 13.9% (64,688). Table 24 shows the
breakdown of income below poverty by the major age groups.
Table 24. Poverty Status for SC Residents by Age, 1999
Age
Total Population
0 to 17 years
18 to 34 years
35 to 54 years
55 to 64 years
65+ years
Total
Population
3,883,329
994,348
883,724
1,169,720
369,690
465,847
Population with Income
Below Poverty
547,869
14.1%
187,275
18.8%
139,926
15.8%
115,450
9.9%
40,530
11.0%
64,688
13.9%
Source: US Census Bureau, 2000 Census.
Another poverty concern is the young children of single-parent families. There were 76,060
single-parent families with children under 18 years of age with incomes below poverty levels,
representing almost 56% of all families in poverty. Of single-parent families living in poverty
statewide, more than 90% (58,503 families) are headed by a single-female. The counties with
the highest number of single-parent, female head of household families living in poverty were
Charleston (5,700 families), Richland (4,557 families), and Greenville (4,036 families).
Counties with the highest percentages of families in poverty headed by a female single-parent
were Charleston and Richland Counties at 59.1%, Marion County at 58.3% and Union County
at 57.6%.
South Carolina has one of the lowest per capita incomes ($29,688) in the nation, ahead of only
Mississippi ($26,908), West Virginia ($28,067), and Arkansas ($28,444). The State ranks 47th
in the nation in per capita income, falling from 42nd highest in 2005. South Carolina's per
capita income lags well behind that of the nation ($36,629) and the Southeast ($33,170). The
State's low per capita income and relatively high percentage of persons whose income is below
the poverty level indicate economic disadvantages for many South Carolinians. Children and
the elderly are more susceptible to poverty than the population as a whole. It is integral that
steps be taken to include the economically disadvantaged in recreational planning, programs
and facilities at all levels.
Economically disadvantaged individuals face many obstacles in meeting their recreational
needs. These obstacles include the lack of transportation to existing recreational facilities and
programs, the inability to pay user fees (particularly private fees), and the lack of information
about available facilities and programs. South Carolina lacks a comprehensive transportation
system even in the more metropolitan areas, where the greatest number of economically
disadvantaged are located. The lack of transportation poses a formidable barrier, especially in
the rural areas of the State. User fees for recreation must be weighed carefully and maintained
at the lowest levels possible, especially for public facilities. Alternatives include special
pricing designed to give fee reductions to economically disadvantaged residents. Information
about low-cost recreational programs and facilities can be targeted to disadvantaged residents
to increase awareness of and participation in the opportunities available.
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The 2005 Study reported that residents with a family income of under $20,000 participated
most in: walking for pleasure (80.7%), attending outdoor sporting events (57.5%), driving for
pleasure (53.6%), working out with weights or exercise machines (47.3%), picnicking (45.3%),
beach swimming/sunbathing (42.6%), and pool swimming (41.7%).
g. Outdoor Recreation Trends
Outdoor recreation trends have garnered international focus across multiple disciplines as our
communities, our nation, and the world experience rapid growth and development that
concurrently pose new opportunities and daunting challenges to keep pace with demand while
preserving significant resources. Substantial population growth, combined with the changing
demographic composition of Americans in terms of ethnicity, race, and age have been noted as
primary factors impacting recreation trends.
In the United States, the population is expected to double from 2000 to 2100, with growth
among racial and ethnic groups projected to increase steadily through 2030. Immigration
continues to be a major contributor to overall population growth and accounts for millions of
additional residents each year. The number of older Americans (age 65 and older) is also
projected within the population to rise as baby boomers reach or near retirement.
The USDA Forest Service research and data from its 2000-2001 National Survey on Recreation
and the Environment show a concurrent growth in demand for recreation in the United States.
Outdoor recreation continues to grow in popularity, with 97% of Americans aged 16 or older
reporting participation to some extent in outdoor recreation during any given year. However,
there was a dip in participation in many recreational activities from Fall 2001 to Summer 2002
attributed to public reaction to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 (Outdoor Recreation
for 21st Century America, Cordell, 2004).
While the most favored recreational activities of the 1990s have remained popular in more
recent studies, the order of popularity has shifted nationally. While walking for pleasure and
family gatherings retain the top two spots in the ranking, sightseeing fell from 3rd to 5th place,
while visiting nature centers and picnicking each gained one spot to 3rd and 4th in popularity.
Kayaking has shown the greatest increase between 1994 and 2001, with the number of
participants growing by more than 185%. Participation in motorized recreational activities
such as jetskiing and driving off-road is also growing at a rapid pace. The number of persons
participating in jetskiing increased by more than 119% from 1994 to 2001. The nearly 37%
rise in off-road driving is supported by the skyrocketing sales of Off Highway Vehicles (OHV),
which increased by 99% from 1998 to 2003.
Participation and preference rankings change significantly when the actual number of occasions
of a recreational activity is examined. Viewing/learning/gathering activities top the list with a
mean of 136.1 occasions of participation. This category is defined as outdoor activities that
focus on some aspect of nature, history or prehistory, with the intentions of watching, studying,
photographing, sampling, observing and learning about natural or cultural history, or to gather
natural products. While these activities require active participation, they are considered passive
recreational activities. The most popular viewing/learning/gathering activity is photographing
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natural scenery, followed closely by sightseeing and viewing/photographing wildflowers and
wildlife. Among these activities, bird watching has seen the fastest growth in recent decades,
with a participant increase of more than 231% from 1982 to 2001.
It is important to note that the preference growth in particular activities nationwide is distinct
from the actual numbers of participants in each activity. For instance, while kayaking showed
substantial growth from 1994 to 2001 at 185.7%, only 7.4 million Americans participated in the
sport in 2001. Conversely, while 176.8 million persons enjoyed walking for pleasure in 2001 –
the largest participation of any recreational activity – there was only a 35.3% increase in
participation in the activity from 1994 to 2001, resulting in a ranking of 24th among the other
activities in the survey.
In a presentation to the 2005 National Outdoor Recreation Conference, USDA Scientist/Project
Leader, H. Ken Cordell, identified a number of issues that will impact the future of outdoor
recreation at both the national and local levels:
Public properties and providers will be tasked with accommodating most of the future
growth in recreation demands.
Restoration and management of ecosystems and recreation are high priorities for
Federal properties, but lack of adequate funding will be a barrier in meeting these
priorities.
State lands, especially state parks, are reaching maturity, and will require investments in
facilities maintenance and upgrade. Many of these parks will also experience the
pressures of growing usage of existing limited facilities and acreage.
Private landowners are continuing to close more land to public or leased access for
recreational activity. Private lands are also being developed around many public sites,
preventing the potential for public acquisition and expansion of existing public parks
and lands.
Increasing demands for activities such as climbing, off-road vehicle use, hiking,
horseback riding, motorized vehicle use, wildlife viewing, and tourism services will
contribute to more competition and conflicts on public and private properties.
A broad spectrum of recreational activities are likely to experience increased conflict as
demands grow for water access, trails, backcountry, developed sites, and roads.
Traditional and non-mechanized recreational user groups often perceive much more
conflict than newer non-traditional and mechanized user groups.
Building on earlier research and national assessments of demand and supply trends in outdoor
recreation, USDA program staff also noted additional general recreation characteristics and
trends that will shape recreational planning and policy in the coming years:
Wilderness benefits are expanding. Users often experience spiritual growth, therapeutic
healing, and interesting, fun, and relaxing experiences. Non-users obtain passive
benefits based on the knowledge that the areas are preserved as natural or
environmental trusts.
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The outdoor recreation market will to continue to grow. Increases are expected in the
number of participants, trips, and activity days for outdoor recreation in almost all
activities and regions. Visiting beaches, lakes, and streams will be among the top
activities. Crowding at these finite resources could become a problem. Water quality
improvements and access improvements will grow in importance.
Access to the private land base for recreation continues to decline. Private forestland
has been a key resource for many outdoor activities in the past, but fewer landowners
are allowing public access to their lands. Significant amounts of forest and agricultural
lands are being converted for residential and commercial development. This creates
increased pressure on the limited public land holdings, especially for dispersed
recreational activities.
Demand for nearby recreation resources is increasing. Recreational trips are generally
becoming shorter in duration as recreation at nearby sites such as greenways and railtrails is increasing. There is a continued trend toward multiple-activity, but shorterlength trips. This trend can be attributed to several factors including more two-income
households, an aging population less likely to travel longer distances, an increase in the
development of local trail networks, the need for more frequent getaways from the
stresses of jobs and parenting, and rising fuel costs. Demand is increasing for easily
accessed (drive-to) recreation opportunities, and for recreation areas that serve multiple
needs and support a variety of activities near one another.
Recreational resource development has not been equal across regions or settings.
There were increases in developed recreation facilities in the last two decades,
particularly in the Eastern States, that coincided with the needs of a larger population.
This increase is due in part to providers moving to capitalize on revenue generating
activities to provide operating funds as well as an increased emphasis and interest in
recreation as an economic development tool as in nature-based tourism in rural
communities. Other undeveloped publicly-owned lands are under pressure to
accommodate recreational uses that, due to the nature of the activity or growth in
participants, require more space. This is particularly a trend in the South, where
population growth and rapid development are placing greater demands on recreational
resources.
There are also new sports, advances in equipment and technology, and alternative ways of
participating in existing sports that are changing the way people recreate. However,
determining which of these advances and changes are sustainable trends or merely temporary
fads is a challenge for recreation planners. Many new activities also pose conflicts with other
recreation users. Some newer activities are attracting increased participation among women,
youth, minorities, and other non-traditional groups. Emerging, growing and evolving
recreational activities include:
Mountain biking – on rough terrain rather than streets or paths
Off-road vehicles – all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, and full-size vehicles
Backcountry usage – new gear, cell phones, GPS units
Skate-boarding – new equipment, ramps and parks, tricks and high risk activities
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Sporting clays – clay target shooting on a course simulating hunting experiences and
hunting preserves
Hunting preserves – guided hunts on private land, often with pen-raised game
Jet skis – personal watercraft powered by water jets rather than propellers
Bass fishing – special boats and other gear, tournaments, clubs
Fly fishing – renewed interest, classes, freshwater and saltwater
Kayaking – whitewater or touring, fishing opportunities
Rowing – team and individual competition, winter training opportunities in warmer
climates
Personal exercise equipment – used at home or office
Private gyms – workout clubs, indoor pools, and other indoor activities
Geo-caching – a techno-sport using global positioning satellites (GPS) and hand-held
systems to locate specific “finds” in state, local and national parks and forests
Field Sports – soccer, lacrosse, disc golf, ultimate Frisbee
Dog parks – opportunities for “off leash” exercise, training, agility, obedience,
conformation
Water parks and spray facilities
Of particular interest to South Carolina is the continuing rise in nature-based and
cultural/heritage tourism activities. The Palmetto State has a rich cultural history and natural
resource base, much of which remains untapped and unprotected. Rural communities with
attractive cultural, scenic and historical resources are among the fastest growing heritage
tourism destinations. The numerous smaller towns and communities throughout the State stand
to benefit from continued development of the regional heritage and nature-based tourism
markets. Such tourism is an attractive economic development option for South Carolina’s rural
communities because it preserves the region’s character, instills local pride, promotes
community investment, and generates local employment opportunities.
Many local
jurisdictions have anchored their tourism marketing plans with an emphasis on these activities
and are promoting their environmental and historic assets to attract the heritage tourist seeking
historical and cultural learning opportunities, as well as the eco-tourist looking for natural and
environmental sites of interest.
Cultural tourism has become a high-growth activity in South Carolina, enabling communities
of all sizes to capitalize on the State’s rich historical and cultural resources. Residents and
tourists are visiting historic sites, retracing family histories, volunteering for archaeological
digs, re-enacting battles and period lifestyles, and studying lifestyles of the past. Besides
visiting historic places and museums during their trips, heritage visitors enjoy shopping,
beaches, state parks, cultural events/festivals, and outdoor recreation activities such as hiking,
fishing or hunting. It is clear that significant opportunities exist to develop this market more
extensively at the local, regional, and state levels. Main streets are being refurbished, specialty
outfitters are being opened, local museums are being established, private tour businesses are
opening to accommodate visitor interests, and new touring routes are being established such as
the South Carolina Heritage Corridor and the Cradle of Democracy Tour. Cultural tourism
offers renewed economic opportunity for the State’s rural communities that are in the greatest
need. Heritage tourism also offers new recreational opportunities for ethnic and racial minority
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groups, particularly linked to the emerging interest in African-American heritage such as the
Gullah/ Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor.
Nature-based tourism, also known as eco-tourism, is a rapidly growing activity. Although
definitions of the terms may vary with the individual, visits to wilderness areas, guided outings
for wildlife viewing, paddling, fishing, or hunting, educational outings and adventure trips
(involving risk) are common examples of this type of recreational activity. A 2006 national
study by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and US Bureau of the Census identified naturebased participation in the South Carolina (among both residents and non-residents) to exceed
789,000 participants in fishing, 203,000 participants in hunting, and more than 1.4 million
participants observing wildlife. Residents and non-residents spent more than $2.1 billion on
wildlife-associated recreation, with more than $1.3 billion spent on fishing, nearly $309 million
on hunting, and an additional $483 million on wildlife viewing activities.
The growing emphasis on heritage and nature-based tourism continues to hold economic
promise for many communities in South Carolina. The recognition of the State’s heritage
tourism resources as an economic resource and as a catalyst for community revitalization is
paramount in the creation of a sustainable economy for the State and its distinct regions.
However, careful assessment, coordination and planning, coupled with adequate funding
resources, are integral to preserving the State’s cultural heritage and abundant natural resources
and to fostering a climate for further tourism and outdoor recreation growth.
C. ISSUE IDENTIFICATION AND PRIORITIZATION
In order to identify the most important recreational issues of the general public, SCPRT worked
with local interests in a series of regional workshops across the State. Interagency meetings
contributed additional insight into emerging issues, priorities, and evolving missions relative to
outdoor recreation. Issues of national concern were also considered by examining the work of
national groups who have recommended actions on a number of recreational matters. The
results are summarized as follows.
1. Public Workshop Process
In October and November of 2007, SCPRT and the Matheny-Burns Group conducted a series
of five statewide public workshops. The workshops were held in both metropolitan and rural
areas of the State and included the Cities of Greenville, Columbia, and North Charleston and
the Towns of Lamar and Blackville. News releases were sent to local media around the State
and direct mail notification was made to approximately 200 representatives of local parks and
recreation departments, councils of government, and State and Federal agencies. More than
275 organizations with recreational interests including statewide conservation groups, the
South Carolina Recreation & Parks Association, the South Carolina Chapter of the American
Planning Association, the State Trails Advisory Committee, and a group that is currently
planning the 2008 Southeastern Equestrian Trails Conference, were notified by email and
encouraged to send the notice to their members. Sixty-six representatives participated in the
regional workshops, in which participants identified 60 recreational issues. These issues were
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subsequently compiled into 15 major issues following completion of all the workshops and the
receipt of additional emails that provided further comments on issues, proposed actions, or
other recommendations for outdoor recreation in South Carolina.
The purpose of the regional workshops was to seek public input on the most important issues
affecting outdoor recreation areas, programs, and projects in South Carolina. Each participant
was asked to list their most important issues regarding outdoor recreation and present them to
the group. These issues were then written on flipcharts and posted on the facility walls. Once
all the issues were listed, the items were discussed and combined into common themes with the
group consensus. Each participant was then given the opportunity to prioritize what they
perceived to be the top three issues from the list. Prioritization was achieved by using a defined
system of colored dots to assign points to each individual's most important issues on the
flipchart pages. Priorities were then tallied, summarized and reviewed with the group before
the workshop was concluded.
Following the workshops, the meeting issues and mail responses were summarized for each
regional meeting (Appendix E). From the 60 total issues generated by the five workshops and
emails, duplications were eliminated and issues combined along similar themes into a list of
fifteen statewide issues. The fifteen priority issues listed in Chart 4 are derived from the
highest ranking concerns identified in the public workshops and interagency forum, but are not
listed in priority order within the table.
In November 2007, SCPRT consultants and staff met with a focus group of State, Federal, and
local recreation organizations to review the identified issues and determine the actions which
could be taken to impact these issues, to assess agency work plans and priorities, and to update
issues and action strategies.
Chart 4. 2008 SCORP Priority Issues
Issue 1: Increase funding for outdoor recreation facilities and programs, to include increased
grant opportunities, exploring privatization and/or leveraging public-private
partnerships for appropriate activities and facilities, seeking private sponsorships,
and fostering increased volunteer involvement to augment staff and reduce
operational costs.
Issue 2: Increase funding for locally-based recreation facilities and programs, particularly in
rural communities, to reduce the need for travel, relieve crowding at major facilities,
and enhance recreational access for persons with mobility or financial limitations.
Issue 3: Create an expanded network of trails that are well-designed and well-managed, are
available to many, and provide appropriate facilities for:
- Equestrians
- Boating, including canoeing, kayaking and rowing
- Walkers, hikers, backpackers, and bikers in both urban and rural settings
- Historic trails (Revolutionary War, railroad, etc.)
- General use trails
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Chart 4. 2008 SCORP Priority Issues, Continued
Issue 4: Provide adequate support facilities for all trails including:
- Trailheads, including signage, parking and restrooms
- Potable water for people and livestock
- Parking for longer campers and horse trailers where appropriate
- Water and electrical hookups at non-primitive camp sites
- Additional secluded primitive campsites
- Bathhouses, where appropriate
- Trash collection
- Safety improvements (scheduled water releases, warning devices, call boxes,
parking improvements, etc.)
Issue 5: Provide additional education, outreach and promotion of available outdoor recreation
opportunities statewide – including recreational facilities, educational programs,
trails for all types of uses, and camping facilities – with a particular emphasis on
reaching minorities, K-12 students and educators, lower income residents, and
persons with disabilities.
Issue 6: Promote increased collaboration between recreational facility managers and teachers
on formal and informal outdoor education opportunities.
Issue 7: Provide or improve outdoor recreation facilities to enable greater accessibility and
use by multiple age groups and persons with disabilities.
Issue 8: Minimize conflicts between outdoor recreational activities that are not compatible
through education, regulation, and careful planning of new or expanded facilities and
programs.
Issue 9: Provide and properly maintain adequate facilities for and access to a diverse range of
outdoor recreation activities, from traditionally popular activities such as boating and
hunting to emerging activities such as rowing, rock climbing, disc golf, and dog
parks.
Issue 10: Require and/or encourage the provision of connectivity between trails, outdoor
recreation facilities, open space and residential development on all levels – local,
regional and statewide.
Issue 11: Create and encourage partnerships among government and non-profit agencies at all
levels to ensure coordination, reduce redundancies, provide training and technical
assistance, and leverage resources to enable additional outdoor recreation
opportunities.
Issue 12: Encourage small business and eco-tourism opportunities to enhance local economic
development and to fill unmet outdoor recreational needs.
Issue 13: Protect and acquire significant lands for natural and cultural resources and identify
opportunities for allowing public outdoor recreational use.
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Chart 4. 2008 SCORP Priority Issues, Continued
Issue 14: Protect shorelines (rivers, lakes, and beaches) and dedicate more waterfront lands for
public recreational use and access.
