Permanent protection of Captain Sams Spit moved a major step closer Tuesday, August 11, when the South Carolina General Assembly approved funding for the state’s $32 million share of a $37 million settlement agreement that would preserve the property in its natural state and end nearly two decades of litigation over its future.
The $37 million settlement would be funded by $32 million from the State of South Carolina, $3.7 million from the Town of Kiawah Island and $1.3 million from Conservancy of the Sea Islands.
The agreement secures the Spit as a permanently protected landscape, prohibiting development and restricting significant human impacts to a critical wildlife habitat.
“This is an important step in ensuring the preservation of Captain Sams Spit and maintaining public access to this extraordinary natural resource,” Mayor Brad Belt said. “It reflects the continuing commitment of the Town of Kiawah and Kiawah community to steward our natural environment for the benefit of future generations.”
Once all the closing conditions are satisfied, the Highland Area of the Spit would be owned by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, which would pursue the approvals needed to formally designate it as a Heritage Trust Preserve. The Oceanfront Area would be owned by the State of South Carolina, with public access preserved. Both areas would be protected by a permanent conservation easement held by Conservancy of the Sea Islands.
The parcel that includes Beachwalker Park would transfer from private ownership to the Town of Kiawah. The change in ownership would not affect current park operations or public access.
The General Assembly’s action clears a significant funding hurdle, but the settlement is not yet effective. The state budget now awaits action by the Governor. The settlement agreement must also receive court approval and satisfy the remaining closing conditions before the property transfers occur and the lawsuits are dismissed.
As this process moves forward, the Town of Kiawah remains committed to supporting long-term stewardship of Captain Sams Spit and protecting the natural resources that define Kiawah Island.
-Submitted by: Town of Kiawah Island
(Image credit: SCELP)