Charleston Area Development Of Timber Tract Emphasizes Conservation

"MeadWestvaco wants a national park-sized area of forests near Charleston developed into what it calls an environmentally friendly community.

MeadWestvaco executives said they want to provide a model development in the 72,000-acre area, east of the Edisto River, that combats sprawl in the booming Charleston area.

Some of the land would be developed. Other parts — the size now unknown — would be preserved. The idea is to cluster new homes, schools, shops and other amenities together.

The project, to be called East Edisto, would include green space and natural areas. The project’s master plan, to be developed after receiving public input, would guide which areas are developed and which are protected."