Lowcountry Land Trust seeks $1.45M from Dorchester County for property purchase

A significant funding initiative took center stage at the Dorchester County Conservation & Greenbelt Advisory Commission meeting, as the Lowcountry Land Trust outlined plans to purchase a key property for conservation. The property, currently listed for $2,675,000, is under contract for $2,250,000, with a deadline for due diligence and financing set for July 3.

The urgency of the funding request was emphasized, as the Trust seeks to secure financial backing from various sources, including a $800,000 request from the conservation bank, which has recently seen a surge in funding requests. The Trust is also looking to Dorchester County for $1,450,000 towards the purchase price, alongside an additional $30,000 for transaction costs.

Support from organizations like Audubon, South Carolina, and Norfolk Southern has been secured for transaction costs, and the Trust is encouraged to pursue funding from SustainSC's new Land and Water Action Platform. The property in question is highlighted as a high priority for land protection, making the funding request critical for advancing conservation efforts in the region.

The Trust's representatives expressed optimism about securing the necessary funds, noting the importance of timely decisions from prospective funders in May and June. The anticipated closing date for the transaction is set for September, marking a pivotal step in preserving vital land in Dorchester County.