In recognition of Land Trust Day this Saturday, June 6, the Columbia location of Mast General Store will donate 20 percent of all sales to the Congaree Land Trust.
Representatives from Congaree Land Trust will be on-site to meet with customers and share information about the organization’s work to protect local land and waterways.
Land trusts play a vital role in preserving scenic landscapes, protecting wetlands and wildlife habitats, and creating accessible shared spaces for recreation. These nonprofit organizations—also known as conservancies—work with landowners and community partners to acquire land, establish conservation easements, preserve family farms, and expand public lands at the local, state, and national levels.
Across Mast General Store’s footprint, land trusts help make communities more livable, support local economies, and preserve the natural character of the regions they serve.
“I feel blessed that all Mast Store locations are hosting active land conservation groups. The work these partners do touches our lives every day in ways we can see and in ways we benefit from without realizing it,” said Lisa Cooper, president of Mast General Store.
The Congaree Land Trust has protected more than 100,000 acres of land across 14 counties in the Midlands. Over the past three decades, the organization has promoted voluntary conservation efforts that support economic growth, encourage healthy lifestyles, safeguard clean air and water, and enhance overall quality of life.
“Most people think of pastoral views when they hear the word ‘conservancy,’ but much of the work involves restoring wetlands that reduce flooding and improve water quality, creating greenways for alternative transportation, and protecting wildlife habitats,” Cooper said. “That’s why it’s important to our Mast Store team to support these organizations and help others better understand their impact.”
The public is invited to visit the Columbia Mast General Store on June 6 to learn more about the Congaree Land Trust and the outdoor spaces it has helped preserve throughout the community.
For more information, visit the Congaree Land Trust online at www.congareelt.org.