Issue 15: Promote green technologies and energy conservation techniques in the planning,
design, construction and operation of outdoor recreation facilities to reduce costs and
conserve natural resources.
2. Issues of National Concern
Many recreational issues of national concern have surfaced over the last few years as
communities, non-profits, the private sector, and individuals have joined recreational and
natural resource providers in recognizing the growing importance of recreational opportunity to
overall quality of life and community sustainability. These issues build upon much earlier
efforts to raise awareness, create support, and promote outdoor recreation by such efforts as the
1986 President’s Commission on Americans Outdoors (PCAO), the 1989 American Planning
Association study of SCORP planning, and a 1988 report by a coalition of environmental
groups known as the Blueprint for the Environment.
In 1994, the Director of the National Park Service requested a review of the state and local
portion of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and the Urban Park and
Recreation Recovery Program (UPARR). The National Park System Advisory Committee
submitted major recommendations that included: the development of a nationwide network of
parks and open space crafted by new partnerships among local, state and federal governments
and the private sector; the merger of the LWCF and UPARR funding programs into a single
program; an annual appropriation of $1 billion for recreation and conservation needs; and
active involvement of citizens in establishing funding priorities and planning for the
development of an American Network of Parks and Open Space.
Although considerable time has passed since these studies and reports were completed, many of
the core recreation issues and needs remain relevant and at the forefront of national discussion
today. The need for expanded recreational opportunity for all sectors of society, support for
locally based recreation, increased education and outreach on available recreational
opportunities, and development of partnerships among public and private recreation
organizations are further reflected in several current national initiatives that focus on
recreational activities.
In March and April of 2007, the American Recreation Coalition and the National Forest
Foundation partnered to convene a series of six Recreation Forums across the nation – five
regional sessions held in Colorado, Georgia, California, Oregon, and Illinois that were followed
by a national gathering in Washington, DC. More than 1,000 people attended the regional
forums, representing government, youth service organizations, conservation groups, and
outdoor industries. Through a blend of presentations, facilitated dialogue and open discussion,
the Forums united diverse organizations and agencies seeking to identify common challenges
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and solutions to meeting national recreations needs through public lands and waters. Key
national outdoor recreation issues that surfaced during the Forums are summarized in Chart 5.
Chart 5. Key Issues Facing Outdoor Recreation from the
2007 Regional and National Recreation Forums
Access – America’s trail and forest systems are in need of significant repair and
enhancement. An aging infrastructure, maintenance backlog, restricted budgets and losses
of rights-of-way to public lands limit opportunities for many people to access and enjoy
outdoor recreation areas.
Youth Participation – We need to explore creative ways to boost outdoor recreation
participation among youth. Intergenerational unstructured play opportunities need to be a
core part of involving youth in the outdoors.
Budgets – Federal and state budgets for recreation-related projects shrink annually, which
in the long run may significantly diminish the degree to which outdoor recreation
stimulates local, regional and national economies.
Urbanization and Diversity – Urban and ethnically diverse audiences have limited
exposure to opportunities for outdoor education and recreation.
Outreach and Education – The recreation community needs to do a better job of
communicating with potential constituencies about the amazingly diverse opportunities to
enjoy the outdoors, how to access these opportunities, and the value and importance of
outdoor recreation.
Collaboration – Faced with limited budgets and capacity, there is a need to overcome
barriers to recreation partnerships at all levels – local to national, public to private – while
also collaborating with nontraditional recreation interests.
In addition to highlighting key issues facing the nation in the area of outdoor recreation, the
2007 Recreation Forums also yielded suggested actions and solutions to these issues, as
provided in Chart 6.
Chart 6. Suggested Actions and Solutions to Key Outdoor Recreation Issues from the
2007 Regional and National Recreation Forums
Building Collaboration – Pooling capacity and funding to overcome budget challenges,
reaching new audiences by creating new partnerships, developing stronger public-private
partnerships, and starting collaboration at the local level.
Marketing Outdoor Recreation – One of the primary barriers to outdoor participation is
lack of information. Recreation interests should explore creative and dynamic ways to
share information about the benefits of outdoor recreation and about where people can go to
enjoy the outdoors, particularly to youth, urban and diverse audiences.
Empowering Volunteers – Use volunteer programs to enhance recreation resources and
build a citizen commitment to the outdoors.
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Chart 6. Suggested Actions and Solutions to Key Outdoor Recreation Issues from the
2007 Regional and National Recreation Forums, Continued
Building Collaboration – Pooling capacity and funding to overcome budget challenges,
reaching new audiences by creating new partnerships, developing stronger public-private
partnerships, and starting collaboration at the local level.
Marketing Outdoor Recreation – One of the primary barriers to outdoor participation is
lack of information. Recreation interests should explore creative and dynamic ways to
share information about the benefits of outdoor recreation and about where people can go
to enjoy the outdoors, particularly to youth, urban and diverse audiences.
Empowering Volunteers – Use volunteer programs to enhance recreation resources and
build a citizen commitment to the outdoors.
Caring for Public Lands – Better educate the public about their public lands, devote
shared resources toward enhancing these wild places, and demonstrate to government
leaders the value of investing in public lands stewardship, particularly access and
recreation projects.
Finding Funding – Support for outdoor education and recreation stewardship depends
increasingly on creativity and collaboration. With the organizational capacity of agencies
to guide and coordinate public and private resources extremely strained, recreation
interests must appeal to elected officials with a unified voice about the importance of
funding public lands and recreation programs.
Employing Technology – Innovatively use technology to market and implement outdoor
recreation programs to entice greater participation.
Establishing Urban Links – Develop stronger regional collaboration focused on
recreation and transportation planning to link urban populations with nature-based
opportunities and make it easy for them to learn about and enjoy the outdoors.
Continuing the Dialogue – Maintain the momentum created by the Regional Recreation
Forums. The Forums should form the foundation for a recreation network that facilitates
information sharing, partnerships, collaborative projects and future gatherings.
The Healthy People 2010 initiative is a broad-based collaborative effort among federal, state,
and territorial governments – as well as hundreds of private, public, and non-profit
organizations – aimed at setting national disease prevention and health promotion objectives to
be achieved by the end of the decade. The effort has two overarching goals: to increase the
quality and years of healthy life and to eliminate health disparities. Healthy People 2010
included “Physical Activity” as one of the 10 highest priority public health issues and leading
health indicators nationally. Among the objectives set by Healthy People 2010 are increased
leisure-time activities and regular physical activity among adults, adolescents and children, and
increased community walking and biking opportunities. Detailed data and indicators related to
this and other health objectives can be found on the Healthy People 2010 website at
www.health.gov/healthypeople.
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Building on this growing focus on health concerns among the American population, the
American Planning Association (APA) received a grant in 2001 from the Robert Wood
Johnson Foundation to conduct research and prepare a Planners Advisory Service (PAS) Report
and other educational materials on Planning Active Communities. The grant was part of a fiveyear Robert Wood Johnson Foundation initiative to encourage changes to the built environment
that will promote physical activity as a means of improving the health of Americans. The
primary product of the APA initiative is the 2007 PAS Report entitled Planning Active
Communities that outlines best practices, planning principles, and case studies illustrating how
communities are addressing physical activity and recreational concerns in local comprehensive
plans, urban design initiatives, capital improvement programs, and development review
processes. As part of the Planning Active Communities effort, APA staff surveyed 10,000
planners in the spring of 2004 to identify local initiatives already underway throughout the
nation, as well as to find specific planning techniques that can help the population become
more physically active. Other project activities have included National Planning Conference
sessions, an audio conference for planning commissioners, and a Physically Active Community
Institute. The Institute brought together planners, designers, and community leaders as well as
experts in public health and recreation to design planning solutions that enable people to
become physically active. Additional information on the project, including an extensive listing
of related resources, can be found on the APA website at www.planning.org.
APA is also partnering with the National Association of City and County Health Officials on
the Healthy Communities through Collaboration. A primary focus of the project was the
development of the 2006 PAS report entitled Integrating Planning and Public Health. The
report focuses on collaboration across the planning and public health disciplines to achieve
public health goals through community planning, including planning to enable and encourage
physical activity.
Similarities and common themes on recreation and related issues are found throughout the
recommendations of these diverse groups and disciplines. Current recreational issues of
national concern are profiled in Chart 7. SCPRT and other allied groups will continue to
encourage the Federal government to take action on these national issues.
Chart 7. Issues of National Concern
Stable funding, as provided through mechanisms such as dedicated trust funds and user
fees, is needed to continue to meet the recreational and natural resources needs of the
American people.
Adequate operational funds must be provided to maintain, update and expand existing
recreation resources and new facilities added due to increased demand and population
growth.
America’s outdoor recreation facilities, including trail and forest systems, are in need of
significant repair and enhancement; however, sufficient funding has not been made
available.
Lack of outreach and education about the myriad of diverse outdoor recreation
opportunities available continues to be a major barrier to outdoor recreation participation.
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Chart 7. Issues of National Concern, Continued
America’s outdoor recreation facilities, including trail and forest systems, are in need of
significant repair and enhancement; however, sufficient funding has not been made
available.
Lack of outreach and education about the myriad of diverse outdoor recreation
opportunities available continues to be a major barrier to outdoor recreation participation.
Accommodating future outdoor recreation demands will increasingly fall on public
properties and providers as private landowners close land to public access.
As America’s youth are increasingly drawn to activities other than outdoor recreation such
as the internet and expanding audio/video options, creative ways to boost outdoor
recreation and physical activity among this sector of the population should be explored.
Shrinking Federal and state funds allocated for recreation-related projects and programs
will necessitate the creation of outdoor recreation partnerships and collaborations among all
levels of government, non-profits, volunteers, private recreation providers, and other nontraditional recreation interests to seek alternative funding sources and leverage existing
funds.
Outdoor recreation opportunities are limited for residents of highly urbanized areas,
minorities, persons with disabilities, and persons of limited means.
Different strategies must be developed to meet the outdoor recreation needs of all parts of
society.
Increased participation in and demand for a broad spectrum of outdoor activities such as
climbing, motorized and off-road vehicle use, hiking, horseback riding, water sports and
wildlife viewing is likely to create competition and conflicts for the use of public and
private properties.
Demand for nearby recreation resources is increasing as the nation becomes increasingly
urbanized, fuel prices climb, and security concerns related to travel increase.
The benefits of outdoor recreation and physical activity to public health and well being are
increasingly well known and have begun to impact public policy.
A national system of parks, greenways, trails, scenic corridors, and recreation areas will
contribute to the health and quality of life of individuals and communities, create jobs and
economic benefits, conserve natural habitat and cultural resources, improve existing
resources, and meet the changing recreational needs of the American people.
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PART VIII. SCORP IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM
The following general implementation program for outdoor recreation in South Carolina
represents the five-year planning period from 2008 through 2013. Individual agencies and
organizations will develop detailed plans for the identified strategies based on their respective
mission, priorities, and available resources. The needs and recommendations addressed in the
2008 SCORP Implementation Program were developed through meetings and discussions with
numerous Federal, State, and local agencies and organizations whose involvement is considered
integral to successful implementation of the SCORP.
Although this section serves as a general blueprint for guiding outdoor recreation initiatives in
South Carolina over the next five years, it is important to recognize that additional windows of
opportunity will likely open within the five-year plan period to address outdoor recreational
needs. Although they may not be identified in this Plan, they should be incorporated as available
into efforts to address future needs and advance the major plan implementation
recommendations. Of particular benefit are opportunities that generate interagency and publicprivate collaboration and that maximize resources through partnerships, cost-sharing agreements,
grant opportunities, volunteer involvement, or other major cost saving measures. The sections
that follow identify future outdoor recreation needs, as well as establish specific implementation
strategies and responsibilities to achieve plan goals in the coming five years.
A. FUTURE NEEDS
The general guiding principles for outdoor recreation policy and planning in South Carolina for
the next five years are summarized in Chart 8.
Chart 8. Outdoor Recreation Guiding Policy and Planning Principles
Take action on the major recreation issues identified by the general public.
Address the continued transition of traditional funding streams and identify alternative funding
sources and resource development opportunities with an increased emphasis on interagency
collaboration and public-private partnerships to maximize limited resources.
Base acquisition and development decisions on the findings of participation and preference studies
within the context of the significant identified issues. Seek and pursue windows of opportunity such
as cost-sharing, partnerships, land donations, bargain sales, and perpetual easements when possible.
Incorporate related needs and strategies from other agency and organization planning processes and
implement recommendations from other existing studies and plans.
Encourage Federal action on issues of national concern.
Realization of the SCORP goals and implementation strategies will be shaped by these general
guidelines as well as impacted by a myriad of environmental challenges and opportunities.
These external trends include: the continued transition and decline of traditional funding streams
and the need to identify alternative funding sources and resource development strategies; an
increased emphasis on interagency collaboration, public-private partnerships, and volunteer
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involvement to maximize limited resources; and continued population growth and development
in South Carolina that is accompanied by an increased demand for expanded recreational
opportunities, additional demand on existing recreational resources, and growing development
pressure on existing and potential natural and cultural resources.
B. RECOMMENDATIONS
Implementation strategies are listed for fifteen major issues that were identified through the
public participation process and through interagency focus meetings. These priority needs are
listed in Chart 9.
Chart 9. 2008 SCORP Implementation Issues
Issue 1:
Increase funding for outdoor recreation facilities and programs, to include increased grant
opportunities, exploring privatization and/or leveraging public-private partnerships for
appropriate activities and facilities, seeking private sponsorships, and fostering increased
volunteer involvement to augment staff and reduce operational costs.
Issue 2:
Increase funding for locally-based recreation facilities and programs, particularly in rural
communities, to reduce the need for travel, relieve crowding at major facilities, and enhance
recreational access for persons with mobility or financial limitations.
Issue 3:
Create an expanded network of trails that are well-designed and well-managed, are available
to many, and provide appropriate facilities for:
-
Issue 4:
Equestrians
Boating, including canoeing, kayaking and rowing
Walkers, hikers, backpackers, and bikers in both urban and rural settings
Historic trails (Revolutionary War, railroad, etc.)
General use trails
Provide adequate support facilities for all trails including:
-
Trailheads, including signage, parking and restrooms
Potable water for people and livestock
Parking for longer campers and horse trailers where appropriate
Water and electrical hookups at non-primitive camp sites
Additional secluded primitive campsites
Bathhouses, where appropriate
Trash collection
Safety improvements such as scheduled water releases, warning devices, call boxes, and
parking
Issue 5:
Provide additional education, outreach and promotion of available outdoor recreation
opportunities statewide – including recreational facilities, educational programs, trails for all
types of uses, and camping facilities – with a particular emphasis on reaching minorities, K-12
students and educators, lower income residents, and persons with disabilities.
Issue 6:
Promote increased collaboration between recreational facility managers and teachers on
formal and informal outdoor education opportunities.
Issue 7:
Provide or improve outdoor recreation facilities to enable greater accessibility and use by
multiple age groups and persons with disabilities.
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Chart 9. 2008 SCORP Implementation Issues, Continued
Issue 8:
Minimize conflicts between outdoor recreational activities that are not compatible through
education, regulation, and careful planning of new or expanded facilities and programs.
Issue 9:
Provide and properly maintain adequate facilities for and access to a diverse range of outdoor
recreation activities, from traditionally popular activities such as boating and hunting to
emerging activities such as rowing, rock climbing, disc golf, and dog parks.
Issue 10: Require and/or encourage the provision of connectivity between trails, outdoor recreation
facilities, open space and residential development on all levels – local, regional and statewide.
Issue 11: Create and encourage partnerships among government and non-profit agencies at all levels to
ensure coordination, reduce redundancies, provide training and technical assistance, and
leverage resources to enable additional outdoor recreation opportunities.
Issue 12: Encourage small business and eco-tourism opportunities to enhance local economic
development and to fill unmet outdoor recreational needs.
Issue 13: Protect and acquire significant lands for natural and cultural resources and identify
opportunities for allowing public outdoor recreational use.
Issue 14: Protect shorelines (rivers, lakes, and beaches) and dedicate more waterfront lands for public
recreational use and access.
Issue 15: Promote green technologies and energy conservation techniques in the planning, design,
construction and operation of outdoor recreation facilities to reduce costs and conserve natural
resources.
In addition, a list of national recreation concerns is outlined in Section VII-C.2–Issues of
National Concern (Chart 7). These are common concerns that affect the quantity and quality of
outdoor recreation opportunities in communities throughout the country. Federal funding for
resource expansion and operations, public and private sector coordination and collaboration to
provide recreational access, increasing demand and competition, environmental concerns,
increased emphasis on encouraging physical activity within all age groups, and on-going
education and outreach efforts are some of the issues that will continue to transcend state and
agency boundaries.
State and local agencies as well as non-profit and private organizations plan to accomplish a
wide range of actions that will address the priority issues identified during the 2008 SCORP
planning process. A listing of these planned actions is provided in a table format under each
priority issue, along with the key organizations responsible for implementation. Although
several of these strategies are designed to advance multiple SCORP issues, each is listed only
once under the primary issue that will be addressed.
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Table 25. 2008 SCORP Implementation Strategies
SCORP Issue/Strategies
Responsibility
Issue 1: Increase funding for outdoor recreation facilities and programs, to include increased grant
opportunities, exploring privatization and/or leveraging public-private partnerships for appropriate activities and
facilities, seeking private sponsorships, and fostering increased volunteer involvement to augment staff and
reduce operational costs.
Continue to administer the Federal Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and
SCPRT
Recreational Trails Program (RTP) as well as the State Recreation Land Trust
(RELT) and Parks & Recreation Development (PARD) Fund. Open Project Selection
Process for LWCF/RELT will give funding priority to: 1) significant natural/cultural
resources conservation, public beach access; 2) trails and greenways, river and lake
access, public open space; 3) athletic fields and courts, playgrounds, wildlife
watching and other passive opportunities; 4) improvements that increase the
usefulness of existing facilities including golf courses and campgrounds or provide
significant energy savings; and 5) support facilities, renovations.
Give additional grant priority consideration to agencies or projects that demonstrate:
SCPRT
1) acquisition only, for future recreation use; 2) identified in current recreation/natural
resources/community facilities plans; 3) significant interagency or public/private
cooperation; 4) located in areas with low income, high percentage of minorities, high
population growth, or in a rural community; 5) improves accessibility for persons
with disabilities or special needs and/or improves accessibility for persons of all ages;
6) protects wetlands (with emphasis on those identified as protection targets in
SCORP); and 7) limited site alteration.
Recognize the following as activities with high outdoor recreational demand with
SCPRT
consideration for grants as appropriate: Walking for Pleasure/Exercise; Playing Ball;
Swimming; Picnicking; Visiting Historic Sites; Bicycling; Fishing; Visiting Natural
Features/Wildlife Watching; Motorboating; Jogging/Running; Off-Road Vehicle
Riding; Camping; Golf; Hiking; Hunting; Canoeing/Kayaking.
Continue to pursue opportunities for providing public outdoor recreational resources
SCPRT
such as trails in state parks, through the creation of appropriate partnerships,
supporting volunteer resources and by seeking outside funding sources.
Encourage the use of partnerships to enhance existing trails and facilities.
