Natural resources are gaining increased attention'in the human environment. Both urban and rural communities are seeking to set aside river corridors, wetlands, lakeshores, greenways, and other natural amenities in order to meet growing demands for open space. Many communities see the availability of open space as critical to the overall quality of life. In order to meet open space needs and provide new recreational and economic opportunities, many communities are vigorously attempting to revitalize urban riverfronts.
In recent years, several southeastern cities have initiated efforts to restore viability to forgotten or ignored rivers. Some examples include the Chattahoochee River near Atlanta, the James River in Richmond and the Tennessee River in Chattanooga. For the same reasons, the urban communities of the midlands of South Carolina have initiated efforts aimed towards riverfront planning and development. Columbia, West Columbia and Cayce have recognized opportunities presented by the Congaree River by preparing master plans for the Congaree Vista in Columbia and the Congaree riverfront properties in West Columbia and Cayce. Unlike many communities, these urban centers of the midlands possess not one but three rivers.
These three rivers, the Congaree, the Broad and the Saluda, offer opportunities co meet a variety of the community's evolving recreational and economic demands. This study examines the resources of the lower Saluda River and the opportunities it presents to the community.
Note: Thanks to the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism and to the Water Resources Commission. Much of the information and a few of the images in these pages came, in part and with some amedndment, from their publication The Lower Saluda River Corridor Plan.
Go back to the River Page.