Beaufort County Natural Resources Committee June 15, 2026 @ 4:30 PM

The Beaufort County Natural Resources Committee held a special meeting on June 15, 2026, primarily to discuss two major land acquisition projects aimed at preserving natural spaces. The committee reviewed a proposed $7.7 million acquisition of the Broad Creek Marina Tract on Hilton Head Island, with the Town of Hilton Head as the applicant, and a $42 million grant recommendation to The Nature Conservancy for the purchase of the New River Forest property near Bluffton. Both projects involve conservation easements and long-term management plans to ensure public access and environmental sustainability. The committee did not take action but prepared to forward recommendations to the full County Council for approval. Public comments raised concerns about the high purchase price, road access, traffic impact, and ongoing maintenance costs. Committee members and staff addressed these concerns by explaining due diligence efforts, appraisal processes, and anticipated state and federal funding support for infrastructure and management. The meeting emphasized the importance of these acquisitions for long-term environmental preservation and public benefit, with the understanding that final decisions and formal actions would occur at the upcoming County Council meeting.