Carolina Sandhills
National Wildlife Refuge
(CSNWR)
Continue to seek regular operating funding increases, as well as one-time special
Congaree National Park
project funding for Congaree National Park recreation facilities and programs.
Continue to pursue non-federal grants, partnership opportunities, and matching
Congaree National Park
funding for its outdoor recreation facilities and programs.
Continue to make use of more than 11,000 hours of volunteer labor annually and seek Congaree National Park
to increase volunteer hours by at least 25% by 2013, with particular focus on
increasing volunteer diversity.
Develop a greenways plan and a dedicated source of funding for the construction of
Palmetto Conservation
greenways to include funding assistance for public trails by the Richland County
Foundation (PCF)
Conservation Commission through its Community Conservation Grant Program.
Richland County
Conservation Commission
Continue to provide grant funding for land conservation, primarily through funding
SC Conservation Bank
provided by a percentage of the Real Estate Transfer Fee as well as additional
appropriations as provided.
Seek alternative funding through grants from public and private sources, partnerships
All recreation
with both public and private entities, sponsorships and other means.
providers
Periodically update the SCORP and other plans to maintain federal grant eligibility.
SCPRT
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SCORP Issue/Strategies
Responsibility
Issue 2: Increase funding for locally-based recreation facilities and programs, particularly in rural communities,
to reduce the need for travel, relieve crowding at major facilities, and enhance recreational access for persons
with mobility or financial limitations.
Continue to administer the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and
SCPRT
Recreational Trails Program (RTP) as well as the Recreation Land Trust (RELT) and
Parks Fund and Recreation Development (PARD) Fund.
Continue to seek funding to provide increased opportunities for local residents in the
Congaree National Park
surrounding rural community to experience the outdoor recreation resources available
within the Congaree National Park.
Encourage the SC Legislature to increase State funding for outdoor recreation in local SCRPA
communities.
Local Jurisdictions
Seek regional partnerships and funding to encourage the development of outdoor
Local/regional govts
recreation facilities that are more easily accessed by rural communities.
Recreation departments
Other organizations
Issue 3: Create an expanded network of trails that are well-designed and well-managed, are available to many,
and provide appropriate facilities for: equestrians; boating, including canoeing, kayaking and rowing; walkers,
hikers, backpackers, and bikers in both urban and rural settings; historic trails (i.e., Revolutionary War,
railroad); and general use trails.
Expand trail facilities for equestrians and other users at Croft State Park.
SCPRT
PCF
Establish an improved, bike friendly and accessible trail at Hunting Island State Park
SCPRT
that will provide better connectivity and access to the nature center, the south end of
Friends of Hunting Island
the island and to other areas of the Park.
Local governments
Complete the historic battlefield trail at the Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, to
SCPRT
include interpretive waysides about the Revolutionary War battle at the site.
Continue to explore opportunities for recreational partnerships, including the
SCPRT
completion of a trail connecting Kings Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain
NC State Parks
National Military Park and Crowder’s Mountain State Park in North Carolina.
Explore and seek opportunities to capitalize on regional trail initiatives that will
SCPRT
connect state park properties with urban/regional trail systems and other public lands,
such as plans for the Palmetto Trail, Greenville County trail initiatives, and the
Carolina Thread Trail.
Continue to implement the goals and recommendations of the Ashley Scenic River
Ashley Scenic River
Management Plan to include establishing an additional canoe/kayak access above
Advisory Council (SRAC)
Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site and a potential Bacons Bridge county park.
Continue to implement the goals and recommendations of the Saluda River Corridor
Lower Saluda SRAC
Plan and Plan Update to include supporting expansion of the Three Rivers Greenway
SCDNR
below 1-26, extension of the Saluda River Greenway from Saluda Shoals Park,
SCPRT
providing additional canoe/kayak access and egress above Mill Race Rapids, and
SCE&G
participating in the re-licensing process for the Saluda Hydro Project to expand
City of Columbia
recreational access facilities and improve safety and in-stream flows.
Irmo-Chapin Recreation
Commission
Other partners
Encourage improved access for non-motorized boating and rowing competition on the Columbia Rowing Club
Broad River near Columbia and other suitable locations.
River Alliance
Continue to maintain the Cedar Creek canoe trail – the State’s only stretch of
Congaree National Park
Outstanding National Resource Waters (ONRW) – for use by paddlers.
Publish a river management plan for the Little Pee Dee Scenic River and work to
Little Pee Dee Scenic
implement the goals and recommendations of the plan to include river access at the
River Advisory Council
SSR 23 and SC Hwy 41 crossings and the creation of a Little Pee Dee canoe trail.
SCDNR
Other organizations
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SCORP Issue/Strategies
Issue 3: Continued…
Develop and market the Congaree River Blue Trail, a paddling trail that extends from
Gervais Street in Columbia to US Hwy 601, and support the Trail’s adoption as a
National Recreation Trail.
Publish a river management plan for the Black Scenic River and work with SCDOT
and other organizations to advocate for a paddle-craft landing along the Black Scenic
River at SC Hwy 377 in Williamsburg County.
Establish a canoe/kayak access on the lower portion of the Broad River near Hwy
211.
Continue the development of a canoe trail at Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve, with
access sites already established at 12th Street and Old State Road and an additional
access planned for the Hwy 321 crossing.
Complete additional sections of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail,
involving local resources such as the Cherokee County Overmountain Victory Trail
Committee, which has successfully competed for trail construction funding and has
set aside a percentage of its accommodations tax revenues for trail construction.
Continue to expand the Palmetto Trail to include the: 1) Peak to Prosperity rail-trail
conversion (including 11 miles through Newberry County); 2) Croft State Natural
Area (10 miles, connecting Glenn Springs with the Hub City Connector); 3) Hub City
Connector in Downtown Spartanburg (adding 7 miles to the existing 5 miles);
4) Poinsett Reservoir Phase 2 (adding 6 miles); 5) Poinsett Phase 2 to Jones Gap
(negotiation of route and construction begun); 6) Jones Gap State Park to Table Rock
State Park (negotiation of route through the Table Rock reservoir and adding 4 to 5
miles); 7) Jocassee 2, from Highway 178 to Devils Fork State Park (negotiation of
route and construction begun); 8) Devils Fork to Oconee State Park (negotiation of
route); 9) Lower Richland (adding 15+ miles with negotiation of route and
construction begun); and 10) Broad River to Alston (negotiation of route).
Develop the Glendale Greenway – a one-mile trail along the Lawson’s Fork Creek.
Upgrade and extend the Lawson’s Fork Pacolet River Trail, to include an upgrade of
the paddling trail from Glendale to Goldmine Road and extension of the trail to
Pacolet, resulting in an 8-mile paddling trail.
Implement plans for a paddling trail from Clifton to Pacolet that will extend an
additional 4 miles.
Convert a former railroad line extending from Port Royal to Yemassee to a trail.
Continue to extend the Three Rivers Greenway.
Continue to extend trails from Saluda Shoals Park along the Lower Saluda River.
Assist with the monitoring, maintenance, and improvement of trails across the State.
Continue to develop trail and greenway plans, expand existing trail and greenway
systems and build new trails and greenways through local funding, partnerships,
sponsorships and other means.
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Responsibility
American Rivers
Congaree National Park
SCDNR
River Alliance
Friends of the Congaree
Other state, local and nonprofit partners
Black Scenic River
Advisory Council
SCDNR
Broad Scenic River
Advisory Council
SCDNR
National Park Service
Cherokee/Spartanburg
County organizations
PCF
SCPRT
SCDNR
Partners
PCF
Wofford University
SPACE
PCF
PCF
PCF
Beaufort Jasper Water and
Sewer Authority
River Alliance
Cities of Columbia, West
Columbia, Cayce
Irmo-Chapin Recreation
Commission
Partner organizations
Volunteer groups
Local/regional govts
Recreation departments
Land trusts
Other organizations
SCORP Issue/Strategies
Responsibility
Issue 4: Provide adequate support facilities for all trails including: 1) trailheads, including signage, parking and
restrooms; 2) potable water for people and livestock; 3) parking for longer campers and horse trailers where
appropriate; 4) water and electrical hookups at non-primitive camp sites; 5) additional secluded primitive
campsites; 6) bathhouses, where appropriate; 7) trash collection; and 8) Safety upgrades such as scheduled water
releases, warning devices, call boxes, and parking improvements.
Work with SCDOT and other organizations to advocate for improvements to the Pea
Black SRAC
House Landing in Georgetown County.
SCDNR
Other organizations
Upgrade facilities on Cedar Creek, including canoe inputs at Bannister’s Bridge and
Congaree National Park
Cedar Creek Road, to include safer, pull-through parking, updated interpretive/
wayfinding signage, and mileage markers to increase the safety of paddlers.
Upgrade the existing primitive campground with an updated, “green technology”
Congaree National Park
restroom facility and designate an additional primitive campsite along the Congaree
River that will be accessible by the Congaree River Blue Trail.
Continue to enhance local support facilities for existing and new trails.
Local/regional govts
Recreation departments
Other organizations
Issue 5: Provide additional education, outreach and promotion of available outdoor recreation opportunities
statewide – including recreational facilities, educational programs, trails for all types of uses, and camping
facilities – with a particular emphasis on reaching minorities, K-12 students and educators, lower income
residents, and persons with disabilities.
Continue to provide information and promote outdoor recreation opportunities
SCPRT
through its tourism website.
Continue to provide education and outreach to trail users through continued updates
SCPRT
to the SCTRAILS website, improved trail signs, interpretive waysides, and articles
that promote resource stewardship and compatibility among state park users.
Continue to implement the SC Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy with a SCDNR
significant emphasis on education and outreach such as National Hunting & Fishing
Other partners
Day, Project WET, Project WILD, hunter education, fishing rodeos, REEL Kids,
Take One Make One, youth hunts, Camp Wildwood, and Becoming an Outdoors
Woman.
Publish a trail booklet for the Lynches Scenic River.
SCDNR
Develop a river trail guide from Lee State Park to Lynches River County Park
SCDNR
through funding provided by a SC Trails grant.
Lynches SRAC
Continue to provide educational outreach to schools and civic groups, to include
Congaree National Park
providing information regarding outdoor recreation opportunities in at Congaree
National Park. Particular emphasis will be placed on underserved communities,
including minorities, persons with lower incomes, disabled persons, and the elderly.
Develop and publish an Historic Canoe Trail map for the South Carolina portion of
Duke Energy
the Catawba River that will identify access points and discuss the history of the area.
Catawba Indian Nation
SCPRT
SCDNR
SCDAH
Other organizations
Develop an information map and guide for the Congaree River Blue Trail segment
American Rivers
from Gervais Street in Columbia to US Hwy 601.
Congaree National Park
SCDNR
River Alliance
Friends of the Congaree
Work with the communities and other organizations to develop and print a
Great Pee Dee and Lower
community-based management plan.
Little Pee Dee SRAC
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SCORP Issue/Strategies
Issue 5: Continued…
Continue to promote the goals of the Edisto River Basin Project Report to include:
conservation and education programs aimed at landowners and local government/
business leaders, conducting annual “Stewardship Day” river cleanups, conducting
river/watershed festivals, and organizing projects to address water quality problems.
Continue to implement the goals and recommendations of the Ashley Scenic River
management plan to include conducting conservation education programs aimed at
landowners and local government leaders.
Install a new kiosk that details wildlife observation opportunities along the Carolina
Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge’s nine mile drive.
Develop an orientation video for the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge.
Install a directional road sign to the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge at
the intersection of Highway 151 and Highway 1 in McBee.
Update the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge web site as needed.
Continue to offer classes in mountain biking, kayaking, backpacking, ropes, climbing
and trail design at the Glendale Outdoor Leadership School established in 2007.
Provide additional education, outreach and promotion about available outdoor
recreation opportunities.
Responsibility
Friends of the Edisto
SCDNR
Other partners
Ashley SRAC
SCDNR
Other partners
CSNWR
CSNWR
CSNWR
SCDOT
CSNWR
PCF
Local/regional govts
Recreation departments
Other organizations
Issue 6: Promote increased collaboration between recreational facility managers and teachers on formal and
informal outdoor education opportunities.
Continue to provide the state-approved curriculum-based program Discover Carolina SCPRT
at many state parks, providing K-12 school students with hands-on educational
experiences in outdoor settings that foster stewardship, awareness and appreciation of
natural and cultural resources. Trails and recreational facilities in state parks provide
important access and resources for the Discover Carolina program.
Continue to provide information to educators and other recreational facility managers Congaree National Park
about educational opportunities at Congaree National Park.
Complete development of the Junior Trailblazer program – an in school program that
PCF
will teach fitness and outdoors skills and will culminate in a hike on the Palmetto
Partners
Trail. The program will begin operation in 2008 at two schools in the Richland
School District 1, and will be expanded around the State.
Promote increased collaboration between the Refuge and local schools on formal and
Carolina Sandhills
informal outdoor recreation opportunities.
National Wildlife Refuge
Collaborate with local school districts, schools and teachers on formal and informal
Local/regional govts
outdoor education opportunities.
Recreation departments
Other organizations
Issue 7: Provide or improve outdoor recreation facilities to enable greater accessibility and use by multiple age
groups and persons with disabilities.
Continue to improve accessibility to state park features and facilities for persons with SCPRT
disabilities as a component of the 5-year Comprehensive Permanent Improvement
Plan (CPIP).
Conduct an inventory to evaluate accessibility needs at all state parks.
SCPRT
Continue to improve boardwalk, campground, and picnic shelter access for visitors
Congaree National Park
with mobility impairments.
Where appropriate and feasible in new or expanded park and trail facilities, provide
All park and trail providers
reasonable accommodation for accessibility to physically challenged users of all ages.
Provide or improve outdoor recreation facilities to enable greater accessibility and use Local/regional govts
by multiple age groups and persons with disabilities.
Recreation departments
Other organizations
109
SCORP Issue/Strategies
Responsibility
Issue 8: Minimize conflicts between outdoor recreational activities that are not compatible through education,
regulation, and careful planning of new or expanded facilities and programs.
Continue to educate users about recreational uses related to state parks and continue
SCPRT
to plan, build and manage facilities and parks to avoid and reduce conflicts among
users and negative impacts to park resources.
Continue to educate park visitors on the multiple appropriate uses of Congaree
Congaree National Park
National Park facilities and enforce Park regulations regarding areas restricted to
certain uses.
Work to minimize conflicts between recreational activities that are not compatible.
Local/regional govts
Recreation departments
Other organizations
Issue 9: Provide and properly maintain adequate facilities for and access to a diverse range of outdoor recreation
activities, from traditionally popular activities such as boating and hunting to emerging activities such as rowing,
rock climbing, disc golf, and dog parks.
Continue to expand management of a diverse range of outdoor recreational activities,
SCPRT
including operation of the H. Cooper Black Field Trial and Recreation Area in
Chesterfield County that offers national level field trial services and retriever
competitions, as well as 20 miles of horse trails and camping.
Develop a traditional tools training and capacity for maintaining trails in federallyCongaree National Park
designated wilderness areas.
Continue to provide a range of opportunities for visitors to enjoy park resources on
Congaree National Park
foot and by canoe or kayak and continue to allow dogs on leashes on designated dirt
trails within the Park.
Construct a new wildlife observation tower at the Carolina Sandhills National
CSNWR
Wildlife Refuge Oxpen Lakes area.
Pave an extension road from the office/visitor center to Wildlife Drive at Carolina
CSNWR
Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge.
Annually maintain the three hiking trails at Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife
CSNWR
Refuge.
Assist with monitoring, maintenance and improvement of trails across the State.
Volunteer groups
Provide maintenance and upgrades to facilities at the Strom Thurmond/Clarks Hill
US Army Corps of
Dam, Clarks Hill Park Recreation Area, Scots Ferry Ramp, Modoc Campground,
Engineers
Parksville Recreation Area, Dordon Creek, Hawe Creek Campground, Leroys Ferry
Campground and Mount Carmel Campground through various site improvements that
include renovation and construction of picnic sites, sidewalk construction, playground
construction, improvements to parking areas, water line extension, courtesy dock
construction, lighting, fish cleaning station additions, beach development,
campground renovation and expansion, and entrance re-design.
Provide a diverse range of outdoor recreation activities, maintain existing facilities to
All organizations
established standards and consider closure or consolidation of under-maintained or
under-utilized facilities.
Issue 10: Require and/or encourage the provision of connectivity between trails, outdoor recreation facilities,
open space and residential development on all levels – local, regional and statewide.
Establish an improved, bike-friendly and accessible trail at Hunting Island State Park
SCPRT
that will provide better connectivity and access to the nature center, the south end of
Friends of Hunting Island
the island and to other areas of the Park.
Local governments
Explore recreational partnership opportunities, including the completion of a trail
SCPRT
connecting Kings Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain National Military Park and
NC State Parks
Crowder’s Mountain State Park in North Carolina.
Explore opportunities to capitalize on regional trail initiatives that will connect state
SCPRT
park properties with urban/regional trail systems and other public lands, such as plans Partners
for the Palmetto Trail, Greenville County trail initiatives, and the Carolina Thread
Trail.
110
SCORP Issue/Strategies
Responsibility
Issue 10: Continued…
Provide a dedicated source of funding assistance through the Community
Richland County
Conservation Grant Program to develop a greenways plan and to fund trails that
Conservation Commission
provide connectivity and public access.
PCF
Encourage the provision of connectivity between trails, outdoor recreation facilities,
Local/regional govts
open space and residential development through a wide range of means such as local
Recreation departments
or regional recreation plans, comprehensive plans, and transportation plans.
Other organizations
Issue 11: Create and encourage partnerships among government and non-profit agencies at all levels to ensure
coordination, reduce redundancies, provide training and technical assistance, and leverage resources to enable
additional outdoor recreation opportunities.
Continue to encourage partnerships with other land management agencies within the
SCPRT
state, non-profit organizations, and local agencies to promote the acquisition and
protection of outdoor recreational resources.
Support the Cradle of Democracy project for the protection and promotion of
SCPRT
Revolutionary War history in South Carolina.
PCF
NPS
US Forest Service
US Fish & Wildlife Serv.
Local tourism groups
Continue to work together to protect significant lands and recreation resources along
Utility providers
South Carolina’s rivers and lakes.
SCPRT
SCDNR
Local land trusts
Other organizations
Continue to lease access areas and other properties for the provision of recreation
Duke Energy
opportunities.
SCE&G
Santee Cooper
Seek additional corporate partnerships on new and expanded recreation and
Public agencies
educational facilities.
Continue to coordinate the Recreation Resources Forum on a periodic basis to bring
SCPRT
together recreation managers and planners from a variety of public recreation
resources.
Continue to lease land to and cooperate with state and local governments and private
US Army Corps of
interests for public access and other recreation opportunities on Lake Thurmond, Lake
Engineers
Russell, and Lake Hartwell.
Continue to work together to improve the scenic nature of designated scenic
SCDOT
highways.
SCPRT
Local/regional govts
Tourism groups
Participate in and encourage partnerships among other Federal, State and local
Congaree National Park
governments, non-profit groups and the corporate sector to ensure coordination,
provide shared training opportunities, and enable additional outdoor recreation
opportunities. Events such as NatureFest in April and SwampFest in October of each
year are examples of such partnership efforts.
Continue to expand upon opportunities made possible through formal and informal
Recreation providers
agreements to work together toward common recreational goals.
