Santee Cooper proposes potentially destructive transmission line through Beidler Forest
Audubon joins environmental groups to intervene in proceedings to protect unique, old-growth forest
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Francis Beidler Forest, the world’s largest original-growth cypress-tupelo swamp forest, would face irreversible impacts if an application currently being considered by the South Carolina Public Service Commission is approved. The application comes from Santee Cooper, the state-owned electric and water utility, seeking to build a transmission line partially through an existing right-of-way in the forest. On behalf of the National Audubon Society, the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) has intervened in the proceedings, raising concerns about the irreversible impacts of the proposed project on the forest, which is internationally recognized for its ecological and cultural significance.
Audubon and SELC statements on the proposed application:
“If this project moves forward as proposed, it would involve clearing old-growth portions of Beidler Forest that have remained intact for all of human history. We’re engaging at the Public Service Commission to make sure the forest stays protected for the visitors, ecosystems, and wildlife that rely on this special place.”
- Rebecca Haynes, National Audubon Society’s Audubon South Carolina Executive Director and Vice President
“Beidler Forest is one of the last original-growth forests in the state, making any clearcutting of the ancient forest unconscionable. This project must be denied until Santee Cooper takes every action possible to avoid damaging this irreplaceable South Carolina treasure.”
- Kate Mixson, SELC Senior Attorney
About National Audubon Society
The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Audubon.org
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