BY GHIA QUINO
I began my time with Aiken Land Conservancy as an intern in October 2024. My first project focused on gathering landowner information around the Shaws Creek/South Fork of the Edisto Strategic Focal Area to share the benefits of placing conservation easements on their property. By April 2025, 170 letters were mailed out, which resulted in 10 positive responses and more than 1,000 acres now in line for permanent protection through conservation easements.
From there, my role with ALC grew into a wide range of meaningful experiences. I assisted with monitoring properties to track the condition of conserved lands and contributed to writing conservation management plans which showed me how detailed planning and long-term stewardship go hand-in-hand. Monitoring visits also introduced me to important species and diverse habitats. While I still have plenty to learn in plant and bird identification, Peter and Ryne have been significant in helping me develop those skills.
ALC also introduced me to the Black Magic Land Management group, where I gained hands-on experience with prescribed fire. These opportunities gave me a firsthand understanding of how carefully managed burns support healthy ecosystems. Since my first prescribed burn in January 2025, I have participated in more than 10 burns, and I hope to continue assisting in future efforts.
One of the projects I am most excited to see develop is the reintroduction of red-cockaded woodpeckers to Boyd Pond Park. I wrote my first grant proposal to the Augusta-Aiken Audubon Society, which provided $500 in support of the project, and created my first sponsorship packet to share with potential donors. I also assisted with the January 2025 prescribed burn at Boyd Pond Park, which marked the beginning of the restoration effort. Because of these experiences, Boyd Pond Park now holds a very special place in my heart.
Beyond fieldwork, I had the chance to join guided hikes and engage with the community, which deepened my appreciation for how conservation connects people with the landscapes around them. My time with ALC has expanded my knowledge of native plants and trees and given me a clearer understanding of the unique conservation challenges and opportunities we face in Aiken County. Each of these experiences has strengthened not only my professional skills, but also my personal commitment to protecting and caring for our natural resources.
As I look ahead to a career in environmental conservation, I know that the skills, experiences, and inspiration I’ve gained through ALC will serve as a strong foundation. This internship has reaffirmed my passion for conservation and strengthened my commitment to protecting the lands and resources that make our community so special. I plan to stay involved in the field and continue broadening my knowledge across the many dimensions of conservation.
I would like to extend my gratitude to Bev and Stan Nahman for their generous support of the intern program. It brings me great joy to know that the program will continue, offering more students the opportunity to learn from and care for this organization as I have.
A special thanks also goes to Peter Kleinhenz and Ryne Huggins, who have been incredible mentors throughout my time at ALC. Their guidance, encouragement, and willingness to share their knowledge made my internship truly impactful. I am deeply grateful for their mentorship and the role they have played in shaping my growth.