Katawba Valley Land Trust Celebrates Annual Business Meeting
On Thursday, October 9, the USC Lancaster Carole Ray Dowling Center was lively with activity as the Katawba Valley Land Trust (KVLT) hosted its annual business meeting, sponsored by Edible Landscapes, owned by Gil Burnette. Sixty members attended for an evening of acknowledgment, reflection, and community.
Following dinner, Executive Director Michelle Evans led the program, joined by Board President Andrew Lazenby, Vice President Elizabeth Hyatt, Treasurer Jodie Plyler, Secretary Jill Marshall, and President-Elect Linda Williams, each offering updates and insights into KVLT’s ongoing conservation efforts.
Toward the end of the business portion of the meeting, two prestigious awards were presented. Austin Jenkins received the Lindsay Pettus Conservation Award, and Kip Carter was honored with the Lindsay Pettus History Award. Both recipients were gifted original sculptures by renowned South Carolina artist Bob Doster, each featuring three Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies—a nod to KVLT’s branding and logo.
Guests enjoyed a hearty meal of BBQ, sides, and dessert, and were surprised with a special gift: a print of “Rocky Shoals Spider Lily – Full Flower Moon,” captured by South Carolina nature photographer Ted Borg. The venue was beautifully decorated with vibrant mums, creating a festive fall atmosphere for the gathering.
The event not only celebrated the Trust’s achievements but also reaffirmed its mission to protect the natural and historical treasures of the Catawba River Valley.
