Congaree Land Trust announces the permanent conservation of Stone Farm in Lexington County
LEXINGTON COUNTY, SC—Congaree Land Trust (CLT) is proud to announce the permanent conservation of an additional 51.66 acres of land in Lexington County. This conservation success was made possible through a fully donated conservation easement from landowner Reita Stone and the Stone Family, whose gift ensures the lasting legacy of this cherished landscape.
Stone Farm, once actively managed agricultural land, is now a thriving property made up of beautiful hardwoods, open fields, and a scenic pond. The land continues to reflect its roots while offering vital natural habitat and green space in a region experiencing rapid growth. Lexington County remains one of the fastest-growing counties in South Carolina, underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts that protect open space, safeguard water resources, and preserve the region’s rural heritage.
"When my husband, Bill Stone, first saw this land in 1960, he knew it was home – and we never moved again. For 65 years, our family has cared for this land. It’s where our children grew up, and it’s still home to our son, granddaughter, and their families,” said Reita Stone. “We feel deeply blessed by God to have had the chance to protect it, and we simply don’t want to see it developed."
With this conservation easement in place, this land will remain forever protected from commercial development, subdivision, or other uses that could compromise its natural integrity and scenic character, as a part of vital efforts to preserve the region’s viewscapes and rural vistas.
"This project represents a meaningful step forward in our mission to protect the Midlands’ working lands and natural landscapes," said Stuart White, Executive Director of Congaree Land Trust. "As suburban development continues to expand, conserving properties like Stone Farm ensures that future generations can experience the natural beauty and agricultural traditions of Lexington County."
This conservation achievement reflects Congaree Land Trust’s ongoing commitment to voluntary, landowner-driven conservation across central South Carolina.
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About Congaree Land Trust:
The Congaree Land Trust (CLT) is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization committed to conserving the natural and scenic lands of central South Carolina. To date, over 99,000 acres have been conserved, representing 221 individual conservation properties across 15 counties. Conservation easements help protect the natural areas that sustain our state's natural resources, provide clean water & wildlife habitat, and define our way of life.
