GEORGETOWN, S.C. — Hundreds of people took time to bask in the beautiful weather, enjoy several baskets of steaming oysters and help the Pee Dee Land Trust Saturday afternoon.
The non-profit organization — aimed at protecting agricultural and historical resources in the Grand Strand and Pee Dee — raised nearly $11,000 at its fourth annual Oyster Roast at Hobcaw Barony.
More than 250 members gathered outside the historic Hobcaw House where the highlight of the day — besides the oysters and chili — was the awarding of the William H. Chandler Stewardship Award for the second time.
The award, described by PDLT Executive Director Jennie Williamson, is “the highest honor conferred by the organization.”
Michael G. McShane of Charleston, the recipient of the award, is the outgoing chairman of the board of directors of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
Williamson said McShane was chosen “for his dedication to preserving ecologically and historically important lands in the Pee Dee Region during his tenure, which began in 2003.”
She noted the Marsh Furniture Tracts and Woodbury Tract in Marion County were purchased by DNR during this time.
“We are proud to recognize Mike McShane,” said Ben Zeigler, former chairman of the board of the Pee Dee Land Trust. “Though Mike is from Charleston, and has been very active in the Lowcountry conservation efforts, he is cognizant of the fact that conservation in South Carolina is inextricably intertwined among our varying regions. By acknowledging the importance of the Pee Dee’s natural resources and history, he is taking a strategic approach that benefits the entire state.”
The Pee Dee Land Trust, since it was formed 11 years ago, has protected nearly 12,000 acres in eight counties. That includes 1,970 acres in Georgetown County.
“Thanks to the support of our members through events like the Oyster Roast, we have been able to grow exponentially since late 2005,” commented Williamson. “We are thankful to our sponsors, members, and guests for making the 2010 Oyster Roast such a tremendous success.”
By Scott Harper
sharper@gtowntimes.com
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