2025 CVSC & CVSCEF Annual Report

2025 Annual Report

CVSC & CVSC Education Fund

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2025 Annual Report

Dear Friends, Thank you for your steadfast support over the years. Your dedication to conservation has been the cornerstone of our efforts for more than 22 years, protecting South Carolina’s air, land and water while bringing these critical issues to the attention of our elected leaders and voters. We appreciate your contributions to elevating the work of Conservation Voters of South Carolina (CVSC) and Conservation Voters of South Carolina Education Fund (CVSCEF). Because of you, important environmental topics and the protections that support them are discussed far and wide, from kitchen tables in our homes to conversations within the halls of government.

In 2025, your actions and generosity powered some bold efforts for CVSC and CVSC PAC. We addressed the major growth issue in our state by introducing SC Prosper & Preserve, which includes a suite of sustainable land-planning tools to help communities address sprawl and congestion. With a commitment to developing innovative solutions that deliver economic benefits, we made significant progress in addressing an issue affecting communities across the Upstate, the Midlands, and the coast. We also challenged and opposed energy legislation that poses considerable risks and high costs for ratepayers and could hinder progress toward a more sustainable, cleaner energy future.

Furthermore, CVSC also designed new ways for conservationists across the state to lend their voice and take action through the Conservation

Advocates Alliance. We’re continuing to spotlight preservation in conservation by working toward the protection of our state’s Rosenwald Schools, a project we, along with a number of partners, hope will become part of a trail network that preserves historic lands and the story of these schools.

CVSC actively participated in several special elections for House races across the state, strategically forging relationships and generating momentum as we gear up for the pivotal election year in 2026, a year critical for electing more conservation champions to the General Assembly.

CVSC Education Fund also celebrated milestones. CVSCEF launched the South Carolina Electric Cooperative Engagement Program, a new initiative designed to deliver avenues of participation for member-owners of South Carolina’s 19 electrical cooperatives. CVSCEF also continued with our dynamic leadership program, the Palmetto Leadership Academy.

In its second year, this program helps aspiring leaders connect with opportunities to step into leadership roles surrounding conservation decisions on public boards and commissions.

CVSCEF continues to lead and connect South Carolinians across the state with resources to inform the public. We’re also proud to serve as a facilitator of transformative partnerships and coalitions, because we believe a strong conservation movement starts with coordinated, focused collaboration.

The conservation movement in South Carolina is on the rise, and to support this momentum, our staff and the Board of Directors have unveiled a new 10-year strategic plan. This plan will steer our efforts toward achieving bold and measurable goals over the next decade. We’re proud to work alongside you, our dedicated supporters, who generously contribute your time and resources. Together, we are energized to carry out this important work every single day.

This annual report serves as a reflective overview of a significant year, underscoring the achievements made possible through your generous support. We are committed to advancing our mission and ensuring that conservation remains a priority across the state. The upcoming year presents many challenges, but with your continued support, we are motivated to create positive change and improve our state for future generations.

I cannot express enough how excited I am to be back with CVSC and to continue this work alongside you. It means a great deal to have such strong support behind this work, and I know that together we are well-positioned to make an undeniable impact on this place we call home.

With gratitude and determination,

Meagan Diedolf President CVSC

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CVSC Mission CVSC fights for our air, land and water through bipartisan and

pragmatic political action, making conservation and environmental

issues a top priority among South

Carolina’s elected leaders, political candidates, and voters.

Board of Directors Mark Robertson, Chair

Willie Morgan, Secretary & Treasurer Catherine Edwards

1,813 Donors & Action Takers 4,326 Online Actions Taken 3,286 Emails to Legislators

on Social 10,565 Followers Media Platforms

Joined the 95 Advocates Conservation Advocates Alliance

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Fellows through the Palmetto Leadership Academy

Greg Gregory

Conservation Advocates Alliance

Mary Anne Inglis

Alliance (CAA) , a growing statewide network of everyday

Arnold Nemirow

in their own communities. In its first year, 95 advocates

Kevin Kay

In 2025 CVSC formed the new Conservation Advocates

Lee Manigault

South Carolinians standing up for conservation and equity

Taylor Speer

joined the CAA, representing 22 counties and completing

Ann Warner

470 hours of activism.