State/local governments
Other organizations
Issue 12: Encourage small business and eco-tourism opportunities to enhance local economic development and
to fill unmet outdoor recreational needs.
Continue to encourage nature-based tourism opportunities that promote economic
SCPRT
development and fill unmet recreational needs, though implementation of the NatureBased Tourism Plan.
111
SCORP Issue/Strategies
Issue 12: Continued…
Continue to implement the Great Falls Nature-Based Tourism Initiative and to seek
ways to expand business and eco-tourism opportunities through new resources
provided as part of hydro re-licensing, including a new park, new wildlife
management areas, and whitewater flows.
Responsibility
Town of Great Falls
Duke Energy
KVLT
SCDNR
SCPRT
Other partners
Congaree National Park
Continue to provide Commercial Use Authorization permits in to encourage small
businesses to help meet outdoor recreational needs in Congaree National Park such as
eco-camps, guided tour providers, for-profit educational institution programs, canoe
and kayak livery and rental services, and shuttle transportation services for Park
visitors.
Establish the High Hills Outdoor Center in Sumter County to promote hiking,
PCF
horseback riding, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, and history tours in Sumter
County.
Encourage small business and eco-tourism opportunities for economic development
Local/regional govts
and to fill unmet outdoor recreational needs through a wide range of means such as
Recreation departments
local or regional comprehensive plans, economic development plans, and tourism
Other organizations
plans.
Issue 13: Protect and acquire significant lands for natural and cultural resources and identify opportunities for
allowing public outdoor recreational use.
Continue to participate on the SCE&G Saluda Hydro Re-licensing stakeholder team
SCPRT
to actively promote the conservation of and public access to shoreline open space for
SCDNR
outdoor recreational use.
Lower Saluda SRAC
Continue to implement the Catawba-Wateree Re-licensing Agreement and advance
Duke Energy
included actions that protect shorelines and the provide public access to rivers and
Other stakeholders
lakes.
Continue to implement the State Park Service’s Vision for the 21st Century, which
SCPRT
includes acquisition and the development of partnerships to protect unique sites with
significant cultural, historical, and natural features. Sites to be targeted include those
with textile, African-American or Native American heritage; sites related to the
American Revolution; sites in the ACE Basin and the Catawba River Corridor; sites
on the Edisto Black, Saluda, and Little Pee Dee rivers; and sites along Lake Wateree,
Lake Murray, and the South Carolina coast.
Continue to focus on habitat protection as SCDNR’s top priority, including
SCDNR
implementation of the SC Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy.
Seek opportunities to expand the Heritage Trust Preserves where possible.
SCDNR
Continue to work with the Blue Ridge Partnership to protect habitat in the Upstate.
SCDNR
Continue to work to protect significant habitat throughout the State through the
SCDNR
Heritage Trust and Focus Area programs.
Partners
Create a protected lands buffer around Dungannon Heritage Preserve and Caw Caw
SCDNR
Interpretive Center.
Charleston County
Continue its efforts to acquire and protect remaining inholdings within its
Congaree National Park
Congressionally-authorized boundary.
Seek ways to protect and acquire significant lands for natural and cultural resources
Local/regional govts
allowing public outdoor recreational uses, through means such as land conservation
Recreation departments
and preservation programs, tax incentives, and dedication or donation of land, open
Other organizations
space or easements.
Issue 14: Protect shorelines (rivers, lakes, and beaches) and dedicate more waterfront lands for public
recreational use and access.
Continue to participate in the SCE&G Saluda and the Catawba-Wateree hydro reSCPRT
licensing processes to actively promote the conservation of and public access to
SCDNR
shoreline open space for outdoor recreational use.
Utilities
Other stakeholders
112
SCORP Issue/Strategies
Issue 14: Continued…
Update recreation plans for the Keowee-Toxaway Project, with an emphasis on
ensuring adequate public access for the future.
Continue to encourage utility companies and other landowners to conserve open
space on lakes and rivers.
Continue to seek public beach access opportunities and protect and maintain existing
public beach access at coastal state parks, moving facilities from eroding beachfronts
as practical and necessary.
Work to acquire properties in focus areas such as Cowasee, along the Congaree,
Wateree and Santee Rivers.
Continue to make riparian corridor protection a priority by focusing on acquiring key
parcels along the State’s rivers.
Evaluate the lower Lynches River from Lynches River County Park to the Great Pee
Dee for scenic river designation in 2008.
Evaluate the Catawba River from Lake Wyle Dam to Hwy 9 for scenic river
designation in 2008 and form an advisory council to work with the community and
other partners to update the Catawba River Management Plan.
Continue to implement the goals and recommendations of the Saluda River Corridor
Plan and Plan Update to include encouraging riparian land conservation and new
recreation opportunities.
Responsibility
Duke Energy
Other stakeholders
SCPRT
SCDNR
Utilities
SCPRT
SCDNR
SCDNR
SCDNR
SCDNR
Lower Saluda SRAC
SCDNR
SCPRT
SCE&G
City of Columbia
Irmo-Chapin Recreation
Commission
Other partners
Friends of the Edisto
SCDNR
Other partners
Ashley SRAC
SCDNR
Other partners
Continue to promote the goals of the Edisto River Basin Project Report to include
conservation and education programs aimed at landowners and local government/
business leaders and organizing projects to address water quality problems.
Continue to implement the goals and recommendations of the Ashley Scenic River
management plan to include advocating permitting and local planning decisions that
will protect river resources and seeking to improve river access above Colonial
Dorchester State Historic Site.
Continue to implement the policies of the Coastal Zone Management and Beachfront
SCDHEC OCRM
Management Acts.
Seek ways to protect shorelines and provide more waterfront access for outdoor
Local/regional govts
recreation use, through means such as the development of waterside parks, public
Recreation departments
beach access, comprehensive plans, zoning and land development regulations, land
Other organizations
conservation and protection programs, and riparian buffer regulations.
Issue 15: Promote green technologies and energy conservation techniques in the planning, design, construction
and operation of outdoor recreation facilities to reduce costs and conserve natural resources.
Continue to implement the State Park Service’s Vision for the 21st Century, which
SCPRT
includes measures that focus on resource stewardship, the employment of sustainable
management techniques, and the use of an ecosystem-based approach to land
management.
Incorporate a number of measures to conserve energy and resources including:
Congaree National Park
continued conversion of its indoor lighting to compact fluorescent and LED lighting
wherever possible; obtaining hybrid or clean-fuel vehicles for new purchases where
possible; seeking LEED certification for new construction; continued use of 50%
post-consumer recycled content paper and duplex printing as possible; and
continued partnership with Tri-County Electric Cooperative to purchase cleaner
energy sources.
113
SCORP Issue/Strategies
Issue 15: Continued…
Incorporate green technologies and the use of energy saving techniques in the
planning, design, construction and operation of outdoor recreation facilities.
114
Responsibility
Local/regional govts
Recreation departments
Other organizations
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120
APPENDIX A. RECREATION PARTICIPATION BY PLANNING
DISTRICT, 2005
South Carolina Recreation Participation & Preference Study, 2005
Technical Report
University of South Carolina, Institute for Public Service & Policy Research
for
South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism
121
Table 26. Appalachian Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
83.6
61.0
56.0
59.1
55.9
65.6
49.1
48.4
33.7
32.7
40.1
47.5
32.4
30.7
39.3
31.5
32.1
33.7
19.7
27.4
21.8
20.7
17.7
21.0
23.0
12.9
13.8
15.9
12.8
14.6
10.9
11.9
14.7
12.7
13.9
11.8
8.7
9.3
4.9
1.7
7.4
6.7
2.2
3.4
2.3
2.2
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Appalachian District include: Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville, Oconee,
Pickens and Spartanburg.
122
Table 27. Upper Savannah Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
88.9
70.6
52.8
65.5
49.7
53.5
50.4
49.9
28.8
39.0
50.6
29.0
30.8
25.8
40.1
21.0
43.8
35.9
21.9
29.6
17.3
16.0
18.2
26.0
12.9
14.5
10.2
18.5
9.4
19.6
21.5
9.3
12.7
11.4
5.7
7.6
4.9
4.7
3.8
2.2
5.1
5.6
2.5
3.2
2.2
1.3
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Upper Savannah District include: Abbeville, Greenwood, Edgefield,
Laurens, McCormick and Saluda.
123
Table 28. Catawba Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
82.7
73.0
60.0
58.4
55.5
56.6
60.4
55.1
43.9
42.1
43.4
42.6
37.3
28.6
30.6
30.7
27.6
28.1
20.3
26.7
23.9
20.4
26.0
18.8
28.7
25.4
12.0
16.2
10.5
14.1
19.2
18.4
11.5
15.4
13.6
12.9
10.1
13.3
10.6
3.3
10.6
4.8
3.9
2.2
1.7
0.7
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Catawba District include: Chester, Lancaster, Union and York.
124
Table 29. Central Midlands Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
82.8
68.7
68.5
52.8
70.7
54.1
52.6
50.1
50.6
45.4
37.6
35.3
44.2
60.4
33.0
42.6
34.3
26.8
22.7
20.2
28.9
24.7
28.9
17.7
19.9
25.1
11.5
16.7
16.9
9.7
16.4
10.5
11.3
6.6
9.7
12.9
10.5
7.8
12.8
2.5
5.5
6.9
2.3
0.4
1.7
0.4
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Central Midlands District include: Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry and
Richland.
125
Table 30. Lower Savannah Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
80.5
59.4
60.0
57.8
51.9
43.6
47.9
43.1
39.2
31.8
34.2
24.7
38.8
36.6
25.3
34.8
32.2
25.1
22.3
21.9
17.5
15.4
15.4
18.8
9.3
15.4
15.6
13.8
12.6
11.8
10.3
15.9
8.3
11.6
12.2
11.0
13.0
10.2
5.6
7.9
5.4
5.2
1.6
2.7
0.7
1.7
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Lower Savannah District include: Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell,
Calhoun and Orangeburg.
126
Table 31. Santee-Lynches Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
79.0
49.9
57.4
59.5
55.6
42.0
52.2
41.0
39.6
29.0
41.6
23.1
35.2
35.9
22.8
34.8
35.8
23.6
30.7
16.8
15.1
13.9
13.6
17.5
8.8
15.3
10.5
12.6
9.6
22.1
14.6
9.6
7.7
9.0
9.4
2.6
7.9
8.5
4.4
4.5
1.5
7.0
1.6
0.0
8.5
0.0
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Santee-Lynches District include: Clarendon, Lee, Kershaw and Sumter.
127
Table 32. Pee Dee Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
75.3
58.7
63.0
67.5
53.0
37.2
54.5
43.4
39.6
37.3
44.3
27.1
35.6
27.3
23.6
34.0
29.0
28.1
25.9
20.1
19.6
21.7
20.5
19.2
12.4
16.1
16.5
21.6
12.1
16.7
14.8
10.7
7.3
14.3
10.3
4.4
10.3
11.2
7.5
4.4
4.9
7.1
0.7
1.7
4.9
0.7
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Pee Dee District include: Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence,
Marion and Marlboro.
128
Table 33. Waccamaw Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
84.5
57.9
69.6
61.3
48.1
46.0
57.3
56.0
46.8
40.1
33.6
27.7
31.9
31.4
34.1
25.2
43.5
26.5
29.5
19.3
17.4
26.7
22.6
21.4
9.1
19.0
29.2
13.8
18.4
13.0
13.2
12.5
8.4
15.6
11.2
12.5
5.6
5.5
5.7
13.3
4.0
1.6
3.8
4.2
2.0
0.2
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Waccamaw District include: Horry, Georgetown and Williamsburg.
129
Table 34. Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
84.5
65.1
68.4
53.1
61.2
47.2
56.2
64.2
55.4
40.0
28.3
26.1
32.3
25.1
36.2
39.4
28.2
19.8
27.8
18.1
29.1
20.6
15.3
18.4
17.8
15.8
21.1
15.3
19.5
12.4
9.0
11.8
13.1
7.9
8.7
10.8
13.1
7.7
10.8
15.1
7.5
7.3
4.5
3.9
1.0
1.9
* Counties in the BCD District include: Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester.
130
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
Table 35. Lowcountry Planning District*
Statewide Recreation Participation 2005, Age 12 and Older
Percentage Participating
Activity
Walking for pleasure or exercise
Attending outdoor sporting events
Beach swimming/sunbathing
Driving for pleasure
Weights or exercise machines
Picnicking
Pool swimming
Visiting historical sites
Bicycling
Visiting a museum
Fresh water fishing
Visiting an unusual natural feature
Playing basketball
Visiting a zoo
Motorboating
Jogging/running
Watching wildlife
Lake/river swimming
Off-road vehicle riding
Camping
Playing football
Golf
Guided nature trail/study
Bird watching
Hiking
Playing volleyball
Salt water fishing
Playing baseball
Playing tennis
Hunting
Playing softball
Other shooting sports
Jetskiing
Attending an auto race
Driving a motorcycle for pleasure
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting
Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating
Horseback riding
Playing soccer
Shellfishing/shrimping
Waterskiing
Rock climbing, rappelling
Sailing
Geocaching or orienteering
Hunting dog field trials
In-line hockey
District
90.4
62.5
73.3
55.2
57.0
49.7
52.5
61.7
49.5
40.6
39.1
30.2
32.2
15.2
35.8
40.4
34.5
22.0
20.0
23.5
25.0
28.7
22.2
20.5
14.8
15.9
30.1
18.8
12.6
12.1
16.0
10.8
13.2
11.3
9.5
10.1
7.9
9.5
5.6
30.3
4.5
6.1
3.8
1.0
2.8
0.4
State
83.2
63.4
62.5
58.2
57.1
53.4
53.2
52.1
42.8
38.4
37.2
34.7
34.5
34.1
34.1
33.9
33.4
28.0
23.5
23.1
22.4
21.1
20.2
20.2
18.2
17.2
16.2
15.9
14.3
13.6
13.5
12.0
11.8
11.1
11.1
10.7
10.0
9.1
7.6
7.1
6.1
6.1
2.7
2.5
2.2
1.2
* Counties in the Lowcountry District include: Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper.
131
APPENDIX B. SOUTH CAROLINA HERITAGE PRESERVES
*Designated as of January 31, 2007
Preserves Open Year Round
1. Aiken Gopher Tortoise (1,492 acres, Aiken County) – The gopher tortoise is the State’s most
endangered reptile and a candidate for Federal listing. The northernmost population of
gopher tortoises in the United States is protected at this preserve. The preserve contains
numerous walking trails and hunting is allowed. Contact 803-755-2843.
2. Ashmore (1,031 acres, Greenville County) – A beautiful mature hardwood forest covers most
of this preserve, which is part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness and Recreation Area. A
hiking trail with beautiful views extends to a small lake that lies in the middle of the
preserve. Hunting is allowed. Contact 864-654-6738, Extension 15.
3. Bald Rock (163 acres, Greenville County) – As a popular overlook on the road to Caesar’s
Head, this preserve contains granite outcrops, seeps and water slides. The rock is beside US
276 and falls steeply to a forest below, which provides a spectacular view across the
foothills. Two rare plant species are found on the preserve. Contact 864-654-6738,
Extension 15.
4. Belvue Springs (28 acres, Greenville County) – This property was acquired to protect habitat
for the federally endangered bunched arrowhead and other rare plant species. Contact 803654-6738, Extension 15.
5. Bennett’s Bay (680 acres, Clarendon County) – Most of this Carolina bay is included in the
preserve and is one of the westernmost “peat-filled” bays in South Carolina. Peat is formed
when plant material, deposited in wetlands, does not completely decompose. The peat layer
and associated vegetation form a pocosin with a dense thicket of blueberries, gallberries, catbrier and other acid tolerant plants. Contact 803-755-2843.
6. Brasstown Creek (461 acres, Oconee County) – Located adjacent to Sumter National Forest
along the Tugaloo River, this preserve harbors the rare pitch pine heath plant community.
This community supports turkey beard and several other rare plant species. Periodic fire is
used to maintain this habitat. Hunting is allowed. Contact 864-654-6738, Extension 15.
7. Bunched Arrowhead (176 acres, Greenville County) – This preserve harbors the largest
remaining population of the endangered bunched arrowhead (Sagittaria fasciculate) plant
species. Declining throughout its range, populations of bunched arrowhead located here
represent the best chance for long-term survival of the species. A 1.25-mile hiking trail
guides the visitor through various habitats. Contact 864-654-6738, Extension 15.
8. Buzzard Roost (501 acres, Oconee County) – Covering Buzzard Roost Mountain and part of
Poor Mountain, this preserve is underlain by low-grade marble, which protrudes in various
outcrops and supports uncommon fern species. The 1.3-mile trail guides visitors to the top of
Buzzard Roost and to the rare Table Mountain pine plant community, which supports rare
species and is fire dependant. Hunting is allowed. Contact 864-654-6738 Ext. 15.
132
9. Caper’s Island (1,203 acres, Charleston County) – A classical barrier island with a variety of
habitats and rare species. Visitors may observe alligators, eagles, nesting osprey and wading
birds in the brackish water impoundments. The island is accessed by boat from the inlets at
the north and south end or at the dock on the south end. Managed by SCDNR’s Marine
Resources Division, primitive camping is allowed by permit. Contact 843-953-9360.
10. Cartwheel Bay (568 acres, Horry County) – One of only a few Carolina bay-longleaf pine
savannah complexes in SC. It provides habitat for 9 native orchid species and three rare
plant species, including the Venus’ flytrap. Managers used prescribed fire to maintain the
rare habitats. Hunting is allowed. Contact 843-546-3226.
11. Cathedral Bay (58 acres, Bamberg County) – A pristine example of a mature pond cypress
plant community. The rise and fall of the water level in the bay is controlled by rainfall,
evapotranspiration, infiltration, and possibly other factors not yet understood. This natural
fluctuation provides habitats used by a variety of amphibians, which use the ponds as
breeding sites. Contact 803-755-2843.
12. Chandler (253 acres, Greenville County) – This preserve provides beautiful views from a
large granite outcrop. A half-mile trail also passes through a Virginia pine-hardwood plant
community that shows evidence of natural succession through storm damage. The property
provides an excellent area for viewing woodpeckers and skinks. Hunting is allowed.
Contact 864-654-6738 Extension 15.
13. Chestnut Ridge (1,886 acres, Greenville County) – Acquisition of this property by several
conservation organizations helped safeguard 21,000 acres. The upper part of Chestnut Ridge
contains a mixture of mature hardwood forests dominated by either mixed species of oaks or
diverse cove hardwood species. The property protects two rare animal species and 7 rare
plant species. Hunting is allowed. Contact 864-654-6738, Extension 15.
14. Childsbury (90 acres, Berkeley County) – Founded in 1707, Childsbury and the adjacent
Strawberry Landing (est. 1705) are examples of an early frontier settlement away from the
port of Charleston. The area is an important site for interpreting early contact among
Native Americans, African Americans and Euro Americans. Features include a ferry
landing, shipwrecks, homes, a tavern, a racetrack, a free school and a general store.
Contact 803-734-3753.
15. Clear Creek (19 acres, Greenville County) – This preserve protects a large population of
the federally endangered bunched arrowhead plant species. Contact 864-654-6738,
Extension 15.
