February 3, 2024- Coastal Warriors, a veterans resilience group coordinated by Coastal Expeditions Foundation, participated in the annual Francis Marion Forest Cleanup with Palmetto Pride as part of their commitment to service on our public lands.

The 250,000 acres of Francis Marion National Forest, located north of Charleston, South Carolina provide critical habitat to plants and animals native to the Lowcountry, including endangered species like the Red-cockaded Woodpecker  and Bachman’s Sparrow.  The old growth bottomland forests provide specific habitats for migratory birds like Prothonotary Warblers and Swallow-tailed Kites. This biologically diverse forest boasts over 1,600 species of plants, including 32 orchid species and 12 carnivorous plant species.

Unfortunately, Francis Marion National Forest has become a place where illegal dumping is commonplace. With the extensive networks of roads that weave through the forest, it is easy for people to dispose of personal trash and contractor debris. On seldom-travelled roads, dump piles are seen along the roadsides.

Hundreds of volunteers showed on Saturday to tackle these areas of concern, including a group from Coastal Expeditions and the Coastal Warriors.

We worked on a site that was a combination of construction debris (drywall, insulation and related items) and personal trash.  It was too much for one day’s work, so we’ve “pinned” the site and plan to return to finish the task.

The Coastal Warriors program is sponsored by Boeing South Carolina through a partnership grant that enables Coastal Expeditions Foundation to mentor local veterans with PTSD and depression through sea kayaking and service projects. Boeing works to build better lives for transitioning military service members, veterans and their families.  The Veterans Sea Kayak Resilience Program focuses on building relationships and life skills to reduce post-traumatic stress and prevent suicide.

Want to join us on an upcoming environmental service project? Everyone is welcome and we’d love to have you.