A New Space For Construction

With the recent expansion of the Conservancy’s marsh restoration living shoreline project along the Kiawah River, a new build site has taken shape, and it’s something to see! The goal? To construct an impressive 800 manufactured wire reefs (MWRs) that will continue to strengthen our sea island’s marsh habitats.

Leading the charge, restoration and enhancement specialist Sean Cannon and long-time volunteer Buddy Franklin have devoted countless hours transforming the Conservancy’s preserved property along Betsy Kerrison Parkway into a hub of restoration activity. 

This newly developed space is now a well-organized work site, complete with six build stations, two cutting stations, new walkways, and a functional parking area. A framed enclosure now houses oyster shells, while nearby pallets hold the completed MWRs, ready for transport to the shoreline.

“We’ve got a lot of MWRs to build, so this workspace needs to be efficient,” Buddy shared with a smile, surveying the newly finished area.

And efficient it is. On three crisp, golden mornings, a combined total of 89 volunteers gathered to officially break in the new site. Laughter and teamwork filled the air as small groups assembled MWRs piece by piece — by the end of the three sessions thus far, an impressive 184 MWRs have been built. 

The Sustainability Institute plays an essential role in these efforts, guiding volunteers through the process. Their AmeriCorps members, who are engaged in habitat restoration projects across the state, will continue partnering with the Conservancy throughout this initiative. 

“It’s a great opportunity for our AmeriCorps members to meet the community and teach what they’re learning and also about the program. We’re excited to be involved with the deployment of these MWRs that are actually going to help our shorelines,” said Marni Friedman, director of conservation at the Sustainability Institute.

This new site is more than just a workspace — it’s a place where conservation, community, and camaraderie come together. We invite you to roll up your sleeves, join in the effort, and see the new site for yourself. Several build days are scheduled through February, with installation dates being announced in the spring.