SI For All Celebrates 5 Years!
This Fall marks the 5th anniversary of Sullivan’s Island for All, the grassroots advocacy group that has become a powerful voice for conservation, community, and responsible stewardship of one of the Lowcountry’s most unique natural environments: the Sullivan’s Island Maritime Forest.
What began in 2020 as a concerned group of neighbors has grown into a lasting movement, united by one mission — to protect the maritime forest that lines the island’s accreted land. This thriving ecosystem of trees, dunes and wetlands is not only a buffer against storms and rising tides but also a haven for wildlife and a rare natural sanctuary in an increasingly developed coastline.
A Turning Point for the Island
The formation of Sullivan’s Island for All came at a critical time. After years of legal battles over whether and how much of the maritime forest should be cut back or cleared, many islanders felt their voices weren’t being heard. In response, residents came together to push for transparency, science-based land management, and an inclusive public process that recognized the ecological and cultural value of the forest.
Since then, our group has helped shift the public conversation around the maritime forest — from a so-called “nuisance” to be destroyed, to a natural resource worthy of protection. Through public forums, educational events, and partnerships with conservation groups, Sullivan’s Island for All has championed the idea that responsible environmental policy can go hand-in-hand with community well-being.
Victories and Challenges
Among the group’s most significant achievements was drumming up public awareness that led to a record-breaking voter turnout in the May 4th 2021 town election that saw every incumbent who voted against the forest tossed out of office. The nonprofit’s advocacy continued and led to a January 30, 2023 court ruling that invalidated the Settlement Agreement entered into by the previous Town Council that would have allowed the destruction of our unique Maritime Forest. Our effots have always been rooted in recognizing the forest’s role in protecting the island.
Other amazing highlights have been the Town’s hiring of a Resource and Resilience Director, Rebecca Fanning and the beautiful trail enhancement in the forest starting at Station 18-1/2. None of this would have been possible without your continued support.
Still, the work continues. With sea levels rising and development pressures mounting, the fight for conservation is far from over. The group remains vigilant, tracking new proposals, engaging with town officials, and ensuring that environmental protections are enforced. As we mark our fifth anniversary, Sullivan’s Island for All is not just looking back — we’re looking ahead. We hope yo will consider continuing this legacy of conservation by joining us as a supporter, donor and even a board member. Learn more, get involved, and support the cause at SullivansIslandForAll.org.