Lowcountry Chapter Field Trip - Longleaf Pine & Grassland Restoration at Beidler Forest

NOTE: Registration will open two weeks prior to the field trip on November 2, 2024.

Longleaf Pine & Grassland Restoration – Birds and Native Plants at Beidler Forest

Time: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Trip Leader: Matt Johnson, Center Director, Beidler Forest Audubon Center & Sanctuary

Meeting location: Beidler Forest grassland trail parking lot (33.216007, -80.365897). This gravel parking lot is located right beside the main entrance to Beidler Forest. Street address is 336 Sanctuary Road, Harleyville, SC 29448.

Trip description: While most people know Beidler Forest for its 1,800 acres of old-growth swamp, Audubon South Carolina also works on restoring thousands of acres every year as part of this sanctuary. Part of this restoration is now open to the public as part of the woodland-grassland trails near the entrance to the visitor center. Join Audubon staff for a casual hike through restored Longleaf Pine savanna and native grasslands, looking for plants, birds, and other critters!

Additional details: The trail is approximately two miles long over uneven terrain. We suggest wearing long pants and hiking shoes. Part of the trail is in open sun, so a hat may be useful. Bring water and snacks. Participants are welcome to bring binoculars if they have them; a limited number will be available to borrow. Restrooms are available in the Beidler Forest visitor center (approximately one mile from the meeting location). Picnic tables are available in the parking lot for the visitor center for those wanting to bring lunch. Participants are invited to walk the 1.75-mile boardwalk through the swamp afterwards, though note that an admission fee is required for this.