16. Congaree Bluffs (201 acres, Calhoun County) – Containing steep, undisturbed bluffs
bordering the Congaree River, this preserve harbors significant stands of American beech,
oak-hickory and bottomland hardwoods. No comparable sites exist in the coastal plain of
South Carolina. More than 100 species of trees, shrubs and woody vines have been
identified from the ridge base to the crest of the bluffs. Contact 803-755-2843.
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17. Congaree Creek (641 acres, Lexington County) – Four highly significant archaeological
sites occur on this preserve. They include a South Appalachian-Mississippian Indian
village, a 10-12,000 year old Paleoindian campsite, the18th century town site of Saxe
Gotha, and another site that spans all of these time periods. The 6-mile Guignard
Brickworks Loop Trail is nationally recognized as a Millennium Trail. Contact 803-7343753.
18. Crosby Oxypolis (32 acres, Colleton County) – One of the best sites known for the federally
endangered plant species, Canby’s dropwort (Oxypolis canbyi). This species occurs in
habitat formed by a perched water table in the remaining portion of a Carolina bay. Contact
843-546-3226.
19. Daw’s Island (1,881 acres, Beaufort County) – This island contains four Late Archaic
Period shell rings dating to 4,500 years ago. Twenty-three other sites ranging from 10,000
BC to AD 500 are also present on the Island. A primitive campsite is available by permit
and a sea kayak trail guide is under development. For more information or a camp permit,
call 803-734-3893.
20. Ditch Pond (117/179 acres, Aiken/Barnwell Counties) – Acquired to protect a Carolina
bay, the property also provides habitat for seven rare plant species. First documented in
1973, Ditch Pond is one of the few Carolina bays in the State that remains intact. Contact
803-755-2843.
21. Dungannon Plantation (643 acres, Charleston County) – A freshwater reserve was built on
Dungannon Plantation in the 1800's to supply rice fields downstream. The reserve now
provides nesting habitat for federally endangered wood storks, ospreys, anhingas, great
egrets, and great blue herons. Managers plan to develop a handicapped accessible
boardwalk and viewing blind. Hunting is allowed. Contact 843-546-3226.
22. Eastatoe Creek (374 acres, Pickens County) – This steep mountain gorge features an old
growth hemlock forest, a rainbow trout stream and rare ferns that are maintained by the
creek’s moist spray in the “narrows.” Primitive camping and fires are allowed in
designated areas. Found within Jocassee Gorges, the preserve is managed by the DNR
Wildlife Management Section. Hunting is allowed. Contact 864-654-6738 Ext. 15.
23. Fort Frederick (3 acres, Beaufort County) – This fortification was built on the Beaufort
River by the British in the early 1700's. The remaining foundation shows an outline of this
small structure. A wall, facing the river, was lined with cannons and the interior held a
barracks and magazine. Contact 803-734-3753.
24. Fort Lamar (14 acres, Charleston County) – Documented as the 2nd most important Civil
War site in the State, this fort was the locale of a fierce battle in which a Confederate force
of 1,250 defeated 3,500 Union troops on June 16, 1862. Brochures and self-guided hiking
trails are available at the preserve. Contact 803-734-3753.
25. Forty Acre Rock (1,587 acres, Lancaster County) – A diverse assemblage of rare habitats
and endangered plant species adapted to the extremes in moisture and temperature, typical
of a flat rock plant community. A 4.5-mile hiking trail guides visitors over the rock, along
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a piedmont stream and to a beaver pond boardwalk. Hunting is allowed. Contact 803-4199374.
26. Glassy Mountain (65 acres, Pickens County) – One of a few relatively undisturbed
piedmont monadnocks remaining in South Carolina. This unusual land form provides a
spectacular view and harbors several rare plant species. Contact 864-654-6738, Extension
22.
27. Great Pee Dee River (2,725 acres, Darlington County) – A mature piedmont fIoodplain
forest is preserved on this property, which includes more than 7 miles of river frontage and
provides habitats for four State threatened species and several archaeological sites. Visitors
can participate in recovery efforts every March during “Archaeology Week”. Hunting is
allowed. Contact 803-734-3893.
28. Green’s Shell Enclosure (3 acres, Beaufort County) – An earthen and oyster shell ground
feature of late prehistory, during the Mississippian Period (Irene Phase C. 1300 AD), marks
the fortified wall of an Indian village. It is the only feature of this type known to exist in
the South Carolina. Contact 803-734-3753.
29. Henderson (426 acres, Aiken County) – The rare longleaf pine-scrub oak sandhills
ecosystem is preserved on this property. The 1.4-mile hiking trail guides visitors through
much of this habitat. Controlled burns are undertaken regularly to maintain and enhance
habitat for rare species. Contact 803-755-2843.
30. Janet Harrison Highpond (30 acres, Aiken County) – This small preserve provides the
only protection for the federally endangered harperella, known in only three sites in South
Carolina. A depression meadow plant community also provides habitat for 5 other rare
plant species. Managers are gradually converting this highpond back to a natural condition,
which will expand the desired habitat. Contact 803-755-2843.
31. Laurel Fork (1,000 acres, Pickens County) – This mountain property features an old
growth hemlock forest, streams that contain rainbow trout and rare plant species. It is
bisected by the “Foothills Trail,” where backpacking and primitive camping is allowed.
Laurel Fork lies within the Jocassee Gorges, which is managed by the DNR Wildlife
Management Section. Hunting is allowed. Contact 864-654-6738, Extension 15.
32. Lewis Ocean Bay (9,343 acres, Horry County) – At least 20 Carolina bays are found on this
preserve, which provides habitat for Venus’ flytrap, yellow pitcher plants, native orchids,
black bear, bald eagles, and red-cockaded woodpeckers. Visitors will find the most plant
diversity along the ecotones at the edge of the bays. In this nutrient poor environment,
some plant species survive by eating insects. Hunting is allowed. Contact 843-546-3226.
33. Little Pee Dee (3,488/6,738 acres, Marion/Horry Counties) – Consisting of 5 separate tracts
(Little Pee Dee, Tilghman, Ward, Dargan and Upper Gunters Island) this preserve protects
more than 17 miles of river frontage. Predominant natural communities include cypressgum swamps, bottomland hardwood forests and fluvial sand ridges, which provide habitats
for rare species. A river trail guide is available and river camping is allowed. Hunting is
allowed. Contact 843-546-3226.
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34. Little Pee Dee State Park Bay (301 acres, Dillon County) – The Heritage Trust Program
acquired 301 acres, immediately adjacent to the north end of Little Pee Dee State Park, to
protect this undisturbed Carolina bay. It is managed by SCPRT, but there are no access
facilities or trails at the Bay. Contact 843-774-8872.
35. Longleaf Pine (843 acres, Lee County) – Composed primarily of longleaf pine savannah
interspersed with pond cypress depressions, two federally endangered species occur here:
the red-cockaded woodpecker and Canby’s dropwort. A pine savannah habitat is
maintained by prescribed fire and mechanical roller chopping. Numerous wildflower
species can be readily observed during spring, summer, or fall. Hunting is allowed.
Contact 803-419-9374.
36. Lynchburg Savanna (291 acres, Lee County) – Another fine example of a longleaf pine
savannah. This habitat is considered one of the most biologically diverse and imperiled
ecosystems in North America. As a measure of diversity, one may note that at least 6
different carnivorous plant species have been found on this preserve. Numerous wildflower
species can be readily observed in spring, summer, or fall. Hunting is allowed. Contact
803-734-3893.
37. Old Island (400 acres, Beaufort County) – Composed of relict dune ridges interspersed
with freshwater wetlands, Old Island exhibits a mosaic of diverse habitats. This
undisturbed coastal island is accessible only by boat and visitors must wade across salt
marsh to reach the area. Contact 843-546-3226.
38. Pacolet River (278 acres, Spartanburg County) - Two Native American soapstone quarries,
thought to be the best preserved in the State, are found on this preserve. Bowls, disks,
banner stones and pipes were made here from soapstone, during the Late Archaic Period
(3,000 - 11,000 BC). Contact 803-734-3753.
39. Peachtree Rock (155 acres, Lexington County) – The largest sandstone outcrops in the
State are found here, as well as the only waterfall in the Coastal Plain and a longleaf pine
ecosystem. More than 245 different plant species have been identified on the property. An
adjoining 305-acre tract owned by The Nature Conservancy is also part of the preserve.
Contact 803-254-9049.
40. Peter’s Creek (160 acres, Spartanburg County) – The second largest known population of
the dwarf-flowered heartleaf is found in this piedmont cove forest. Rolling topography, an
old mill dam, a pond, two creeks, and walking trails make this site a pleasant place to visit.
For more information, call 864-654-6738, Ext. 15.
41. Poinsett Bridge (120 acres, Greenville County) – Built in 1820, this arched stone bridge is
listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Part of the State Road from Charleston to
North Carolina, it was designed by noted statesman and botanist Joel Poinsett. Contact
803-734-3753.
42. Rock Hill Blackjacks (291 acres, York County) – This small area is all that remains of the
once widespread prairie system in South Carolina. It is the only location where the
federally endangered Schweinitz’s sunflower enjoys permanent protection. Three rare plant
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communities and 21 rare plant species are found on this property. A hiking trail is in place
for visitors. Hunting is allowed. Contact 803-419-9374.
43. Savage Bay (110 acres, Kershaw County) – The preserve is named in honor of Henry
Savage, a noted naturalist, former Heritage Trust Advisory Board member, and author of
The Mysterious Carolina Bays. Water in the pond cypress interior of this Carolina bay
fluctuates throughout the year and provides a beautiful backdrop for wading birds and
ducks. Contact 803-419-9374.
44. Savannah River Bluffs (84 acres, Aiken County) – From the high bluff on this preserve,
one can see the rare rocky shoals spider lily and remnants of ancient Native American
fishing weirs. A foot trail will guide the visitor through the only permanently protected
habitat for the federally endangered relict trillium. Contact 803-755-2843.
45. Segars-McKinnon (795 acres, Darlington County) – Occupying the floodplain and upland
on the north side of Black Creek, this preserve provides habitat for 6 rare plant species and
4 rare plant communities. A footbridge across Black Creek connects the preserve with
Kalmia Gardens, a botanical complex in Hartsville. Contact 843-383-8145 or 803-4199374.
46. Shealy’s Pond (62 acres, Lexington County) – This old mill pond is surrounded by a white
cedar bog that supports several rare plant species. This is one of only 3 known localities for
the globally rare Rayner’s blueberry. The preserve also harbors interesting carnivorous
plants, such as sundews, pitcher plants and bladderworts. Contact 803-755-2843.
47. South Bluff (24 acres, Beaufort County) – Estimated to be 3,000-5,000 years old, this shell
ring complex is one of only 15 known sites in the State. Lack of erosion and protection
from vandalism makes South Bluff one of the best-preserved shell ring sites in South
Carolina. Contact 803-734-3753.
48. St. Helena Sound (7,434 acres, Colleton County & 2,765 acres Beaufort County (10,199
acres total) – Six islands (Big, Warren, Ashe, Beet, Otter, and South Williman) comprise
this preserve, which lies at the southern end of the 144,000-acre ACE Basin complex.
These islands serve as core research areas for the National Estuarine Research Reserve
System. They are open for daytime use year round and overnight camping is allowed from
November through April. Access points may be limited due to wildlife resting and nesting
locations. Pets are not allowed. Hunting is allowed. These islands are managed by the
DNR Marine Resources Division. Contact 843-844-8822.
49. Steven’s Creek (332/102 acres, McCormick/Edgefield Counties) – Steven’s Creek Heritage
Preserve is comprised of a north facing (and therefore moist) bluff that harbors 15 rare plant
species. It is the only permanently protected site for the federally endangered Webster’s
salamander. A loop trail will guide the visitor through a mature hardwood forest typical of
the Appalachian Mountains. Hunting is allowed. Contact 864-654-6738, Extension 15.
50. Tillman Sand Ridge (1,422 acres, Jasper County) – This preserve harbors the largest
population of the State’s endangered gopher tortoise. Regular controlled burns help to
expand the longleaf pine/scrub oak plant community that is necessary for the tortoise to
survive. Hunting is allowed. Contact 843-546-3226.
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51. Victoria Bluff (1,113 acres, Beaufort County) – Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve is
composed of the rare pine-saw palmetto flatwoods plant community. Dotted with small wet
depressions, this property provides habitat for the rare pond spice. Fire breaks serve as
potential hiking trails. Hunting is allowed. Contact 843-546-3226.
52. Waccamaw River (5,387 acres, Horry County) – This preserve borders much of the
Waccamaw River from Red Bluff to the North Carolina State line. The mature bottomland
hardwood forests and white sand beaches provide habitat for rare species. A river guide is
available. River camping and hunting are allowed on the preserve. Contact 843-546-3226.
53. Wadakoe Mountain (37 acres, Pickens County) – Containing soils high in magnesium and
calcium, this preserve provides habitat for nine rare plant species not commonly found in
the Southern Appalachians. Contact 864-654-6738 Ext 15.
54. Watson-Cooper (1,707 acres, Greenville County) – This preserve is part of the Mountain
Bridge Wilderness and Recreation Area. It contains the only protected mountain bog
habitat in South Carolina and supports several rare plant species. Backpacking, camping
and hunting is allowed. Contact 864-654-6738 ext.15.
55. Woods Bay (338/105/27 acres, Clarendon/Sumter/Florence Counties) – Several highly
significant properties bordering Woods Bay State Park have been obtained to protect the
entire Woods Bay. It ranks as the 5th most significant in South Carolina and much of the
sand rim and adjacent land is not protected. SCPRT and DNR will continue efforts to
protect a natural buffer around this bay. The park offers a visitors center, boardwalk, canoe
trail, canoe rentals, and nature programs. Contact 843-659-4445.
Preserves Open Seasonally
The Heritage Trust Program has permanently protected six sandy shoals along our coast to
maintain suitable nesting habitat for seabirds and shorebirds. Birds nesting in these small areas
number in the thousands. Any disturbance during nesting will adversely affect nesting success.
For that reason, these shoal areas are closed to public use from April 1 thru October 15, but
may be viewed from boats during these months. Visitors may access these shoals during winter
months. These shoals may disappear, reappear and move as they go through cycles of erosion
and accretion. Pets are not allowed. For more information, call 843-546-3226.
56. Bay Point Shoal (1 acre, Beaufort County) – This shoal is located about a half mile south
of Bay Point Island and serves as an important seabird resting and nesting site.
57. Bird Key-Stono (20 acres, Charleston County) – A small island in the mouth of the Stono
River harboring one of the largest brown pelican rookeries on the east coast.
58. Crab Bank (22 acres, Charleston County) – Seabird nesting at this sandy shoal was first
recorded in 1979. In 1997, the site hosted the second largest seabird colony in South
Carolina, with a total of 3,375 nests.
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59. Deveaux Bank (15 acres, Charleston County) – Deveaux Bank may be the most famous
shorebird rookery in South Carolina, as it was first documented in the 1930's. This shoal
has disappeared and reappeared several times due to storms and erosion.
60. Joiner Bank (1 acre, Beaufort County) – Considered to be one of the most significant
seabird nesting sites in Beaufort County, Joiner Bank provides habitat to large colonies of
black skimmers, federally endangered piping plovers and other seabirds.
61. North Santee Bar (1 acre, Georgetown County) – Located at the mouth of the North Santee
River, this small shoal provides nesting and resting habitat for black skimmers, laughing
gulls, least terns, piping plovers and other seabirds.
Preserve Visitation by Prearranged Tour Only
Public visitation to some Heritage Preserves is limited to pre-arranged guided tours because of
legal limitations on access or to prevent the unauthorized collection of artifacts at
archaeological sites. The following six preserves are limited to guided tours and a phone
number to call for additional information and reservations is listed.
62. Bear Branch (173 acres, Aiken County) – B.F. Landrum started making pottery here in
1848 and passed the tradition on to his son, who manufactured pottery here into the 1920's.
The property contains an archaeological catalogue of the only true folk pottery in the Old
Edgefield District. Contact 803-734-3753.
63. Buzzard Island (1 acre, Charleston County) – This prehistoric shell ring, from the Late
Archaic and Early Woodland Periods (3,000-5,000 BP), represents the earliest look at
coastal dwellers in South Carolina. Contact 803-734-3753.
64. Gopher Branch (11 acres, Aiken County) – This archaeological preserve includes
Reverend John Landrum’s home and his alkaline glaze stoneware pottery kiln. He is
believed to be the founder of the alkaline glaze stoneware tradition in the Old Edgefield
District. Contact 803-734-3753.
65. Long Branch Bay (51 acres, Barnwell County) – This Carolina bay has been altered, but
still harbors 4 rare plant species. Its interior is composed of an open grass/sedge meadow
plant community that is intermittently flooded. Contact 803-755-2843.
66. Nipper Creek (90 acres, Richland County) – This preserve permanently protects a portion
of the oldest and most productive archaeological site in South Carolina. The property
harbors remains of prehistoric cultures dating from 10,000 BC to AD 500. Contact 803734-3753.
67. Stoney Creek Battery (1 acre, Beaufort County) – The fortifications here were part of the
Confederate southern coastal defenses constructed under the direction of General Robert E.
Lee in 1861 and 1862. It is believed that the fortifications were not continuously manned;
instead, a picket of one or more men would be periodically posted at Stoney Creek to warn
of a Union advance into the area. Contact 803-734-3753.
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68. Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center (18,086 acres, Georgetown County) – The Tom Yawkey
Wildlife Center includes Cat Island, South Island, Sand Island, and North Island. This
diverse complex of managed wetlands, tidal marshes, island beaches, maritime forests and
pine flatwoods hosts a wide diversity of game and nongame species, including threatened
and endangered species. Contact 843-546-6814.
Limited Access Facilities
Some Heritage Preserve properties have been recently acquired and do not yet have access
facilities for the public. Others are difficult to access or contain habitat types that are available
at existing preserves with access facilities. The following properties fall into this category
69. Blackwell Bunched Arrowhead (16 acres, Greenville County) – This small preserve, along
with two registration agreements, protects the federally endangered bunched arrowhead
plant species. The property is open to public visitation, but is difficult to access. The
nearby Bunched Arrowhead Heritage Preserve is recommended as an alternate site for
visitation.
70. Fish Dam Ford (138 acres, Chester County) – The property represents a Revolutionary
War battle site where American forces defeated the British on November 7, 1782. It was
one in a series of battles that turned the tide of the war and led to the British surrender at
Yorktown, Virginia. Public access facilities will be constructed in the future.
TOTAL ACREAGE PROTECTED:
81,409
For all preserves: The phone number listed (if any) is a field office that is manned
sporadically. A message may be left there or call 803-734-3893 during business hours.
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APPENDIX C. LIST OF SAMPLE GRANTS AND FUNDING SOURCES FOR OUTDOOR
RECREATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA
Funding for outdoor recreation projects and operations is often pieced together from diverse sources, including Federal appropriations,
State funds, grants, and corporate and private donations. Outdoor recreation will increasingly rely on public-private partnerships and
innovative cost-sharing and leveraging of limited funds. The following table lists some of the current finding sources that support
outdoor recreation and related interests.
