Preserving Kiawah ' s Habitats
The Kiawah Conservancy and Land Conservation
A constant in the 26 years of the Kiawah Conservancy ’ s existence has been a dedication to the protection of habitat that encourages a healthy coexistence of wildlife and humans . This vision has three aspects .
The actions that receive the most visibility are acquisitions of land and conservation easements . The Conservancy has now preserved 72 properties on or near Kiawah , comprising almost 2,400 acres . Over 86 acres have been preserved so far this year and we anticipate more will be added before the end of 2023 ! We are excited by the pace at which property acquisition has increased in recent years .
A second critical facet of preservation has been a commitment of community and development leaders to conserve natural habitats surrounding planned developments . Two of the most visible examples of that shared vision are the 2017 entranceway vote by the community that sets the tone for healthy habitat throughout the Island and the natural corridor between Kiawah Island Parkway and its adjacent bike path . Both are examples of how humans and wildlife can share the opportunity to move through the Island .
Finally , we are blessed to enjoy an Island rich in marshes , ponds , and dunes that will remain as they are today into perpetuity . With an island of over 8,000 acres , almost 70 percent comprise these habitat types . Extensive wildlife research on Kiawah has validated the importance of the nesting , resting , and feeding opportunities presented to a variety of species , including deer , bobcats , alligators , turtles , and over 300 species of birds .
54