The Palmetto Bluff Conservancy is dedicated to increasing our understanding of the natural and cultural environment of the Lowcountry. From biological and archaeological studies by Ph.D.-level scientists to the “citizen science” bluebird survey, the Conservancy team is actively involved in a number of research initiatives at the Bluff. Current projects include surveying alligator, turtle, white-tailed deer and bird populations; monitoring bald eagle nests; studying cavity-nest use and correlation with habitat; and analyzing artifacts from antebellum Pettigrew Plantation.
Environmental data is incorporated into the development conversation on an ongoing basis. This allows the Conservancy to maintain, manage and enhance the biodiversity at Palmetto Bluff. It is a project that, much like Mother Nature, will never stop.
Water Quality
Water Quality
As good stewards of the land, we too must protect the creek and river systems that surround our edges. Lagoon systems are designed to absorb runoff from homes and road systems to ensure there is drainage away from the creeks and rivers. To complete the cycle, we take our bodies of water that are catching runoff and naturalize them with aquatic vegetation and fish to be used for recreation and to kick-start a highly functioning freshwater ecosystem.
Habitats
Habitats
Palmetto Bluff has over 20 different habitat types. With that amazing diversity comes remarkable biodiversity. If a species lives in the Southeast, you will find it here, making Palmetto Bluff home to hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, mammals and amphibians.
Indicator Species
Indicator Species
Our research centers on the indicator species that are the first to be affected by development. We know that if our work affects an indicator species, other species will soon follow suit. Our current research is focused on bats, bluebirds, cavity-nesting species, swallow-tailed kites, insects (which are the base of the food chain) and small mammals.
Species of Concern
Species of Concern
Species of concern are those whose population are threatened, endangered or of high ecological importance. We work with state and federal wildlife agencies to ensure that these species — bald eagles, bats, wood storks and oysters — are not being displaced or disrupted.
curious about life at the bluff?