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CVSC Vision Our vision for South Carolina is one

where natural resources are recognized as an irreplaceable part of our

economy, history, and culture — and where economic development and conservation goals align.

2025 Annual Report

Staff Meagan Diedolf, President

Anna Kimelblatt

John Brooker

Meredith McNeely

Emily Doscher

Evan Renshaw

Zach Bjur

Shea Maple

Jalen Brooks-Knepfle

Tori Oluseyi

Kate Durand

Erin Siebert

Katie Welborn Hagan

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Letter from CVSC Board Chair Dear Friends and Supporters, 2025 reminded us what’s possible when people come together

CVSC as Senior VP for Policy and Government Relations. In that role,

support, Conservation Voters of South Carolina continued working to

year also marked the launch of a new strategic plan to guide this

around a shared commitment to South Carolina’s future. With your

protect our air, land, and water while helping communities across the state chart a more sustainable path forward.

That shared commitment translated into meaningful progress

she helped shape key policies and build strong relationships. Last

work for the next ten years. These changes show our commitment to taking action and improving the protection of South Carolina’s environment.

for conservation statewide. This year, CVSC introduced a suite

These accomplishments reflect the power of partnership. Your

unprecedented growth. CVSC continued pushing for energy policies

for conservation. One that shows up consistently, builds lasting

of new tools to help local governments plan responsibly during

that are cleaner and more affordable for South Carolina families, and launched innovative new ways for supporters to take action

and make their voices heard through a new program known as the Conservation Advocates Alliance.

CVSC also proudly celebrated conservation leadership through

the 17th Annual Green Tie Awards, honoring incredible individuals

working at the Statehouse and in communities across South Carolina to preserve precious open land and protect our state’s rich natural

support ensures that CVSC remains a strong, credible voice

relationships, and delivers real results for our state. Because of you, conservation has a seat at the table where decisions about South Carolina’s future are made.

Thank you for standing with CVSC. Your dedication inspires us every day and makes our successes possible. Together, we are shaping a future for South Carolina where nature thrives and people prosper.

Here’s to continuing this important work in the year ahead!

heritage.

With gratitude,

In 2025, CVSC made important changes. In the fall, we welcomed

Mark Robertson Chair, Board of Directors

Meagan Diedolf back as our new President. After roughly a year away as the Director of State Government Affairs at Charter

Communications, Meagan returns, building on her prior work with

CVSC

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2025 Annual Report

Legislative Priorities SC Prosper & Preserve

TDRs offer a market-based approach to

Sandy beaches, golden marshes, and quiet

conservation areas can sell their development

forests characterize the landscapes of South Carolina. Across the state, South Carolinians cherish these natural features. This deep

passion underscores the importance of land

protection, which remains central to our mission.

managing growth. Landowners in designated rights to developers, who use them to build

in targeted growth zones. This directs density to the right places while creating a financial

incentive to protect our landscapes, all without relying on public funding.

As South Carolina’s population grows, our

This approach not only facilitates expansion in

balanced approach to development. Instead

objectives, ensuring the protection of the

state has an important opportunity to find a of attempting to halt development, CVSC is

pursuing a more measured strategy to mitigate these challenges.

In 2025, CVSC introduced the SC Prosper &

Preserve initiative, proposing land-use planning tools to help local governments manage rapid development. With support from nearly two

dozen bill sponsors and committed partners, CVSC sought to build momentum for these creative solutions.

The first, Transferable Development Rights

(TDR) serves as a valuable tool for communities

aiming to strategically manage growth in a way that aligns with their infrastructure capabilities.

suitable locations but also supports community features and resources that matter most.

Through TDRs, communities can balance the need for development and growth with the

desire to maintain the character of places we call home. These programs can even benefit agricultural land by enabling farmers to

generate income through development rights, which they can reinvest in their farms.

