The Pee Dee Tribal Forest was the inspiration for the Justice Conservation Model project. The Pee Dee Indian Tribe partnered with Dogwood Alliance. Together, we developed a shared vision. One where we centered conservation and protection of wetlands. One that could break the cycle of abuse and exploitation the tribe and their land have suffered. The tribe previously owned 15 acres of wetland forest. Together, we purchased 76.91 acres of wetland. We conserved 91.9 acres in total.
Justice Conservation is about forest preservation and conservation solutions. The projects are in environmental justice communities and territories in the Southeast. Industrial logging and climate change hit these communities and tribes hard.
Many thought this area was undesirable to visit or invest in. But this project is changing that. It is attracting visitors. It’s drawing outdoor enthusiasts to the region to camp and kayak. The tribe was even able to open the Pee Dee Indian Tribe Educational Center. Now people can experience the cultural heritage of the Pee Dee Tribe firsthand. This is bringing wealth, light, and hope to the Indigenous community.
This community-based solutions project is replicable.
Healthy wetlands are critical for clean water and climate resilience. Wetlands support life. But they’re under threat.
Urge your state elected officials to protect all types of wetlands. Each one has an important role to play!
Donate