Congaree Land Trust announces the conservation of additional 271.79 acres of land in Chester County

CHESTER COUNTY, SC—Congaree Land Trust (CLT) is proud to announce the permanent conservation of a nearly 272-acre property in Chester County.

The property, KP Farms, represents Congaree Land Trust’s third conservation easement in Chester County and lies adjacent to an existing protected property, bringing the number of contiguous acres conserved by CLT to more than 1,360. The site includes productive forest land, where landowner Kevin Keller partakes in sustainable forestry practice, growing and harvesting loblolly pine trees.

“I always taught my kids to leave things better than they found them. What began as an investment quickly became something much more — a place of learning, solitude, and family connection. Protecting this land through a conservation easement is the most meaningful step I could take as a steward, ensuring it's preserved for my children, grandchildren, and generations to come,” said Keller.

With this new easement, the land will remain permanently protected from future development or land uses that could compromise its natural character and ecological value. This project not only secures a vital piece of Chester County’s rural landscape but also strengthens the growing network of conserved lands throughout the Midlands.

The protection of KP Farms was made possible by the generous donation of the landowner and a grant from the South Carolina Conservation Bank.

“Private landowners are the true heroes in the protection of family land,” said Raleigh West, director, South Carolina Conservation Bank. “We commend the Kellers’ commitment and are honored to support this effort.”

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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 100,000 acres have been conserved, representing 220 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.