CIR fosters sustainable planning by aligning

infrastructure development with community expansion, helping to preserve the unique

identity and character of our state. This strategy guarantees that as populations grow and new neighborhoods arise, the necessary facilities and services are accessible to all residents.

Ultimately, implementing CIR promotes

responsible, forward-thinking development that helps to maintain the identity of a place while

removing some of the burdens that may fall on current residents and local governments.

Thoughtful planning is crucial to ensure that development is aligned with infrastructure

capabilities, as rapid growth without adequate support can lead to increased congestion and

strain on vital resources. By working together, we can foster a thriving environment that preserves

our state’s unique charm while accommodating progress.

Concurrent Infrastructure Requirements

This vision, coupled with Governor McMaster’s

development is accompanied by essential plans

acres of land in our state, lays the foundation

these requirements, taxpayers can be better

Together, thanks to your passion for this work,

(CIR) play a crucial role in ensuring that future

2025 announcement to preserve 10 million

for roads, schools, and utilities. By establishing

for making significant strides in this crucial work.

prepared for the expenses that come with

we are making a remarkable impact.

community growth.

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Securing South Carolina’s Future In 2025, CVSC developed a new strategic plan to ensure we are ready to meet the environmental challenges facing South Carolina

today and in the years ahead. Informed by the real and growing

environmental threats facing communities across South Carolina including, sprawling development, rising energy costs, and

increasing pollution of our air and water, this plan focuses on the

long-term strides needed to protect what makes our state unique, now and for generations to come.

At CVSC, people are at the heart of our work. We know that a

healthy environment is inseparable from our health and quality of

life. This 10-year strategic plan reflects our commitment to building a strong, durable bench of conservation leaders, both at the

Statehouse, within local governments in communities across South Carolina.

That means training advocates, supporting candidates for both

elected and appointed offices, and equipping everyday citizens to navigate public processes that too often feel inaccessible.

Creating meaningful change requires bold action, bold investment, and a bold vision for the future. As you’ll see throughout this report, CVSC is developing new and innovative ways for those who care

deeply about this work to engage and lead. We invite you to learn

more about our strategic plan and to join us in shaping a stronger conservation future for South Carolina.

Scan to view our strategic plan online

CVSC Financial Overview (Unaudited)

C4 Income

Total: $1,661,317

C4 Expenses

Total: $1,601,539

81%

9%

10%

Grants $1,343,865

Individuals $151,008

Other $166,444

5%

18%

77%

Fundraising $84,686

Admin $289,956

Programming $1,226,897

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CVSC Donors

Abacus Planning Group Hal & Cookie Adams Bill & Penny Agnew Paul & Robyn Agnew Arlene Andrews Nancy Appel Linda Ashley Audubon South Carolina Laura Bagwell Dana & Virginia Beach Richard Beck & Karen Lovelace Kara Berly Andy Berly Charles & Frances Bethea Elise Blackwell Lisa Blighton Deborah & Gilbert Boissonneault Tara Boone Laura Booth Carla Borders Barbara & William Bowers Sally Boyd Jim Bradley Amy Bradshaw Mary Bull & Craig Kridel Guilford Bulman Robert Bunch Moultrie & Fran Burns Robert Byko Joseph Cantey Meta Carter & Eileen McGuffie Les Case Nancy & William Cave CCM Investment Advisors Ed Chaplin April Childress Coastal Conservation League Coca-Cola Consolidated Wes & Ann Cooler Peter & Lucy Cram Michael Criss Jeannie B. Croxton Cumulus Media

Thank you to our generous donors. We are deeply grateful to the following donors who made cumulative gifts of $100 or more in 2025.

