From Indiatimes · TOI Science Desk · · 1m 50s
Land sale for conservation after 20 years of opposition
Developer agrees to sell 229-acre South Carolina land for permanent wildlife protection after 20 years of conservation opposition.
In brief
Developer agrees to sell 229-acre South Carolina land for permanent wildlife protection after 20 years of conservation opposition. Pulte Home Company will sell the White Tract to Open Space Institute for permanent conservation after 20 years of opposition. Originally reported by Indiatimes.
Land development plan
In 2006, a developer planned more than 200 homes on a 229-acre South Carolina tract bordering a wildlife refuge.
Opposition timeline
Conservation groups opposed the development for 20 years over wetlands, wildlife and water quality concerns.
Legal challenges
SCELP represented conservation groups in legal challenges against the development permits.
Conservation significance
The White Tract supports migratory birds, sea turtles and coastal ecosystems in South Carolina.
Settlement terms
Pulte Home Company agreed to sell the White Tract to Open Space Institute for permanent conservation.
Environmental enhancements
Pulte committed to environmental improvements at two communities in Charleston and Dorchester counties.
Transaction status
The sale has not yet been completed but is expected to finalize soon.
Supporting entities
Governor Henry McMaster and local authorities endorsed the conservation agreement.
Conservation benefits
Protecting the White Tract helps maintain wildlife corridors and reduces development pressure.
Long-term impact
The White Tract will become part of Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge for future generations.
Key stakeholders
Friends of Coastal South Carolina, Coastal Conservation League and Charleston Waterkeeper led the opposition.
Legal resolution
SCELP will dismiss pending legal challenges once conservation is complete.
Wildlife importance
The area supports more sea turtle nests than anywhere in South Carolina.
Water quality concerns
Conservationists warned about septic systems affecting groundwater and waterways.
Settlement outcome
The agreement ends a 20-year dispute between developer and conservation groups.
Future conservation
The White Tract will be permanently protected for wildlife and future generations.
What it means
Pulte Home Company will sell the White Tract to Open Space Institute for permanent conservation after 20 years of opposition.
