Jul

Toast to the Trees 2025

Toast to the Trees 2025: Honoring Land, Legacy, and Conservation

On April 24, 2025, Katawba Valley Land Trust (KVLT) held its annual “Toast to the Trees” celebration at the Ivy Place in Van Wyck, South Carolina. From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., guests gathered to acknowledge the significance of preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Catawba River Valley.

Set on a 170-year-old property at 8603 Van Wyck Road, the Ivy Place provided a beautiful and meaningful setting for the event. Guests enjoyed live music, complimentary food and drinks by New South Kitchen and Bar, and a welcoming atmosphere among fellow conservation advocates.

The highlight of the evening was a keynote address by Dr. Austin Jenkins, a naturalist, educator, and the first executive director of KVLT. A native of Camden, Jenkins has devoted his career to conservation through his work with the South Carolina Wildlife Federation and as an instructor in the SC Sandhills Master Naturalist Program. Now a professor at USC Sumter, he shared powerful reflections on the value of land protection and environmental stewardship.

KVLT’s mission—to preserve open lands, waterways, scenic vistas, and historic resources in the Catawba River Valley in South Carolina—was front and center throughout the evening. “KVLT relies on its membership and donors for funding,” said Board President Andrew Lazenby. “We are so grateful to those who make our work possible.”

Following Lazenby’s speech, Board Vice President Elizabeth Hyatt discussed the significance of the childhood classic book, “The Lorax,” written by Dr. Seuss, which highlights the importance of environmental stewardship. Some hard copies of the book were handed to some of the evening’s donors, including our youngest future conservationist in attendance, 11-year-old Owen Thomas.

Executive Director Dr. Michelle Evans emphasized the real impact of local support. “Your contributions help us protect and preserve the land, support general operations, and provide environmental education within our communities,” she said. “And a huge thank you to the Graham family for offering this venue for this event, and protecting the remainder of their property in a conservation easement.”

Then, prior Board President Mark Grier offered the official toast to the trees, honoring and celebrating the late Lindsey Pettus, who founded the land trust in 1992. Since then, KVLT has conserved nearly 14,000 acres in Lancaster, Chester, Kershaw, and neighboring counties. As development continues to rise, KVLT works with landowners, communities, and partners to preserve the region’s natural character and agricultural roots.

The annual “Toast to the Trees” event, which raised more than $20,000, is both a celebration and a call to action. It honors the legacy of KVLT’s founder and highlights the ongoing need to protect green spaces that contribute to the region’s quality of life.