Trees & Wildlife
Trees in Bluffton
Trees are an important part of Bluffton ' s beauty. Many areas, like Buckwalter, were once tree farms where paper companies planted rows of pine trees to harvest later.
Bluffton has been a " Tree City USA " community since 2012. This means we care about our trees! The Town never removes or cuts trees without careful thought and approval from trained tree experts. We work to: Protect existing trees Keep citizens safe Strategically plant native species
TREE TIP
Native vs. Invasive Trees
Plant These: Live oak Bald cypress Dogwood Red maple
DID YOU KNOW?
Clemson ' s Bradford Pear Bounty Program lets you trade invasive trees for native ones. Learn more: clemson. edu / extension / bradford-pear.
Alligators are most active from April through October and when temperatures are between 82 and 92 degrees.
Avoid These: Bradford pear Mimosa Chinaberry Bamboo
Wildlife Safety
The Lowcountry is home to many wild animals including alligators. Alligator attacks have been increasing in our area. Be mindful, keep your distance and stay safe.
Stay Safe Around Wildlife
Never feed wildlife Keep pets away from lagoons Stay at least 10 feet from water edges Be extra careful at dawn and dusk
Important: You need a Town permit to remove most trees that are 4 inches or wider.
Remember: 92 % of Bluffton residents live in planned communities where POAs( Property Owners Associations) manage trees and wildlife in common areas. Always check with them first for issues on shared property.
Hands Off Wildlife!
Never touch injured or orphaned animals. Call the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources( S. C. DNR) at 803-734-3886( weekdays) or 803-955-4000( after hours).
Who to Call
Tree questions: Town Growth Management Department( 843-706-4500) Aggressive alligators: S. C. DNR( 1-800-922-5431) Common areas: Your neighborhood POA
WE’ RE HERE TO HELP( 843) 706-4500 townofbluffton. sc. gov 17