October 17, 2025 – Aiken, SC — The Aiken Land Conservancy (ALC) joined conservation partners and community members for the dedication of the Korn Tract, a 302-acre addition to the Aiken Gopher Tortoise Heritage Preserve. The newly protected land expands the preserve by nearly 20% and will help safeguard rare species—including the state-endangered gopher tortoise—while buffering a tributary of the Edisto River.
When opened to the public, the Korn Tract will enhance outdoor recreation opportunities and ensure long-term protection of a diverse range of habitats and wildlife.
During the ceremony, Shannon Bobertz, Chief of Staff for the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), emphasized the statewide significance of the acquisition. She noted that projects like the Korn Tract advance Governor McMaster’s conservation goals and are made possible through strong partnerships and shared commitment to land protection.
ALC Executive Director Peter Kleinhenz spoke to the ecological importance of the expansion and expressed gratitude for the organizations that helped make the project a reality, including SCDNR, the South Carolina Conservation Bank, and the Lowcountry Land Trust.
Former landowner Mr. Korn delivered heartfelt remarks about his decision to sell the property for conservation. He reflected on the difficulty of parting with the land but shared his appreciation in seeing it permanently protected for wildlife and for the public to enjoy.
“We are grateful to all who had a hand in this project,” the Aiken Land Conservancy said in a statement. “We look forward to sharing updates when the Korn Tract officially opens to the public.”