Catherine Cuneo Jason Czerwinski Donna Davis Frank DeBolt Deer Park Water Peter Delorme Steve Dennis Curtis & Arianna Derrick Mimi Dias Ann Dibble Debra Dickinson Robert Donelson Gloria Douglass Susan Dressler Beverley DuBose Michael & Jean Durkee Elliott & Elliott, P.A. Ed Epps Barbara Ervin Sue F. Fehr First Tuesday Strategies Forward Communications Francis Marion Hotel Suzi Garland Basil Garzia Harriette Gause Ed Good Mark & Diane Gould Courtneylove Gowans Greentech Renewables Richards Gregory Kay Grinnell Becky & Evan Groth Dvera Hadden Mitchell Hambright Stephen Hanson David J. Harmon Rebecca Hartness John Hartz & Susan Grey Kay Haun Karin Haupstein Richard & Connie Hayes Rebecca Haynes & Bobby Davis

Laurel Society Donors

Susan Hilfer Glenn & Heather Hilliard Stephen & Susan Hoffius Horry County Solid Waste Authority Marie Ingle Rob & Cailey Inglis Carol Jackson Trish Jerman & Mark Tompkins Gerrit Jobsis Timothy Joy Bill Kee & Frank Lee Linda Ketner Margaret Kherlopian Lauren Kindred Anthony J. Koelker Wade Kolb Robert J. Kosinski Judith Kramer & Peter Wallace Lawrence LaBonte David & Betsy Lamp Carolyn Lattanzio Wannelle & Marty Lefkowitz Joe & Ruth Lesesne Herbert Lord Carole & Joe Lyles John Maccarthy Erwin & Nancy Maddrey Lee Manigault Shea & Nichole Maple Deb Matherly Maynard Nexsen PC Suzanne McCullough Clarkson & Mary Ann McDow Cecily McMillan Meredith & Scott McNeely Arthur Meeder Willie Morgan Wendy Zara & Dean Moss Naturaland Trust Linda Neely Nelson Mullins Ruth & Charles Nicholson OceanaGold Haile Operation

The Grove Donors

Kevin O’Hara Glenn Olf Jeanne Owen Palmetto Pride Linda Parker Charles & Celeste Patrick Tony & Brooke Peay Jennie & Vincent Pezé Ashley Pfirman Bess Pierce Davis C. Poore Catherine Powell Christopher Pracht William Prioleau David Quick Elliotte Quinn Lou & Robert Rainey Bruce & MaryRose Randall Renewable Water Resources Ezra Riber Mark & Debbie Robertson Amy & Martial Robichaud Craig Robinson Jeanne Robinson Robinson Bradshaw Nick & Marcelle Ross Tony & Joenne Royal David Ruef John & Geales Sands SCACED Andrea G. Schechter Robert Schofield SC Women Lead Senior Golfers of America Norm Sharp Harry Shealy Liz Shelly Harold & Joanne Shuman Bill Simpson Gary Smith Philip Snead Richard Sommer South Carolina Native Plant Society

South Carolina Water Utilities, Inc Southern Environmental Law Center Spartanburg Water Gaye & Joel Sprague Eve Stacey Patricia & Mark Stamey Peter Stangel James F. Stewart Joseph Sullivan Sun Solutions Sustain South Carolina Sustaining Way Cynthia Swanson Powell Jim Taylor John Thompson & Julia Forrester Timberlake Communications Trust for Public Land William Turner John & Mary Virginia Tynan Upstate Forever Herman Walker Tanner Wall William Want Ann Warner Cheryl Watson Margaret Watson Elizabeth D. Watson David Whiteman & Lee Jane Kaufman Dan & Sherrie Whitten Mary Wilder Terry Williams Chisolm Wilson Lee Wilwerding Ellen Wood Ann Willbrand & Pat Woody Dr. Rhonda Wright Brad Wyche & Diane Smock June Yanick Andrew Yasinsac & JoAnne Day

Green Tie Sponsors

Thank you for following the work of CVSC to protect South Carolina’s treasured spaces and natural resources. Please consider a gift of your own in support of SC’s environmental future.

Visit cvsc.org/give. Contributions to CVSC are not tax deductible. To make a tax deductible gift in support of South Carolina’s air, land, and water please visit cvscef.org/contribute.

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2025 Annual Report

CVSC & CVSC Education Fund

Leadership Carrying Conservation Forward in South Carolina In 2025, CVSC entered an exciting new chapter

with the return of Meagan Diedolf as our President.

