Women making history in the Upstate

In honor of Women's History Month, we invite you to meet six remarkable women that have taken on a challenging issue or task related to conservation, community vibrancy, or advocacy (or all three!) in the Upstate. These remarkable, driven women — first featured in the 2022 edition of the Upstate Advocate — have persevered and achieved remarkable things for their communities and our region. 

P.S. We are working on the upcoming issue of Upstate Forever's biannual publication, the Upstate Advocate. If you're not on our mailing list and would like to receive a future copy in your mailbox, please send an email to Ava Thacker at athacker@upstateforever.org with your mailing address.

Rocky River Nature Park workday

Thank you to volunteers who helped us remove invasive plant species at Rocky River Nature Park last week. Removing invasive plants that can outcompete natives in this critical Upstate habitat helps enhance foraging and nesting areas for native and migratory species. Take a look at our workday photo album

Waterfalls and wildflowers

Spring has arrived! As the days get longer and the wildflowers begin to bloom, it's a great time to start planning your next hike. Listen to the birds, see the native flowers, and view the local waterfalls in all their splendor. We've put together a list of less traveled Upstate trails for you to check out this spring.

Energy Efficiency presentation

UF's Energy Advocate Michael Coleman was invited to speak at the Hispanic Alliance's February Networking Meeting. He shared information about the Energy Efficiency program with Duke Energy Carolinas, the Inflation Reduction Act, and how community members can directly access their benefits.

Energy rate hikes public hearings

In April the Public Service Commission will host five public hearings in the Upstate for Duke Energy Carolinas' planned rate increases. We encourage ratepayers to voice concerns with energy burdens by registering for the hearings here. Find out other ways to participate by visiting our website.

More news, information & updates

Announcements

• We are excited to share that acclaimed writer Ron Rash has joined UF's Advisory Council. We are delighted to welcome Ron to the Upstate Forever family and look forward to hearing his perspective on the transformations unfolding in the Upstate.

Upcoming events

• "A Community-Centered Climate Future" — 2024 CCL Southeast Conference | April 6 - 7. Citizens' Climate Education/Citizens' Climate Lobby is hosting their conference at Furman University. Check out the agenda and buy your tickets for an opportunity to explore commonsense climate solutions.

• The Spartanburg Criterium | April 26th beginning at 3:15 p.m. Don't miss the so-called "fastest night in the Upstate." Sponsor the event, reserve your tent, or register your child for the Kids' Ride here. All event proceeds will benefit Spartanburg nonprofit PAL: Play. Advocate. Live Well.

• Pickens County Native Plant Jubilee | May 4th from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Celebrate native plants, pollinators, and sustainable gardening at this free event. Check out the arts, craft vendors, demonstrations, and speakers while you're there!