SOURCE
American Express
TYPE
Corporate
PROGRAM/AREAS OF INTEREST
Preservation of natural, cultural and built environment
American Forest Foundation
Foundation
American Hiking Society
Foundation
CONTACT INFORMATION
http://home3.americanexpress.com/corp/gb/t
hemes.asp
www.plt.org/cms/pages/21_22_18.html
Asphalt Rubber Technology
Service/SC DHEC and
Clemson University
Bikes Belong Coalition
Foundation
Project Learning Tree environmental education program
funds “learning-by-doing” environmental neighborhood
improvement projects
National Trails Endowment provides funding to
grassroots organizations working to establish, protect,
and maintain foot trails
Recreational projects to include sports surfaces, sports infill
systems, playgrounds, running tracks, walking trails, etc.
that use recycled rubber coverings and materials
Develop bicycle facilities and encourage biking
Captain Planet Foundation
Foundation
Environmental projects for children and youth
www.captainplanetfdn.org
Coastal Community
Foundation
Community Foundation of
Greater Greenville
Conservation Fund - American
Greenways Awards
Environmental Protection
Agency - Environmental
Education Grants
Fish America Foundation/
American Sportfishing Assoc
Foundation for Boating Safety
and Clean Water
Foundation
Multiple environmental and conservation programs in 8
coastal counties from Beaufort to Georgetown
Environment and multiple areas through donor advised
funds
Support planning and implementation of community
greenways
Environmental education projects to enhance the public's
awareness, knowledge, and skills to make informed and
responsible decisions that affect environmental quality
Projects that enhance fish populations, restore habitat,
improve water quality and advance fisheries research
Improve boating environment through education and
outreach - Clean Water Grants and Boating Safety Grants
www.ccfgives.org
State
Foundation
Foundation
Federal
Association
Foundation
141
www.americanhiking.org/alliance/fund.html
www.ces.clemson.edu/arts/application.html
www.bikesbelong.org/grants
www.cfgg.com
www.conservtaionfund.org
www.epa.gov/ogd/grants/information.htm
www.fishamerica.org/grants/index.html
www.boatus.com/foundation/Grants/index.h
tm
SOURCE
Fund for Wild Nature
TYPE
Foundation
Future Fisherman Foundation National Fishing and Boating
Education Grants
Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelly
Foundation
General Mills – Champions for
Healthy Kids Grants
Home Depot
Foundation
J. Paul Getty Trust
Foundation
Lowcountry Conservation Loan
Fund
Community
Foundation
Fund
Corporate
Lowe’s
Foundation
Corporate
Corporate
Mary Flagler Cary Charitable
Trust
Foundation
Merck Family Fund
Foundation
Mott Foundation
Foundation
National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation
Corporate and
Foundation
PROGRAM/AREAS OF INTEREST
Environmental Action Grants support campaigns to save
and restore native species and wild ecosystems, including
actions to defend wilderness and biological diversity
Funds physical education teachers in K-12 schools to
incorporate fishing/ boating activities into the broader
school curriculum
Environmental initiatives in the SC Lowcountry region
CONTACT INFORMATION
www.fundwildnature.org/index.html
Projects that encourage enhanced nutrition and physical
activity for young people
Community Trees grant program supports efforts
incorporate the strategic use of trees and landscape into
community development plans
Architectural Conservation Grants support organizations in
preserving buildings, sites, and designed landscapes of
outstanding architectural, historical, and cultural
significance
Low-cost, interim financing to pre-approved non-profit
conservation organizations to protect lands with significant
ecological, wildlife, scenic and recreational value
Toolbox for Education program funds school-based projects
that can include outdoor classroom and nature trail projects
Supports collaborative efforts to protect barrier islands,
estuaries and coastal wetlands and forests at selected sites
along the Atlantic coastline from Maryland to South
Carolina
Funds restoration and protection of the natural
environment; strengthening the social fabric and
physical landscape of the urban community with focus on
Southern Appalachian ecosystems and southeastern
wetlands and coastal forests
Projects that advance the conservation and restoration of
freshwater ecosystems in North America, with emphasis on
the Great Lakes and southeastern US
Five-Star Restoration Challenge Grant Funds diverse local
partnerships for wetland, riparian, and coastal habitat
restoration
www.generalmills.com/corporate/commitme
nt/champions.aspx
www.homedepotfoundation.org/support_tre
es_apply.html
142
http://futurefisherman.org/programs/pegran
ts.php
www.gddf.org
www.getty.edu/grants/
www.ccfgives.org/funding_apply.html
www.toolboxforeducation.com/
www.carytrust.org
www.merckff.org
www.mott.org/Home/about/programs/enviro
nment/ecosystems.aspx
www.nfwf.org
SOURCE
National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation/Wal-Mart
TYPE
Corporate and
Foundation
National Park Service
Federal
National Park Service
Federal
National Park Service
Federal
National Science Foundation
Federal
National Trust for Historic
Preservation
Foundation
National Trust for Historic
Preservation
Robert Wood Johnson
Foundation
Foundation
SC Conservation Bank
State
SC Department of Archives &
History
State
PROGRAM/AREAS OF INTEREST
Land Conservation Grants provide for projects that
conserve important habitat for fish, wildlife, and plants
through acquisition of interest in real property
American Battlefield Protection Program promotes the
identification, preservation and interpretation of
significant historic battlefield land or historic
sites associated with wars on American soil
Rivers and Trails Program works with community groups
and local, State, and Federal government agencies to
conserve rivers, preserve open space, and develop trails and
greenways through technical assistance
Challenge Cost-Share Program supports participation of
communities, local agencies, and organizations to preserve
natural, recreational, and cultural resources on NPS lands –
including resource management, resource inventory and
monitoring, scientific research, interpretive exhibit
enhancement, historic site restoration, trail segment
reconstruction, stabilization, rehabilitation, and trail safety
improvements
Formal and informal environmental education projects that
develop and implement informal learning experiences
designed to increase interest, engagement, and
understanding of science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics by individuals of all ages and backgrounds
Johanna Favrot Fund awards matching grants to non-profit
organizations and public agencies grants for projects that
contribute to preservation or recapture an authentic sense of
place
Preservation Services Fund grants support for preservation
planning and education efforts
Various Active Living programs to support community
recreation and physical activity
Supports outright purchase of a property or the acquisition
of an easement to protect a property for conservation or
historic preservation purposes
Historic Preservation Grant program for survey and
planning and stabilization efforts
143
CONTACT INFORMATION
www.nfwf.org/programs/acresforamerica/rf
p.cfm
www.nps.gov/history/hps/abpp/
www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/whowear
e/wwa_who_we_are.htm
www.nps.gov/chal/sp/jchalapp.htm
www.nsf.gov
www.nationaltrust.org/funding/nonprofit.ht
ml#funds
www.nationaltrust.org/help/grants.html
www.rwjf.org
http://sccbank.sc.gov
www.state.sc.us/scdah/fedbro.htm
SOURCE
SC Department of Parks,
Recreation and Tourism
TYPE
State
SCPRT
State
SCPRT
Federal
SCPRT
Federal
SCPRT
State
SCPRT
Federal
SCPRT
State
SC Department of
Transportation
SC Forestry Commission
US Fish and Wildlife Service
Federal
State
Federal
PROGRAM/AREAS OF INTEREST
Tourism Partnership Fund (TPF) grants provide financial
assistance to qualified partners for tourism marketing
initiatives that attract visitors to and encourage visitor
spending in South Carolina
Parks and Recreation Development (PARD) Grants are for
local government or special purposes district entities within
each county which provide recreational opportunities
Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants are used to
build or improve trails across South Carolina for both
motorized and non-motorized recreational trail use
Heritage Corridor Development Grants assist in
developing, implementing, and maintaining a successful
heritage tourism attraction or program that benefits
residents and attracts visitors to the area
Recreation Land Trust (RELT) Fund supports acquisition
of property for public recreation
Land & Water Conservation Fund (LCWF) Grants support
acquisition and development of outdoor recreation areas for
public use
Product Development Grant provides funding for the
construction of specific projects that are well planned and
meet the tourism development goals
Transportation Enhancement Grants enhance the
transportation experience and include acquisition of scenic
or historic sites; historic preservation; rehabilitation and
operation of historic transportation properties;
archaeological research/planning; scenic or historic
highway programs; establishment of transportation
museums; landscaping and streetscape improvements
Community Forestry Grants support inventories, training
and continuing education, ordinance development, planting
and other related activities to improve public tree planting,
protection and maintenance
US Standard Grants Program is a competitive, matching
grants program that supports public-private partnerships in
acquisition, establishment, enhancement and restoration of
wetlands and wetland-associated uplands
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CONTACT INFORMATION
www.scprt.com/ourpartners/grants/tmpp.aspx
www.scprt.com/ourpartners/grants/pard.aspx
www.scprt.com/ourpartners/grants/trails.aspx
www.scprt.com/ourpartners/grants/heritagegrant.aspx
www.scprt.com/ourpartners/grants/relt.aspx
www.scprt.com/ourpartners/grants/lwcf.aspx
www.scprt.com/ourpartners/grants/pdgp.aspx
www.dot.state.sc.us/community/tep.html
www.state.sc.us/forest/urban
www.fws.gov/birdhabitat/Grants/NAWCA/
Standard/US/index.shtm
SOURCE
USFWS
TYPE
Federal
US Golf Association
Association
US Soccer Foundation
Foundation
Waccamaw Community
Foundation
Wild Birds Unlimited/
National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation
Foundation
Corporate
and Federal
Wildlife Forever
Foundation
1772 Foundation
Foundation
PROGRAM/AREAS OF INTEREST
Private Stewardship Grants provide assistance on a
competitive basis to private individuals and groups engaged
in private, voluntary conservation efforts that benefit
species listed or proposed as endangered or threatened
Introduces the game of golf to disadvantaged students
Enhance and grow the sport of soccer through field
improvements, program development, and building new
fields
Multiple project areas in Horry and Georgetown Counties
Pathways to Nature Conservation Fund supports projects
such as boardwalks, viewing platforms and blinds,
education, interactive exhibits located within the National
Wildlife Refuge System
Challenge Grants target habitat restoration and
acquisition, research and management, and educational
projects
Preservation and enhancement of American historical
entities, with particular interest in
farming, industrial development, transportation and unusual
historical buildings
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CONTACT INFORMATION
www.fws.gov/endangered/grants/private_st
ewardship/index.html
www.usga.org/aboutus/foundation/grants/g
rants.html
www.ussoccerfoundation.org/
www.waccamawcf.org
www.pathwaystonature.com
www.wildlifeforever.org/grants/overview.a
spx
www.1772foundation.org
APPENDIX D. Summary of Federal Legislation Requiring Outdoor
Recreation Planning Coordination
LEGISLATION
Federal Outdoor
Recreation
Coordination Act
(PL 88-29)
Federal Water Project
Recreation Act
(PL 89-72)
Water Resources
Planning Act
(PL 89-80)
National Historic
Preservation Act
(PL 89-665)
Wild and Scenic
Rivers Act
(PL 90-542)
National Trails
System Act
(PL 90-543)
Bankhead-Jones Farm
Tenant Act
(PL 75-210)
Emergency Wetlands
Act of 1986
(PL 99-645)
PURPOSE
Provides for coordination of Federal activities related to outdoor recreation,
and for developing a nationwide outdoor recreation plan. The Act authorizes
the Secretary of the Interior to formulate and maintain a comprehensive
nationwide outdoor recreation plan, taking into consideration the plans of the
various Federal agencies, states, and their political subdivisions.
Provides uniform policies with respect to recreation, fish and wildlife benefits,
and costs of Federal multi-purpose water resource projects. The Act requires
the Secretary of the Interior to report on the extent to which proposed
recreation and fish and wildlife development conforms to and is in accord with
the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
Provides financial assistance to the states in order to increase state
participation in coordinated planning of water and related land resources. The
Act requires full coordination between comprehensive water resources
planning and the SCORP for approval by the Water Resources Council.
Establishes a program for the preservation of historic properties. The Act
provides that no grant may be made under its provisions unless the application
is in accordance with the statewide historic preservation plan which has been
approved by the Secretary of the Interior after considering its relationship to
the State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
Implements the policy of preserving selected rivers or sections thereof in their
free-flowing condition. The Act requires the Secretary of the Interior to
encourage states to consider the needs and opportunities for establishing state
and local wild, scenic and recreational river areas when developing their State
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
Institutes a national system of recreation and scenic trails. It prescribes the
methods and standards by which components may be added to the system.
The Act directs the Secretary of the Interior to encourage states to consider
need and opportunities for establishing park, forest and other recreation trails
on lands owned or administered by states and recreation trails on lands in or
near urban areas in their State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans.
Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to furnish financial assistance in
carrying out plans for works of improvement for land conservation and
utilization. It requires that such public works which provide for water-based
fish and wildlife or recreational development shall be consistent with State
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans.
Requires that the SCORP contains a wetlands priority component consistent
with Section 303 of the Act, including consideration of wetlands protection
needs and problems consistent with the National Wetlands Priority
Conservation Plan and a listing of wetland types, if any, which should receive
priority for acquisition. Evidence of coordination and consultation with the
state agency primarily responsible for wetlands planning is also required.
(Source: L&WCF Grants Manual, Chapter 630.1, Attachment A.)
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APPENDIX E. SUMMARY OF PUBLIC WORKSHOPS
AND COMMENTS
A series of public workshops were held throughout the State in October and November of 2007
to include the Pee Dee, Lower Savannah, Lowcountry, Upstate and Midlands regions.
Workshops were held in rural and urban locations with afternoon and evening meeting times to
encourage greater participation and access among diverse populations. Participants received an
orientation to the SCORP purpose and planning process, an overview of State recreational
preference survey results, and a summary of recreation trends. Participants were invited to share
their priority issues and concerns relative to outdoor recreation in the State and then to rank these
identified issues in order of priority. Residents and stakeholders who were unable to attend one
of these five regional workshops were encouraged to submit their concerns and issues
electronically via e-mail or regular mail. The priority issues identified and ranked at each
regional workshop are listed, along with comments that were received by SCPRT through e-mail
and mail.
A draft of the 2008 SCORP was posted for public review on the SCPRT website from February
26, 2008 until March 26, 2008. A summary of the issues provided during the comment period
are provided in this Appendix.
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PEE DEE REGIONAL WORKSHOP
OCTOBER 29, 2007 7:00 PM
The workshop was held in the Library of the Town of Lamar in Darlington County.
Prioritized Issues
Increased funding for local recreation projects that serve rural communities. Incentives for
leveraging resources with State and local funds accompanied by funding criteria that help
level the playing field for rural communities (29 points).
Development of smaller, community-based facilities, especially for rural communities, to
provide easier access. Regional “super-centers” are nice, but not as accessible to rural
residents who would like local playgrounds and ball fields (17 points).
Development of more horse trails and facilities statewide to include camping facilities that
accommodate campers/rigs and have water, bathhouse access (12 points).
Strengthen education and awareness effort for local recreational leagues to enhance
sustainability and continuity. Rural community programs are heavily volunteer-based and
are frequently challenged with building programs and reliable access to facilities on a yearto-year basis (7 points).
Greater respect for recreation and awareness of the benefits of community-based recreation
among residents, local officials, and legislators (6 points).
Accessibility for special needs populations – i.e., aging, disabilities – to accommodate the
increased need for walkers, wheelchairs and other mobility issues (4 points).
Maintain hunting access and do not reduce hunting areas (3 points).
Address comprehensive recreational needs of smaller communities through planning,
coordination and funding (0 points).
Increase availability of bicycle trails and linkage to rural communities (0 points).
LOWCOUNTRY REGIONAL WORKSHOP
OCTOBER 30, 2007 3:00 PM
The workshop was held at Wannamaker County Park in North Charleston in Charleston County.
Need to balance recreational activity popularity with environmental impacts and use conflicts
that arise over concerns such as safety and noise (8 points).
Do not cut funding for recreation programs (5 points).
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Need dog parks to accommodate trails, shows, agility courses, and other dog/owner activities
(3 points).
Greater connectivity among trails. New trails should be developed with connectivity in mind
and incentives should be tied in part to trail connectivity (3 points).
Encourage outdoor recreation to reduce obesity (3 points).
Plan for aging population and changing user recreational needs to include access and
surfacing for trails (3 points).
Need for coordinated local recreation planning at the city and county levels (2 points).
Explore privatization of some recreational activities and facilities such as motorized
recreation (2 points).
Acquisition of new lands for future recreational use with a focus on former timber and paper
company lands and rail lines (1 point).
Encourage green development practices by private developers through financial and
regulatory incentives (0 points).
Greater access to aquatic facilities. Existing facilities are often overcrowded or are
inaccessible at popular times due to swimming leagues (0 points).
Trail heads should be upgraded to include safe parking facilities, call boxes, and markers and
signage (0 points).
Need additional public boat landings (0 points).
Need more canoe/kayak access and trails (0 points).
Encourage the protection of unique natural features, particularly through the use of
conservation districts (0 points).
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LOWER SAVANNAH REGIONAL WORKSHOP
NOVEMBER 5, 2007 7:00 PM
The workshop was held at Barnwell State Park near the Town of Blackville in Barnwell County.
Greater minority awareness of recreational opportunities, especially State facilities and parks.
Outreach efforts, including K-12 involvement, may help to address underutilization by
minority populations (6 points).
The Broad River should be preserved for flat water uses such as rowing and other smaller
and non-motorized boats. The section from Parr Reservoir to the Columbia Canal is
particularly suited for this type of activity (5 points).
Swimming instruction for youth and adults to reduce apprehension about water activities and
increase safety (2 points).
More attention to accessibility to recreational resources, particularly with growing number of
aging residents and individuals with disabilities (1 point).
Need development of rowing facilities statewide to take advantage of the year-round
favorable climate and the potential to attract tourists and teams to State events and training
facilities. There is untapped potential for growth in youth participation. Adequate rowing
facilities would include a boat house, low dock, flat water, and restricted motorized boating.
(1 point).
Boating safety is a growing need with increased crowding on water resources and a lack of
training among users (0 points).
Availability of walking and biking trails and connectivity between trails and to housing,
schools, shopping and employment areas (0 points).
The State should build upon its diverse resource base to enhance existing facilities and
expand to new areas (0 points).
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UPSTATE REGIONAL WORKSHOP
NOVEMBER 6, 2007 3:00 PM
The workshop was held at the Conference Center of the Appalachian Regional Council of
Governments in the City of Greenville in Greenville County.
Need more equine trails and more mileage on existing trails, with enhanced trailhead
development in the form of parking and signage. Camping facilities also need upgrades to
include more room, bath house, and water. A new statewide trails guide in print or electronic
format would be helpful to in-state residents and visitors. Greater organization of trail crews
could leverage area saddle clubs with State supervision to maintain and improve trails (26
points).
Participants also noted that T. Ed Garrison facility is underused by saddle clubs
Lee State Park has a nice trail but too short – would be a great site if trail could be
lengthened
Georgia has several good models for equine recreation facilities
Potential partnership with Parsons Mountain and Hamilton Branch
Twin Lakes should allow horses in off-season as Croft does
McCalla should reopen for equestrian use
Concern over funding levels. Maintaining current funding levels is actually a decrease given
increased demand by more users and increased maintenance, construction and operational
costs (14 points).