Meagan previously served as CVSC’s Senior Vice President of Policy & Government Relations from 2021 to 2024, where she played a critical role in

advancing CVSC’s policy agenda and building bipartisan support for conservation priorities

across South Carolina. Her leadership helped

strengthen relationships at the Statehouse and

beyond, ensuring that environmental protection

“South Carolina is growing at a remarkable pace, but

there is a shared desire across regions and political lines to

remained a shared value across party lines.

protect what makes our state

Meagan brings a deep understanding of South

uniquely positioned to build on

Carolina’s political landscape, a proven track

uniquely beautiful. CVSC is

record of effective collaboration, and a clear vision

that momentum by bringing

the strong support that makes this work possible

trusted bipartisan relationships,

for the future. Meagan looks forward to building on

together strong policy expertise,

as CVSC continues to protect South Carolina’s air,

and grassroots support to help

land, and water for generations to come.

turn that vision into lasting conservation outcomes.”

— Meagan Diedolf

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CVSC Education Fund Mission

CVSC Education Fund is dedicated to maximizing the

participation of conservation-minded citizens in decisions

regarding South Carolina’s environment, natural resources, and community health made at the state and local levels.

Board of Directors Cynthia Powell, Chair

Arnold Nemirow, Vice Chair Ken Harvin

Michael Brown Susan Hilfer

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2025 Annual Report

Letter from CVSCEF Board Chair Dear Supporter, As the Board Chair of the Conservation Voters of South Carolina

boards and commissions. By equipping fellows with the skills and

the remarkable progress we made in 2025. Your contributions help

the PLA is cultivating a new generation of leaders committed to

Education Fund, I thank you for your support in helping us achieve us to expand our accomplishments. By educating, engaging, and

empowering South Carolinians about the threats to our air, land, and water, we are making a significant difference together.

In our commitment to South Carolinians, CVSCEF facilitates

knowledge to champion conservation from within these institutions, safeguarding South Carolina’s environment and communities. Since

launching the program in 2024, nearly 90 individuals from across the state have graduated from the PLA and are actively pursuing and stepping into meaningful conservation leadership roles.

community forums, workshops, and educational webinars. These

Finally, our CVSCEF staff continues to lead and strengthen

are heard in the crucial decisions that affect us collectively. As we

organizations and community leaders who share a deep investment

initiatives make sure that voices from every corner of our state

look ahead to 2026, we are proud to lead an expanding network of passionate advocates. Our supporters and friends are dedicated

both to preserving South Carolina’s natural landscapes and also to enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

Also, CVSCEF launched new resources through the South Carolina Electric Cooperative Engagement Program to help families better understand their roles as member-owners of our state’s electric

cooperatives. By increasing awareness and civic participation, we, along with our partners, are strengthening community voices in decisions that shape South Carolina’s energy future.

In 2025, we continued the Palmetto Leadership Academy (PLA), a

program designed to prepare aspiring leaders to serve on public

partnerships and coalitions across the state, working alongside in South Carolina’s future.

Thank you for being a vital part of this effort. Your dedication to

conservation education and community engagement drives our

progress and makes all of this possible. Together, we are shaping a more informed, empowered, and resilient South Carolina for future generations.

Again, many thanks –

Cynthia Swanson Powell Chair, Board of Directors CVSCEF

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Key Achievements and Impact | CVSCEF Palmetto Leadership Academy

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South Carolina counties represented

by PLA

86%

of PLA alumni have applied to public board or commission

30%

have been appointed or elected to a position

71%

have attended or participated in public meetings

South Carolina Electric Cooperative Engagement Program

The Palmetto Leadership Academy (PLA),

South Carolina Electric Cooperative Engagement Program

in its second year. The PLA graduated two

empower, and mobilize members-owners of South

a program of CVSCEF, continued to grow

cohorts of fellows, a total of 47 dedicated participants. So far the program has

assisted with an exciting 17 placements

on public boards. These placements have included workforce development and

zoning commissions boards, conservation advisory councils, historic neighborhood

association boards, and local democracy leadership councils.

