The 25th anniversary event summary

Seabrook Island Green Space Conservancy (SIGSC) celebrates 25 years!!

 

On December 5, 2025, SIGSC proudly celebrated 25 years of preserving and protecting the natural beauty of Seabrook Island. This milestone event was a testament not only to SIGSC's enduring mission—to preserve and enhance Seabrook Island’s natural environment through:

  • Land and easement acquisition

  • Education and conversations about conservation

  • Advocacy for the long-term protection of our island’s natural assets

but also, to the dedication and generosity of the surrounding community. The celebration brought together long-time supporters, new friends, and passionate advocates for conservation.

The event took place at Camp St. Christopher, and despite the rainy weather, we were fortunate to have a spacious indoor venue complete with a large, covered porch. The staff was exceptional, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone. Guests enjoyed oysters, appetizers, beer, and wine, along with a special cocktail provided by Kyle from the Seabrook Island Club on the porch. Live music was provided by the camp band who was accompanied by our very own Seabrooker, Carl Voelker.  The evening continued with a delicious low country boil, culminating in the excitement of the online auction results which raised more than $11,000.

SIGSC President, Vickie Bibee, expressed her gratitude to our sponsors, especially our Presenting Sponsors, Stuart Rumph and Chip Olsen of Seabrook Island Real Estate, and our Live Oak Sponsor, Emery MacPherson, whose generosity made this anniversary celebration possible. The support of our sponsors ensured a memorable evening and directly strengthens our ongoing stewardship efforts.

Vickie also recognized Roger and Vivian Steel, our Honorary Chairs, and the first couple to have donated their land over a decade ago. Over the past 25 years SIGSC has initiated and facilitated the transfer to SIPOA of 46 properties totaling 32 acres with permanent conservation easements on Seabrook Island. We are deeply thankful to all who have contributed to the ongoing preservation of our beautiful island.

Vickie took a moment to reflect on the crucial work that lies ahead, highlighting several key initiatives:

  • Land Conservation: Over 100 lots and nearly 50 acres remain undeveloped. These lots present opportunities for full or partial donation, supported by community fundraising efforts.

  • Marshland Protection: Hundreds of acres of marshlands, both inside and outside the gate, are currently involved in private development partnerships. While we may not be able to protect every area, we can certainly focus our efforts on preserving some of them.

  • Advocacy for Green Spaces: Vickie emphasized the vital role of SIGSC in advocating for the preservation of green spaces, promoting native and sustainable landscaping, and protecting essential marshland ecosystems.

·         Education and Community Engagement: Saving land is vital, but conservation is also about understanding how to care for it. SIGSC will continue its efforts to bring more education and engagement opportunities to the community including:

o    Workshops on the importance of native plants 

o    Programs for marshland and wildlife preservation 

o    Expert presentations in conservation science 

o    Hands-on projects that encourage community involvement

Together, we reflected on a quarter-century of achievements, recognized the volunteers and visionaries who helped shape SIGSC, and renewed our shared commitment to protecting the island’s green spaces for generations to come.

As we look toward the future, we remain inspired by the community’s unwavering support. The success of this event reinforces what we have long known—that preserving the natural landscapes of Seabrook Island is a collective effort, and one that thrives because of people who are committed to sustaining Seabrook’s natural beauty.

On behalf of the Seabrook Island Green Space Conservancy, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the resounding success of our 25th Anniversary Celebration.

 

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Celebrating 25 years of conservation!