Lowcountry Land Trust acquires 94 acres on Johns Island to protect farmland and support community access

The acquisition of Grayson Oaks helps preserve the rural character of the area while providing opportunities for sustainable farming, education, and public green space.

lush greenery

According to the press release, less than 10% of Johns Island currently protected.

Photo by Natalie Olson via Lowcountry Land Trust

Lowcountry Land Trust recently acquired Grayson Oaks, a 94-acre property on Johns Island, as part of its ongoing efforts to protect natural and agricultural land in the region. The acquisition aims to preserve farmland, maintain the rural character of the area, and provide access to green spaces.

Located off Main and Humbert Roads, the property will serve as an active farm under a lease to local regenerative farmers. Lowcountry Land Trust also plans to create walking trails and host community events on the site. Other plans include field trips, farm stands, and partnerships to help educate the community about sustainable farming practices and land stewardship.

Lowcountry Land Trust_CHStoday

John Island’s population has doubled in the past decade.

Photo via Lowcountry Land Trust

Natalie Olson, Sea Islands Program Director at Lowcountry Land Trust emphasized the project’s role in balancing conservation with public access. “Protecting the Grayson Oaks property reflects our commitment to conserving working land and expanding access to natural spaces,” Olson said in a press release.

The acquisition was supported by funding from multiple sources, including $2.9 million from the Charleston County Greenbelt Program, $600,000 from the SC Conservation Bank, and a $500,000 property sale discount from the former landowner.

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