S.C. Nature Conservancy buys & protects one of largest waterfront properties on coast

Beaufort, South Carolina – February 16, 2024

The S.C. Nature Conservancy announced that it has acquired one of the largest undeveloped waterfront properties in coastal South Carolina. The purchase will ensure permanent protection for the 4,409-acre Gregorie Neck property with a conservation easement, the organization said in a news release.

Property Details

Flanked by deep water access on the Coosawhatchie and Tulifiny Rivers and bisected by Interstate 95, the property was listed for sale in 2023. The S.C. Nature Conservancy paid $35 million for the 4,409 acre piece of land. The Nature Conservancy in South Carolina secured an agreement with the Beaufort County Open Land Trust to place the property under a conservation easement.

The easement will permanently limit development of the property to no more than six homesteads, each with a limited number of structures. Following the placement of the easement, The Nature Conservancy will divest of the property, including existing waterfront homes and outbuildings.

Environmental Impact

“Unlike so many miles of waterfront in our state, the future of Gregorie Neck now is certain,” said Dale Threatt-Taylor, executive director of The Nature Conservancy in South Carolina. “The very limited development allowed by this approach will leave thousands of acres of marsh, woods and fields intact for wildlife and water quality.”

Military Involvement

One of the players involved in the acquisition was the Department of Defense, which is particularly interested in ensuring limited development for the good of national security. The Defense Department awarded a $6 million grant to the project to prevent incompatible development and protect landscapes in the vicinity of the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

Conservation Efforts

The permanent restrictions outlined in the terms of the Gregorie Neck conservation easement will decrease the property’s value, but this loss is largely offset by a diversity of funding partners through competitive grants. The property will be under the stewardship of The Nature Conservancy, Open Land Trust, and the Marine Corps Air Station-Beaufort through the Department of the Navy to ensure its permanent protection.

Historical Significance

Named for Alexander Gregorie who acquired the property in 1798, Gregorie Neck has historical and ecological significance. The property has been managed for the last 30 years by the Jepson family to promote the conservation values of the land. Gregorie Neck’s ecosystems are home to upland forests with massive pines and hardwoods, impoundments providing critical habitat for wildlife, and open agricultural fields supporting livestock and songbirds.

Regional Impact

“This closing is an achievement made possible by a conservation-minded seller, creative real estate professionals, and committed funding partners,” said David Bishop, coastal and midlands conservation director for the S.C. Nature Conservancy. “We hope the protection of Gregorie Neck encourages other large landowners on the Port Royal Sound to work toward conservation outcomes.”

With the protection of Gregorie Neck, the region is poised to accelerate regional land protection efforts and preserve the natural resources and sense of place in the Port Royal Sound. The property’s permanent conservation will also contribute to maintaining water quality in the area and ensuring a healthy habitat for wildlife.

Stay tuned for more updates on this significant conservation effort in Beaufort, South Carolina as the final easement reviews and closings take place.