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229 Acres Saved From Development for Wildlife
11 Nov
Summary
- 229-acre White Tract near Cape Romain Refuge saved.
- Developer Pulte Home Company agrees to sell land.
- Open Space Institute to ensure permanent conservation.
A significant 229-acre tract of land in Awendaw, Charleston County, South Carolina, once slated for residential development, is now secured for permanent conservation. Known as the White Tract, this property borders the vital Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.
Years of opposition from conservation groups, including the South Carolina Environmental Law Project and the Coastal Conservation League, challenged plans for approximately 208 single-family homes. Concerns focused on potential impacts to wetlands, wildlife, and water quality from wastewater systems.
The breakthrough came on November 6, 2026, when developer Pulte Home Company agreed to sell the White Tract to the Open Space Institute. This landmark settlement aims to ensure the land's protection, preserving its ecological significance as a critical habitat for migratory birds and sea turtles.
The agreement marks a collaborative effort between conservation advocates, developers, and the Open Space Institute. While the transaction is pending completion, it represents a major victory for environmental preservation in coastal South Carolina.
