Migratory Bird Council Approves $2.8 Million NAWCA Grant for Critical Wetland Conservation in Coastal South Carolina

Photo Credit: Owen Best, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

The Migratory Bird Council awarded a $2.8 million grant through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) for the Carolina Wetlands and Watersheds II project, a comprehensive conservation initiative that will permanently protect 4,969 acres of critical wetland habitat across coastal South Carolina.

This project is the second phase of a collaborative effort to conserve unique and biodiverse wetlands throughout priority watersheds in the region. The initiative will focus on fee-title acquisition of one tract and enhancement activities on two additional properties designed to support migratory waterfowl, threatened and endangered species, and other wetland-dependent wildlife.

"For more than 35 years, NAWCA has been the gold standard for wetlands conservation in North America,” said Ducks Unlimited CEO Adam Putnam. “Every dollar invested in the program is typically doubled or tripled by matching contributions, making it an incredible return on investment that benefits America’s hunters, migratory bird populations and outdoor economy. This program maintains its success through consistent, bipartisan support from Congress and the Administration, and we’re ready to help turn this investment into habitat that will further sustain waterfowl populations."

South Carolina's coastal plain is home to an estimated 7.7 million acres of wetlands, representing 95% of the state's total wetland area. However, the region has lost over 10 million acres of wetlands since the late 18th century, with current threats including rapid development, habitat fragmentation, deforestation, sea level rise and climate change impacts.

"This project comes at a critical time when coastal South Carolina is experiencing some of the most rapid rates of habitat loss and urbanization in the South Atlantic region," said Ducks Unlimited Manager of Conservation Programs Ed Farley. "The Carolina Wetlands and Watersheds II project will provide essential habitat connectivity and climate resilience for our priority species."

The project will benefit numerous high-priority waterfowl species, including the American Black Duck, Mallard, Mottled Duck, Northern Pintail and Lesser Scaup, while protecting crucial habitat for threatened and endangered species such as the Eastern Black Rail, Rufa Red Knot and Northern Long-eared bat.

A key component of the Carolina Wetlands and Watersheds II project is its commitment to public access. All 5,080 acres included in the initiative will be publicly owned, managed, and accessible year-round for recreational use. The project areas, including Snow's Island, Little Carr and Cane Patch (Samworth WMA) and North Tibwin Phase II, will continue providing valuable hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and hunting opportunities.

The project brings together diverse conservation partners, with the South Carolina Office of Resilience joining as a new NAWCA partner alongside existing collaborators. This partnership approach emphasizes the critical role that public and private lands play in supporting waterfowl and migratory species throughout North America.

This award builds upon the success of the Carolina Wetlands and Watersheds I project, which received NAWCA funding of $2,994,759 in February 2023 for protection and enhancement projects throughout the coastal plain region.