Kiawah Conservancy: A History
by Joan Avioli
When the Kuwaitis began development of
retiree who lived on Kiawah and devoted himself to
studying its wildlife. Dave had similar aspirations. New
scientific evidence was altering understanding of what
was needed to sustain healthy wildlife. They asked
the key question: did the Island need a separate entity
focused on preserving “The Living Environment” as noted
entomologist E.O. Wilson expressed it?
Their discussion expanded to include then-mayor
Ralph Magnotti, Eric Nielson, KICA’s first property owner
chairman, Leo Fishman who would guide the fledgling
organization through the legal shoals, Kurt Wassén, Mike
Witansky and the manager of the Kiawah Island Inn,
Prem Devadas who provided space for their meetings.
This informal planning committee envisioned working
closely with all other Island entities. By 1995, they had
commissioned a feasibility study. The study would extend
over two years during which visits were made to Spring
Island, South Carolina; Bald Head Island, North Carolina
and Sanibel Island, Florida. Tug Ballantyne from the
Hilton Head Southeastern Ecological Institute served as
consultant.
In modest understatement Leo Fishman said,
“I was able to help Dave Elliott and Kurt Wassén put
together this organiza ѥ