The Upstate Update: July 2021

The Upstate Update is a digital newsletter curated and shared each month that offers insights into Upstate Forever's recent work, highlights upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, and shares other conservation and advocacy news.

We post the Upstate Update here on the Upstate Forever blog each month. If you would like to receive the Upstate Update directly in your email inbox, please sign up for the mailing list.

Action Alert! Greenville, your attendance is needed this Tuesday, July 20

On Tuesday, July 20, two very important items are on the agenda for Greenville County Council: The first, a public hearing and vote at 2nd reading for a proposed ordinance that would replace the controversial local land development regulation Article 3.1, provide for rural conservation subdivision design standards, and strengthen traffic-management requirements for residential development throughout the unincorporated area. The second, a motion to amend the upcoming County budget to include funding for the Historic and Natural Resources Trust (HNRT).

Please join us in person in Council Chambers (301 University Ridge) on Tuesday at 6:00 pm. Signs will be available for you to show your support during each of these votes.

Click here to read more in this month's Upstate Update

Also in this month's update:

• How your support makes a difference
  By supporting Upstate Forever, you can help ensure Upstate residents for decades to come have access to the remarkable greenspaces, life-giving farms, clean and abundant waters, and thriving communities that we know and love today. Please click here to make a one-time or monthly donation. Support our work

• Stop by and see us at the "Crit!"
  Spartanburg's fastest night is right around the corner! Hosted by PAL on Friday, August 20, this exhilarating bike race turns the heart of the city into a one-of-a-kind block party. Stop by the Upstate Forever tent on Broad Street to chat with our team and enjoy a front-row view of the action. We'll see you there!

• Septic repair funding available
  If you own a septic tank and live in the Three and Twenty Watershed, you may be eligible for up to 60% cost share in septic tank repair or replacement. This is part of a partnership with Anderson Regional Joint Water System to implement a watershed-based plan to protect drinking water sources. Damaged or improperly maintained septic systems can be a significant source of bacteria to surface and groundwater resources. Check your eligibility here

View this month's Upstate Update