has already begun some invasive species removal, but a more complete species inventory will help determine priority species to target for management and restoration efforts."
Understanding what species use the land— and how— will also guide future management decisions. Wheeler views the site as an increasingly rare refuge in a rapidly developing region.“ Any green space left in Charleston County is of critical conservation importance,” she says. The data collected during the BioBlitz will assist with habitat monitoring, helping reveal how different species rely on the property as year-round residents, migratory stopovers, or seasonal visitors.“ What was found today will inform both the conservation and the restoration decisions going forward,” she adds.
Finally, the BioBlitz demonstrates the essential role of public engagement in conservation. Volunteers gained early, meaningful access to the site, building a sense of connection that strengthens long-term support for the Conservancy’ s mission. As Austin puts it, participating in the first look at a property“ really connects you with it and makes you want to see it succeed.”
Bundrick says that the land needs to lead the way:“ The BioBlitz gave us a lot of new ideas,” he says.“ Thats the power of collaboration— you bring in new people and you learn from their experience. As an institution we need to continue learning more about the biodiversity of our properties so we can become better stewards of our Sea Islands.”
58 • CONSERVANCY OF THE SEA ISLANDS