Connectivity of trails and bikeways needs to be multi-county in scope and tied in with
greenways planning, as well as transportation and economic development planning.
Incentives should also be available to encourage this approach (11 points).
Need water at the Brickhouse in the Sumter National Forest. Lack of water severely limits
use by equestrians and hikers. There is also a need to delineate equestrian and hunter uses of
the Forest during hunting season (11 points).
Public/private partnership should be explored and encouraged for new recreational facilities
to include matching resources for grants and sponsorships by companies with recreational
products and consumers. Such partnerships may be appropriate for equestrian facilities and
other specialized activities with a distinct user base (8 points).
Need to expand and ensure recreational opportunities for special needs populations to include
playground and other facilities to meet the needs of disabled persons of all ages (6 points).
Need more pocket parks to reduce load on major facilities and provide recreational access
closer to home and access to those with lower incomes and limited transportation options (5
points).
Expand eco-tourism efforts to include K-12 linkages in the form of outdoor education,
curriculum design and career awareness (5 points).
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Need a single-point-of-contact such as a State Trails Coordinator to ensure trail design and
construction is carried out in compliance with State and Federal standards and to coordinate
connectivity (4 points).
Explore additional recreational access to Heritage Trust Lands (4 points).
Need a comprehensive list of resources statewide by region and type of use for use by State
residents and visitors. Greenville County has developed a successful countywide guide
available on-line (1 point).
Trail development and planning should be coordinated with land use patterns in mind,
including new residential development (1 point).
Greater awareness among local governments of the requirements for and challenges of using
volunteers in recreation (0 points).
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MIDLANDS REGIONAL WORKSHOP
NOVEMBER 15, 2007 7:00 PM
The workshop was held at the Central Midlands Council of Governments in the City of Columbia
in Richland County.
More land set-aside for green space to address the future need to accommodate population
increases. Acquisition and advance planning needs to start now. Local governments should
play an expanded role in this effort (15 points).
Need longer horse trails and increased connectivity between trails, as well as improved
equestrian access for persons with disabilities. Also need upgraded and expanded camping
facilities to allow for larger rigs (11 points).
Need upgrades at put-in/take-out points for paddlers to include trash collection. Also need
additional access points throughout the State. Explore the use of the motorized watercraft tax
proceeds for use in non-motorized watercraft access needs (7 points).
Develop regional facilities and sites for greater impact and employ regional planning to
accommodate diversity of recreational uses and access within a region. Encourage
interagency coordination to achieve this (6 points).
More protected access to land and water resources from the mountains to the beachfront (6
points).
Need for more community-based recreational facilities to include ball fields, etc. (5 points).
Need more funding for smaller, rural communities to support construction and maintenance
of basic recreational facilities. These communities need access to additional funding sources
(3 points).
Greater awareness and involvement by the public in shoreline protection and planning for
Federally-regulated water bodies such as Lake Murray. Efforts should be made to dedicate
more of the waterfront lands to public recreational use (3 points).
Continued planning for the young sector of the population with the goals of increasing
recreational activity, addressing generational conflicts, and providing balanced recreational
opportunities (2 points).
Greater education and awareness among recreational user groups to avoid undue conflict and
increase safety – such as equestrians and hunters (2 points).
Encourage connectivity of public lands and green space (2 points).
Increase State and county emphasis on rail to trail conversion and acquisition. Encourage
partnerships and address barriers (2 points).
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Provide more secluded campsites for all users and balance primitive sites with sites that have
more amenities (1 point).
Greater State involvement in battlefield preservation (0 points).
Facilities to accommodate “new” and emerging sports in the area such as lacrosse, rowing,
etc. (0 points).
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SUMMARY OF COMMENTS SUBMITTED VIA MAIL AND E-MAIL
OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER 2007
The following issues and needs were submitted via mail and e-mail to SCPRT during the public
comment period. These are listed in the order received with no prioritization.
Encourage collaboration with public schools on outdoor/environmental education teaching
and learning at park and school sites. Work with K-12 educators to create site activities and
lesson plans that make connections to natural and social systems and integrate the core
subjects of math, science, social studies, and English/Language Arts. Provide professional
development for teachers on how to teach in the outdoors along with class
management techniques in outdoor settings.
State assistance for local and state parks should be recurring. Maintenance is a growing issue
at many state parks where facilities are deteriorating. The State Legislature must commit at a
higher level of support for maintenance and equipment.
An aggressive and comprehensive conservation plan that includes a timeline with acreage
goals is needed to preserve additional natural resources.
South Carolina needs a comprehensive network of paths and routes for walking and cycling.
Planners should require pathways in the design of new developments and find ways to
retrofit them in existing cities.
Recreational and competitive disc golf facilities can attract players from across the State,
providing an economic benefit to local businesses. One possible site is the Pickett-Thomas
Site/Goodale State Park in Camden.
Equestrians in South Carolina desire more in-state facilities and trails. Many equestrians
travel out-of-state to access facilities in neighboring Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.
Include equestrian trails in the statewide trail system and include equestrian access for state
parks. Design trails to link parks and complete the SC/NC trail connecting Kings Mountain
State Park and Crowder’s Mountain Park. Add equestrian trails to the proposed Thread Trail.
Also consider Andrew Jackson State Park for equestrian trails.
Support a comprehensive statewide network of public trails for equestrian, hiking, biking and
other non-motorized uses. A standard of one mile of trail per 500 persons was suggested.
Park land initiative should be launched to acquire park land throughout the State and provide
local funding to support a minimum acreage goal based on projected growth in each county.
Park land should be defined as land for public use and should not include private clubs,
homeowner association lands, SCDNR lands or wilderness areas which are not open for nonmotorized uses. Only protected open space should be counted in inventories.
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Additional river and water trails are needed, along with more access points for canoeing and
kayaking. These resources should be publicized.
Identify Revolutionary War Trails for protection and provide appropriate signage.
Fund sharing should be encouraged by the State with consideration to development grants for
small businesses to offer public recreation.
Encourage scheduled releases from certain dams such as Lake Murray to encourage
whitewater paddling and to promote tourism.
Provide more rock climbing access points.
Encourage greater public and user group participation in the recreation planning process
through a comprehensive notification process, additional meetings, news releases, and public
service ads.
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SUMMARY OF COMMENTS SUBMITTED VIA MAIL AND E-MAIL
2008 DRAFT SCORP REVIEW PERIOD FROM 2/26/08 TO 3/26/2008
The following issues and needs were submitted via mail and e-mail to SCPRT during the
thirty-day 2008 SCORP review period. These comments are summarized and listed in
the order received with no prioritization.
Create longer bicycle route opportunities in the State. Cyclists seek longer trail opportunities
offering multi-day rides with an origin and destination of interest. Such routes can attract
tourists looking for an outdoor adventure in South Carolina. Examples include the Katy Trail
(Missouri), the Continental Divide Trail, the New River Trail, and the combined Allegheny
Mountain Trail and C&O Trails that allow cyclists to ride from Pittsburgh to Washington,
DC. The Palmetto Trail offers such an opportunity, but cross-state use is restricted by the
interposition of several segments that do not permit mountain bike traffic.
Maximize the use of available abandoned rail lines for trails in South Carolina. Use of rail
lines may generate additional, environmentally-friendly commuting possibilities.
Explore the development of disc golf opportunities statewide that offer a low cost, low
impact activity that can be enjoyed by a diverse population in terms of age, gender and
income level. The activity requires little to no cost for participants and can meet a
recreational niche for youth in particular. Disc golf facilities and courses can attract leagues
and tournaments to the State. Goodale State Park in Kershaw County offers potential for an
accessible, centrally-located disc golf course development.
Encourage the development of greenways in communities of all sizes throughout the State as
a tool to protect open space and create recreational opportunities such as walking and biking
and access to rivers and other waterways.
Use greenways as an opportunity to provide non-vehicular connections between existing
recreational resources, residential areas, and commercial and cultural facilities, which helps
to reduce vehicular emission and improve air quality.
Promote the incorporation of greenways in neighborhood and community revitalization,
providing non-vehicular connections to commercial areas and public markets as well as
natural, historic and cultural resources.
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APPENDIX F. 2002 SCORP ACCOMPLISHMENTS
There have been notable accomplishments in addressing the eleven priority outdoor recreation
issues identified in the 2002 SCORP over the last five years. These activities are summarized
under each issue and show significant gains in the areas of land protection and acquisition,
expansion of trails, partnership development, and the implementation of existing plans.
Although listed only once, many of these accomplishments impacted and advanced multiple
priority issues.
Issue 1: Protect significant lands for natural and cultural resources allowing public
recreational use.
Since its inception in 2004, the SC Conservation Bank provided grant funding in excess of
$70.7 million for the conservation of more than 134,000 acres of land, including more than
124,000 acres of forests and wetlands.
SCPRT successfully applied for Conservation Bank funding to protect a recreational trail
corridor in the Mountain Bridge.
SCDNR worked with the Katawba Valley Land Trust (KVLT), SCPRT and the SC Forestry
Commission to acquire the 1,049-acre Landsford Forest Legacy Tract, which enabled the
provision of new recreational public lands around Landsford Canal State Park.
SCPRT, SCDNR, and other organizations actively participated on the Duke Energy
Catawba-Wateree hydro re-licensing stakeholder team to protect natural and historic
resources in the Great Falls area and areas along the Catawba River Corridor. The Great
Falls Nature Based Tourism Implementation Team worked toward the protection of lands
around Great Falls, implementing trail projects, historic building acquisition, and other
projects. SCDNR, KVLT, SCPRT, and others cooperated with Duke Energy and Crescent
Resources to acquire the 1,540-acre Heritage Tract near the Town of Great Falls; the 1,878acre McDowell Creek property; an additional 203 acres at Great Falls; and 161 acres of
conservation easements along Fishing Creek and Camp Creek. An agreement was also
reached that will establish a new 983-acre state park on the islands at Great Falls, 800 acres
of Lake Wateree recreation lands, and a number of river and lake access areas.
KVLT, SCDNR, SCPRT, the Catawba Regional Council of Governments, the SC
Department of Commerce, and many other organizations worked with the Great Falls
Nature Based Tourism Implementation Team to protect lands around Great Falls, the
implementation of trail projects, acquisition of historic building, and other related projects.
SCPRT redeveloped the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site to significantly
enhance the interpretation of cultural resources.
Blackstock Battlefield, a significant 107-acre Revolutionary War battlefield site, was
acquired by SCPRT. Additional facilities were added to the Musgrove Mill State Historic
Site to interpret the importance of the Revolutionary War site and were opened to the
public.
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SCDNR continued to work with partners through the Heritage Trust and Focus Area
programs to protect significant habitat along river corridors and throughout the State.
Since 2002, 2,839 additional acres have been purchased and dedicated as Heritage
Preserves by SCDNR. In addition, 47,509 acres of undedicated land were purchased
through the Heritage Land Trust Fund as part of the DNR habitat protection efforts.
SCDNR and SCPRT, through funding provided by the SC Conservation Bank and other
public and private partners, protected the 440-acre Stumphouse Mountain property,
including the Stumphouse Tunnel and Isaqueena Falls.
SCDNR designated two new State Scenic Rivers – the Great Pee Dee from Highway 378 to
Winyah Bay in 2002 and the Little Pee Dee in Dillon County in 2005. In addition, two
rivers are currently being evaluated for scenic river designation in 2008 – the Lower
Lynches River from the Lynches River County Park to the Great Pee Dee River and the
Catawba River from the Lake Wylie Dam to Highway 9.
In November 2003, the Congaree Swamp National Monument was designated as Congaree
National Park, becoming the first National Park in South Carolina. As part of the
designation, the Park was expanded by more than 4,500 acres to include lands at the
confluence of the Congaree and Wateree Rivers.
Congaree National Park and other NPS units in South Carolina continued to seek
operational and lands acquisition funding increases to provide expanded opportunities for
resource protection and visitor experiences.
The National Park Service continued protection and interpretation of cultural and historic
resources on their sites throughout the State.
Congaree National Park acquired more than 2,394 additional acres at the confluence of the
Congaree and Wateree Rivers in 2006.
In 2006, SC Governor Mark Sanford designated the portion of Cedar Creek that flows
through Congaree National Park as South Carolina’s only Outstanding National Resource
Waters.
Congaree National Park, in partnership with a number of other historic sites in Lower
Richland County and as a part of the Lower Richland Heritage Corridor, promoted heritagebased tourism through special events and marketing in Lower Richland County.
Since 2002, the Beaufort County Rural and Critical Land Preservation Program preserved
nearly 10,134 acres of land.
Since its inception in June 2006, the Charleston County Greenbelt Bank has provided $12
million in funding for the preservation of 19 projects totaling more than 4,113 acres.
The Richland County Conservation Commission awarded grants for 15 projects, including
the protection of 3 tracts totaling 109 acres located in the northwestern and northeastern
areas of the County. The Commission also began development of a trails plan that will
159
connect parks and green space, in partnership with local governments, neighborhood groups
and other non-profit organizations.
York County Forever preserved more than 6,208 acres of land since 2002.
In December of 2007, the Central Midlands COG Board approved a concept document
entitled Keeping it Green in the Midlands that outlines a vision for assembling a network of
open spaces within the region. The resulting document has been disseminated to elected
officials, planners, environmental groups and other interested parties within the region, to
encourage Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry and Richland Counties to integrate open space
preservation into their local planning efforts.
The ACE Basin Task Force continued to seek protection of approximately 350,000 acres of
wetlands and uplands in the lower drainage region of the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto
Rivers. To date, more than 150,000 acres have been protected through purchase, donation,
and conservation easements. SCPRT also worked with SCDNR and the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish an education center at Edisto Beach
State Park.
According to the Land Trust Alliance’s 2005 National Land Trust Census Report, more
than 176,460 acres of land were protected by private local and state land trusts in South
Carolina during 2005, resulting in a ranking of 17th nationwide in terms of protected
acreage.
Private groups such as local and regional land trusts, the SC Wildlife Federation, the
Coastal Conservation League, Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Quail Unlimited,
National Wild Turkey Federation, and the SC Waterfowl Association worked together and
with public agencies and landowners to conserve natural resources and improve habitat in
the State.
Issue 2: Manage and expand trail resources for walking, jogging/running, bicycling, offroad vehicle riding, skating, hiking, horse riding, and canoeing/kayaking.
Land Trails
SCPRT, along with the Palmetto Conservation Foundation (PCF), began plans to construct
a portion of the Palmetto Trail through the Croft State Natural Area.
SCPRT partnered with the Palmetto Conservation Foundation to build the Table Rock
Passage of the Palmetto Trail, a 12.5 mile section that connects Table Rock State Park,
Wesleyan Camp and the Jocassee Gorges.
SCPRT partnered with the Palmetto Conservation Foundation and the US Forest Service to
successfully complete a 3.2 mile section of the Palmetto Trail for mountain biking and
hiking that connects the Oconee Station Falls to Oconee State Park, passing through the
Sumter National Forest.
SCPRT upgraded trails in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, including the construction
of a viewing platform and a much needed foot bridge in Jones Gap.
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SCPRT successfully obtained RTP funds to build a trail connecting Kings Mountain State
Park and Kings Mountain National Military Park to Crowders Mountain State Park in North
Carolina. The project is currently underway.
SCPRT assumed management responsibilities for recreational resources at the 7,000-acre
H. Cooper Black Field Trial and Recreation Area in Chesterfield County, including 20
miles of equestrian trails, stalls and camping as well as recreational field trial services.
SCPRT continued to make more trails accessible to physically challenged trail users
through surface improvements of trails at Hunting Island State Park (Salt Marsh
Boardwalk), Edisto Beach State Park (Spanish Mount and Maritime Forest Trails) and at
Landsford Canal State Park (trail and viewing platform for Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies).
SCPRT constructed a new accessible boardwalk at Lee State Natural Area that ties in with
the environmental education center and significantly enhances Discover Carolina school
programming efforts provided at the Park.
In 2007, the Palmetto Conservation Foundation developed and hosted a series of trail
construction and management workshops to provide training for trail enthusiasts in South
Carolina.
SCPRT and other groups continued heritage tourism efforts to preserve and promote the
State’s cultural and historical treasures, including the development of the South Carolina
Heritage Corridor, the Cradle of Democracy, Carolinas Backcountry (Revolutionary War),
the Tobacco Trail, and the Cotton Trail.
The preservation of Revolutionary War battlefields continued to be a high priority for the
Palmetto Conservation Foundation. PCF transferred more than 107 acres at the site of the
Battle of Blackstocks and 39 acres at Musgrove Mill to SCPRT in 2005. In 2007, PCF
conveyed 33 acres adjacent to the Star Fort in Ninety Six to the National Park Service. PCF
also acquired significant acreage at the core of the Camden Battlefield – 316 acres in 2002
and an additional 161 acres in 2007, which includes more than 3 miles of public hiking
trails.
The Palmetto Conservation Foundation partnered with Federal and State agencies, local
governments, private foundations, corporations and private landowners to extend the
Palmetto Trail to 275 miles by December 2007. In addition to sections already noted in this
Appendix, the following sections were added:
6.6 mile Poinsett Reservoir Passage connecting to the Blue Wall Passage;
5 mile Hub City Connector, including access to the SC School for the Deaf and
Blind, Liberty Trail, Mary Black Rail Trail, and the Chinquapin Greenway;
2 mile Blackstock Passage;
24 mile Enoree passage connecting to the 14 mile Sumter passage to create a 36
mile trail through the Sumter National Forest;
7.3 mile Wateree Passage, connecting to the High Hills of Santee Passage at
Poinsett State Park and completing a 162 mile stretch of the Palmetto Trail from the
Wateree River to the Intracoastal Waterway; and
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7.2 mile Awendaw Passage, connecting Swamp Fox Passage with the Intracoastal
Waterway and the eastern terminus of the Palmetto Trail.
Preliminary discussions began on the development of the Savannah River Valley Trail,
which included the participation of the Palmetto Conservation Foundation.
Through hydro re-licensing processes and project reviews, SCDNR, SCPRT, and other
stakeholders continued to encourage utility companies to conserve open spaces on lakes and
rivers associated with hydropower projects.
Congaree National Park continued to maintain its 2.4 mile, ADA-accessible boardwalk loop
for Park visitors.
Congaree National Park continued to expand its foot trail system by maintaining existing
trails and adding length to trails.
Numerous local and regional recreation organizations such as the City of Rock Hill, the
Greenville County Recreation Commission, the Irmo-Chapin Recreation Commission
(Saluda Shoals Park) and the River Alliance constructed and expanded trails and trail
systems, while other local jurisdictions such as Richland County began development of
area-wide trail plans.
The Palmetto Conservation Foundation worked with agencies, local governments, private
foundations, corporations and private landowners to advocate for better walking, skating
and bicycling infrastructure statewide, both as part of the extension and completion of the
Palmetto Trail and through other unrelated projects such as greenway and trail plans.
Water Trails
The Catawba River Implementation Committee worked to pursue additional River access
points. Projects completed include the paddle-craft landing at River Park in Rock Hill and
improvements to the Fort Mill Landing on the Catawba River. Catawba-Wateree relicensing participants reached agreements that will add new paddling access points at the
Catawba Reservation and Landsford Canal State Park, as well as new whitewater
opportunities at Great Falls.
