Lowcountry Land Trust announces “It Can’t Wait” campaign to accelerate land protection before opportunities are lost
March 12, 2026
Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to conserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, announces the public phase launch of the organization’s It Can’t Wait Campaign. In its 40th year, and having protected over 165,000 acres across coastal South Carolina, the $8 million effort will accelerate Lowcountry Land Trust’s ability to permanently protect land and water for public benefit and access. Without the final 10% investment needed to reach the campaign’s goal, critical, beloved places across the Lowcountry could be lost to development forever. The organization is requesting support from the broader community to achieve the ambitious fundraising goal by June 30, 2026.
The It Can’t Wait campaign is centered on fortifying Lowcountry Land Trust’s Opportunity Fund, which allows the organization to act quickly when high-priority properties become available. In today’s competitive real estate market, conservation opportunities can emerge and disappear abruptly. Achieving the $8 million goal will ensure the Land Trust has the resources ready when those critical moments arise. Gifts of all sizes, including donations made through donor-advised funds, IRA rollovers, stock transfers, and multi-year commitments, will leave a lasting impact on the fate of the Lowcountry.
“The pace of development across the Lowcountry is not slowing,” said Matt Williams, president and CEO of Lowcountry Land Trust. “This moment is pivotal for the conservation of our region. The momentum is real, the need is urgent, and the finish line is within reach. By June 30, let’s complete this campaign together and secure the future of the Lowcountry we all cherish. It can’t wait.”
Lowcountry Land Trust operates throughout South Carolina’s 17-county coastal plain, where nearly 2 million residents depend on healthy landscapes for drinking water supplies, flood-absorbing wetlands, food-producing farms, and the Lowcountry’s incredible scenic views. Benefitting from these efforts daily, everyone can and should play a role in protecting this landscape where we live, work, and play.
Early commitments from new and longtime supporters, foundations, and corporations to the It Can’t Wait campaign helped Lowcountry Land Trust reach 90% of its $8 million goal. Donors to the memorial funds of David Maybank Warder and Sam Carlton, both beloved local conservationists, also fueled this early effort. Lowcountry Land Trust thanks them for leading the way and inspiring others. Community members’ support will help close the final gap, strengthening the organizations’ ability to move swiftly and ensure that irreplaceable Lowcountry landscapes and waterways are protected and stewarded in perpetuity.
With the campaign nearing its goal, community support will ensure the Lowcountry’s most important landscapes will be protected. Every contribution helps ensure the Land Trust can move quickly to safeguard land and water that residents, wildlife, and future generations will depend on.
To support the It Can’t Wait campaign, visit lowcountrylandtrust.org/donate/donation-form. The finish line is in sight, and we cannot afford to wait.
Stay connected by following @LowcountryLandTrust on social media and signing up for their email newsletter to receive the latest updates on conservation efforts and ways to get involved.
ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LAND TRUST
Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 165,000 acres since 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful land trusts in the country. Its work includes the stewardship of privately owned land and iconic public places, such as the future Angel Oak Preserve—a 44-acre passive park and living museum in partnership with the City of Charleston. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.