Friends of the Edisto, in partnership with the Palmetto Conservation Foundation,
established the North Fork Blueway on the North Fork Edisto River.
The Berkeley Conservation District and other partners developed Berkeley County
Blueways, a system of 23 water trails totaling more than 175 miles. The project includes
the development of maps, a website, establishment of new access points, and improvements
to existing access points.
SCDNR continued development of a canoe trail at Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve with
access sites established at 12th Street and Old State Road and another access planned for the
Highway 321 crossing.
SCDNR and the Lynches Scenic River Advisory Council received an RTP grant to develop
a river trail guide from Lee State Park to Lynches River County Park.
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SCDNR designated two new South Carolina Scenic Rivers – the Great Pee Dee from
Highway 378 to Winyah Bay in 2002 and the Little Pee Dee in Dillon County in 2005. In
addition, two rivers are currently being evaluated for scenic river designation in 2008 – the
Lower Lynches River from the Lynches River County Park to the Great Pee Dee River and
the Catawba River from the Lake Wylie Dam to Highway 9.
American Rivers, Congaree National Park, SCDNR, the River Alliance, Friends of the
Congaree, and other partners began development of the Congaree River Blue Trail from
Gervais Street in Columbia to US Highway 601 and are seeking to develop an information
map and guide. The trail has been nominated for designation as a National Recreation
Trail.
The National Park Service developed a project proposal for improvements to the parking
and access to the Cedar Creek Wilderness Canoe Trail at Congaree National Park.
Congaree National Park quadrupled its free, guided canoe trail offerings for the visiting
public and increased the availability of the trips to twice a week.
All Trails
SCPRT continued to expand its trails education effort statewide through inventory and
promotion of public trails on its web site at www.SCTRAILS.net.
SCPRT continued management of the Recreational Trails Program (provided through the
Federal Highways Administration), with 422 letters of intent received for projects totaling
$38.4 million between 2003 and 2007. Of these, 48 projects were funded at a total of $3.9
million.
Congaree National Park began development of training on the use of traditional tools for
trail maintenance in federally-designated wilderness areas, with a goal of meeting the
wilderness management objective of maintaining trails without the use of motorized tools.
SCPRT, USDA Forest Service, SC Forestry Commission, and the US Army Corps of
Engineers cooperated on neighboring properties to share facilities and trail resources,
resulting in longer trails with improved user services. Many non-profit groups have
partnered with public agencies to expand and maintain trails in the State. The SCPRT State
Trails Coordinator worked closely with other agencies and volunteer groups to provide
additional trail opportunities in the State.
Issue 3: Maintain and improve existing parks and recreational facilities.
SCPRT has maintained and in some instances improved 139 trails in its state park system,
totaling more than 350 miles in length. Of these, trails in 6 state parks share resources and
extend recreational opportunities beyond state park boundaries by connecting with the
Palmetto Trail at Poinsett, Oconee, Oconee Station, Blackstock Battlefield and Table Rock
State Parks; with the Foothills Trail at Oconee, Table Rock and Caesars Head State Parks;
and with Stevens Creek Trail at Hamilton Branch. Other connector trails are being planned
or are under development.
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SCPRT continued to make more trails accessible to physically-challenged trail users
through surface improvements of trails at Hunting Island State Park (Salt Marsh
Boardwalk), Edisto Beach State Park (Spanish Mount and Maritime Forest Trails) and at
Landsford Canal State Park (trail and viewing platform for Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies).
SCPRT continued to utilize volunteers and “Friends” groups at a number of state parks.
The volunteers provided trail monitoring and maintenance at many parks, hosted tours at
historic sites, raised funds for special projects, and served as campground hosts. Scout
groups and individuals also completed a number of special projects, litter pick-ups, and
other small maintenance projects throughout the Park Service.
Congaree National Park continued to utilize volunteers and volunteer groups for trail
maintenance and construction; to maintain trail facilities to established standards; and to
update trail ramps to provide for easier wheelchair access.
The National Park Service and Congaree National Park developed policies for the use of
Segway personal transporters for access to the boardwalk by physically-challenged trail
users.
The US Army Corps of Engineers made significant improvements to a number of its
facilities, including:
the construction of picnic shelters, a playground and sidewalks at the Lake Murray
Dam Recreation Area;
construction of picnic shelters, a gatehouse, restrooms and sidewalks at the Clarks
Hill Park Recreation Area;
addition of restrooms, new courtesy docks and lighting at the Scotts Ferry and
Dordon Creek Ramps;
installation of lighting at the Modoc and Calhoun Falls Ramps;
campsites renovated or constructed and lighting installed at the Modoc, Hawe Creek
and Mount Carmel Campgrounds;
restrooms installed at Leroy’s Ferry Campground; and
a playground installed at the Modoc Campground.
The Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge maintained and improved existing
recreational facilities, including renovation of the 40-acre lake and road and trail
improvements.
Local and regional recreation organizations statewide continued to provide maintenance for
existing recreation facilities and made improvements to many existing recreation facilities.
Issue 4: Increase funding for a variety of parks and recreational facilities.
The SC Conservation Bank Act was adopted in 2002, establishing a conservation land bank
program using proceeds from the State portion of deed recording fees. The program was
funded in 2004 and allowed purchase of land/easements to conserve priority areas. The
Conservation Bank provided more than $70.7 million in grant funding for the conservation
of more than 134,000 acres of land between 2004 and 2007.
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The South Carolina State Park Service applied for and was successfully awarded funding
from the RTP and LWCF grant programs for trails and outdoor recreational facility
development at Edisto Beach State Park, Hunting Island State Park, Landsford Canal, Table
Rock State Park, Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Musgrove Mill State Historic Site,
Kings Mountain State Park and Woods Bay State Natural Area. This funding will
significantly enhance outdoor public recreational opportunities at these sites which are of
regional importance.
SCPRT and other organizations continued to pursue stable, multi-year funding for the Land
& Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).
SCPRT continued to administer the Federal LWCF and RTP programs as well as the statefunded Recreation Land Trust (RELT) and Parks and Recreation Development (PARD)
Fund. The Open Project Selection Process (OPSP) for LWCF/ RELT established funding
priorities for:
Significant natural/cultural resources conservation, public beach access;
Trails and greenways, river access, public open space;
Athletic fields and courts, playgrounds, wildlife watching and other passive
opportunities;
Lake access, improvements that increase the usefulness of existing facilities, golf,
campgrounds; and
Support facilities, renovations.
Additional consideration was given to agencies or projects that demonstrated the following:
Acquisition only, for future recreation use;
Identified in current recreation/natural resources plans;
Significant interagency or public/private cooperation;
Located in areas of low incomes, high percentage of minorities, or high population
growth;
Improves accessibility for persons with disabilities or special needs;
Protects wetlands (with emphasis on those identified as protection targets in the
SCORP); and
Limited site alteration.
LWCF and RELT received 299 letters of intent for a total of $45.2 million between 2003
and 2007. Only 72 applicants received funding, which were matched with $7.6 million for
a total project impact of $15.3 million.
Many organizations encouraged the legislature to continue and increase the PARD funding
for local communities. In 2007, an additional non-recurring appropriation was funded by
the Legislature.
Congaree National Park and other NPS units in South Carolina continued to seek increased
operational and lands acquisition funding to expand opportunities for resource protection
and visitor experiences.
The Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge established a Refuge Friends group to
assist in maintaining and promoting recreational resources at the facility.
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Funding for recreation facilities and programs in some local jurisdictions was enhanced
through a wide range of methods such as partnerships, tax allocations, and one-time capital
funding.
SCPRT maintained an ongoing planning process for updating the State Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) and performing special supportive studies, such as the
Recreation Participation and Preference Study and other special focus surveys. This
planning process enables South Carolina to be eligible for grants and provides up-to-date
information needed at the local, State and Federal level to apply for other funding
assistance.
Issue 5: Acquire public open space for recreational use, including urban parks,
neighborhood parks, and greenways.
SCPRT worked with other agencies and organizations to acquire or lease public open space
for recreational use at Landsford, Great Falls, Lake Wateree, Blackstock Battlefield,
Caesars Head, and Paris Mountain.
In December 2007, the CMCOG Board approved an outline for assembling a network of
open spaces within the region called Keeping it Green in the Midlands. The document was
disseminated to elected officials, planners, environmental groups and other stakeholders in
the region to encourage open space preservation in the local planning efforts of Fairfield,
Lexington, Newberry and Richland Counties.
A number of local governments such as Charleston, Greenville, and Spartanburg Counties
and organizations such as the River Alliance in the Columbia area developed and began
implementation of local and regional greenway systems.
Since 2002, 2,839 additional acres have been purchased and dedicated as Heritage
Preserves by SCDNR. In addition, 47,509 acres of undedicated land were purchased
through the Heritage Land Trust Fund as part of the agency’s habitat protection efforts.
Local governments and organizations acquired additional land for outdoor recreation and
made improvements for recreational access. Examples include the Reedy River Falls Park
and the Lake Conestee Park in Greenville.
Issue 6: Provide more multi-use athletic complexes and active recreational facilities for
youth.
SCPRT continued administration of the Federal LWCF and RTP programs as well as the
State RELT and PARD Funds. Athletic fields and courts were established as a funding
priority for the LWCF and RELT programs.
Local and regional recreation organizations such as those in Greenville, Richland and York
Counties and the cities of Rock Hill and Greenville expanded and constructed multi-use
recreational facilities such as tennis centers, multi-use fields and recreation centers.
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Issue 7: Create partnerships between and among government agencies and the private
sector to build, maintain, and promote recreation resources, and to implement
existing plans.
SCPRT worked with the SC Forestry Commission (SCFC) and SCDNR to formalize an
agreement that turned over management of outdoor recreational components at the H.
Cooper Black Field Trial and Recreation Area to SCPRT, including significant and popular
equestrian facilities.
SCPRT, SCDNR and a number of other stakeholders have been active participants on the
SCE&G Saluda hydro re-licensing process to ensure that public open space is conserved
and available on Lake Murray and the Lower Saluda River for public use.
SCPRT, SCDNR, and many other agencies, local governments and organizations actively
participated on the Duke Energy Catawba-Wateree hydro re-licensing stakeholder teams to
protect natural, cultural, and recreational resources in the Great Falls area and areas along
the Catawba-Wateree River Corridor. The partnership successfully negotiated the terms of
the Catawba Hydroelectric Re-licensing Agreement.
SCPRT, the PCF, and other organizations were active participants in the Cradle of
Democracy project aimed at protecting and promoting Revolutionary War heritage in South
Carolina. Through this effort, SCPRT acquired the Blackstock Battlefield in Union County
and a new segment of the Palmetto Trail was added on the property.
SCPRT coordinated the State Recreation Resources Forum in 2005, with attendance that
included 35 individuals from 12 different agencies.
SCDOT, SCPRT, and local/regional governments and tourism groups continued to work
together to improve the scenic nature of designated scenic highways.
SCDNR, Charleston County and other partners began the process of creating a protected
lands buffer around Dungannon Heritage Preserve and the Caw Caw Interpretive Center.
SCDNR continued to manage the Dungannon Heritage Preserve.
The Katawba Valley Land Trust, Crescent Resources, SCDNR, SCPRT, and the SC
Forestry Commission partnered to protect 1,049 acres of significant lands along the
Catawba River near Landsford Canal.
In 2007, SCPRT, SCFC, SCDNR, and other partners planned and conducted a South
Carolina Trails Conference, which focused on both land and water trails.
Congaree National Park began development of a curriculum-based education program
focusing on park resource management.
Congaree National Park partnered with volunteer groups to provide trail maintenance and
construction.
Recognizing the need to promote health and wellness, private organizations such as the
Greenville Hospital System committed funding to local recreation organizations and
agencies to enhance active living through outdoor recreation.
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SCPRT, the USDA Forest Service, the SC Forestry Commission, and the US Army Corps
of Engineers cooperated on neighboring properties to share facilities and trail resources,
resulting in longer trails with improved user services.
The US Army Corps of Engineers continued to lease land to and cooperate with State and
local governments and private interests for public lake access and other recreational
opportunities on Lake Thurmond, Lake Russell, and Lake Hartwell.
The South Carolina National Heritage Corridor Board of Directors, regional boards, local
committees, and SCPRT continued to staff the South Carolina Heritage Partnership and
implement the South Carolina Heritage Corridor Plan.
Issue 8: Implement existing plans.
SCPRT, the PCF, and other groups worked toward the implementation of the 2002 SC State
Trails Plan.
The Catawba River Implementation Committee supported and carried out elements of the
Catawba River Corridor Plan through its participation with the Catawba-Wateree Relicensing process and through cooperative planning with Catawba Regional Council of
Governments, the Katawba Valley and Nation Ford Land Trusts, SCDNR, SCPRT and
associated local governments to promote and enhance recreational access along the River
corridor. The group also began efforts toward the designation of a section of the River as a
South Carolina Scenic River.
The Great Falls Nature-Based Tourism Implementation Committee continued its efforts to
implement its plan through involvement in the Catawba-Wateree re-licensing process,
downtown revitalization, historic building acquisition, trail planning, bird counts, and
heritage celebrations.
SCPRT actively and cooperatively worked with the PCF to expand land protection
opportunities and enhance recreation along new segments of the Palmetto Trail on SCPRT
properties at Table Rock, Oconee, Oconee Station and Blackstock Battlefield.
The Lower Saluda Scenic River Advisory Council, SCDNR, SCPRT and other groups
implemented the goals and recommendations of the Saluda River Corridor Plan and
Update. Actions included receipt of a grant for a water quality assessment and education
project; development of river-user safety information and a warning system; continuous
advocacy for planning and permitting decisions that will protect water quality and riparian
habitat; sharing of conservation information with landowners; support for Saluda Shoals
Park expansions and funding for the extension of the greenway trail along the River; and
participation in the re-licensing process for the Saluda Hydro Project to advance interests in
recreational access facilities, safety, and in-stream flows. SCE&G, Trout Unlimited,
SCDNR, and SCDHEC also worked to improve the water quality of the River.
SCPRT continued to implement components of the State Park Vision for the 21st Century,
focusing on stewardship and service in the State Park Service.
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SCPRT continued to implement elements of the Lynches River Management Plan through
educational efforts and the provision of river access at Lee State Natural Area in Lee
County.
SCPRT continued to work closely with the National Park Service and the PCF to
implement common objectives and enhance cooperative natural heritage interpretation and
conservation efforts.
The East Coast Greenway Association, local governments, SCPRT, and other groups
worked toward the development of the East Coast Greenway Trail that weaves through the
coastal counties of South Carolina, with segments of the Trail added at Huntington Beach
State Park and in several urban areas of Horry, Georgetown, Charleston, and Beaufort
Counties.
SCPRT continued to implement its Nature-Based Tourism Plan to grow tourism that
utilizes the State’s natural and cultural resources in a sustainable manner.
SCPRT continued to work with local interests to implement the South Carolina Heritage
Corridor Plan.
Friends of the Edisto, SCDNR and other partners continue to promote the goals of the
Edisto River Basin Project Report. Grants were obtained to develop watershed partnerships
for conservation and education programs aimed at landowners and local
government/business leaders, to conduct annual “Stewardship Day” river cleanups and
river/watershed festivals, and to organize projects to address water quality problems.
Implementation of the Reedy River Management Plan continued, focusing primarily on the
areas of education and access. Two paddlefests were held on the River.
Lynches Scenic River Advisory Council, SCDNR, SCPRT and other organizations
implemented the goals and recommendations of the Lynches Scenic River Management
Plan. Actions included: a grant award for a riparian habitat assessment and education
project to improve water quality; sharing of conservation information with landowners; the
provision of river access and educational opportunities at Lee State Natural Area in Lee
County; promotion of improvements for the Highway 15 Boat Ramp in Lee County; and
conducting community river festivals. An RTP grant was also obtained to begin
development of a river-trail guide.
The Ashley Scenic River Advisory Council, SCDNR and other organizations implemented
the goals and recommendations of the Ashley Scenic River Management Plan. Actions
included conducting community education programs about river resources and land
conservation for landowners and local government leaders, and advocating permitting and
local planning decisions that protect river resources.
The Black Scenic River Advisory Council, SCDNR and other organizations began
development of the Black Scenic River Management Plan. The Plan will advocate creation
of a new paddle-craft access at Highway 377 and improvements at Pea House Landing and
planning and permitting decisions that will protect water quality and riparian habitat.
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Local governments and outdoor recreation organizations implemented the objectives of a
variety of local recreation plans.
Issue 9: Increase opportunities for activities of high recreational demand.
SCPRT continued to play a significant role in increasing and maintaining opportunities for
outdoor recreational access at state parks through its diverse trails program, wildlife
watching opportunities, camping, golf, picnicking, historic site visitation, fishing and other
activities.
The SCPRT grant process focused on the following activities of high recreational demand:
Walking/running for pleasure or exercise
Playing ball/attending sporting events
Swimming/beach swimming
Driving for pleasure
Bicycling
Fishing
Wildlife/bird watching
Golf
Motorboating
Picnicking
Camping
Visiting historic sites
Gardening
Hiking
The Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge provided enhanced opportunities for
wildlife and bird watching, including improvements to access, a new photography blind and
construction of a new observation tower.
Local governments and recreation organizations provided new opportunities for a wide
range of high demand outdoor recreational activities such as bird watching,
walking/running and picnicking.
Issue 10: Increase ongoing education efforts to provide information on recreation
opportunities, avoid user conflicts, and protect resources.
SCPRT significantly expanded delivery of public outdoor recreation information and
education through its improved and updated websites. The web resources provide linkages
to other outdoor recreation sites and promote stewardship, nature based tourism, trails, and
other programs and activities.
SCPRT constructed new visitor centers at Charles Towne Landing, Musgrove Mill, and
Edisto Beach State Park and re-developed the former Paris Mountain bath house into a new
visitor center. All of these facilities provide visitor interpretation and education of park
resources as well as trail access and enhanced opportunities for the Discover Carolina
program and other educational outreach programs.
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Congaree National Park expanded and updated its web site to provide additional
information about recreational opportunities and developed a range of educational and
promotional materials for specialized users such as bird watchers, hikers, and paddlers.
Congaree National Park continued to improve its visitor center and has now fully staffed
the Old Growth Bottomland Forest Research and Education Center.
Congaree National Park significantly expanded its educational outreach efforts – both
internally and externally – to include K-12, higher education, and informal public science
programs; partnerships with the research community to utilize the new Learning Center;
and provision of a dedicated Education Coordinator.
The Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge installed additional interpretive kiosks and
panels and new exhibits that detail recreational opportunities at the Refuge.
Local governments and organizations such as the Greenville County Recreation
Commission enhanced or created web sites that promote and provide information about
outdoor recreation opportunities, facilities and programs.
Issue 11: Increase public beach access.
SCPRT continued to maintain important public beach access opportunities at Hunting
Island, Edisto Beach, Huntington Beach and Myrtle Beach State Parks. Dune crossovers
were added at several locations, sand was added to severely eroding beaches, and facilities
were moved as needed to “retreat” from beach areas.
The SCDHEC Office of Coastal Resource Management continued to encourage public
beach access and implementation of the policies of the Coastal Zone Management Act and
the Beachfront Management Act.
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