In a survey of PLA alumni, to assess

(SCECEP) is a conservation-driven initiative to educate,

Carolina’s 19 electrical cooperatives. Cooperatives in South

Carolina serve more than 1.5 million people. In 2025, CVSCEF and its partners launched mysc-coop.com, including a

comprehensive scorecard tool that cooperative members can use to see how their utility provider stands in critical

areas. Electric cooperatives were scored on a number of

metrics, including board transparency, member access to

decision-making, availability of energy-efficiency resources, and access to clean energy programs such as residential rooftop solar.

strength of the program, 86% reported

With assistance from SCECEP, Dr. Debbie Bryant was elected

policy in South Carolina. 100% of alumni

vote. With CVSCEF’s campaign support, Dr. Bryant brings

public service or leadership roles.

conservation, cleaner and more diverse energy options.

improved understanding of conservation

to Berkeley Electric Cooperative’s Board with 65% of the

reported increased confidence to pursue

a perspective Berkeley Electric Cooperative, rooted in

Another cohort of PLA fellows kicked off in September of 2025, and will wrap up in May of 2026.

The SCECEP website also offers ways for member-owners to get involved and take action. View the scorecard and all of the resources on mysc-coop.com.

2025 Annual Report

CVSCEF Financial Overview (Unaudited)

C3 Income

Total: $1,399,942

C3 Expenses

Total: $1,169,231

74%

20%

6%

Grants $1,033,848

Individuals $275,754

Other $90,340

4%

4%

92%

Fundraising $51,985

Admin $45,647

Programming $1,071,599

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CVSCEF Donors

Thank you to our generous donors. We are deeply grateful to the following donors who made cumulative gifts of $100 or more in 2025.

Bill & Penny Agnew

Carol & Brooks Gallagher

Kevin & Julia Kay

Susan Robinson

Carrie Agnew

Emily Gay

Bill Kee & Frank Lee

Betsy A. Russell

Tom Balliet

Betsy & Samuel George

Kathleen Kempe & Ron Sobczak

Mary Ryan-Morris & Kevin Morris

Howell & Nancy Beach

Greenville Water

Tom & Sandra Kester

Charles Sasser

Henry & Kitty Beard

Greg & Sherri Gregory

Cassandra King

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Schulze

Blackbaud Giving Fund

Kent & Coleen Griffin

Jessica Lathren

Susan Hill Smith

BlueCross Blue Shield of South Carolina

Nikki & Allen Grumbine

Wood & Janice Lay

Sonoco Foundation

Boeing

Rick Hahnenberg

William & Joanne Lehman

Eve Stacey

Jim & Marian Brailsford

Susan Hamilton & Thomas Gross

Joe & Ruth Lesesne

Susan & Russell Stall

Butler Conservation Fund

The Harriet & Herbert Keyserling

Valerie Marcil & Henry Nechemias

Jim & Emelia Stephenson

Peter Maronge

Christy Taucher

William & Ylva Byars

Endowment

Charlotte Caldwell & Jeffrey Schutz

Carroll Heyward

John McClanahan

Thad & Judy Timmons

Matthew & Elsbeth Chaney

Susan Hilfer

Christe McCoy-Lawrence

Mike Tinkey

Andrea & Edwin Cooper

Harriet Holliday

Jamie McCulloch

Brad Turley

Cindy Cox & Randall Gaston

Bill Holt

Kyle Michel

Unite America

Wade Crow

Marion Huggins

Mills Bee Lane Memorial Foundation

Jan & Ron Urban

Harry Dalton

Julia Krebs & Roger Hux

Willie Morgan

Laurie Walden

Elizabeth Darden

Bo Ives

Arnold Nemirow

Bill & Winnie Walsh

Connie Darden-Young

Arlene Jacquette

Tori Oluseyi

Meira Warshauer & Sam Baker

Ann Donaldson

James F & Nelle E Burgess Foundation

Paul T. Palmer Jr

Dick Watkins

Steve Dopp & Wendy Meyer Dopp

Jay James

Dwight Patterson, Jr.

Tad Whiteside

Carol Ervin

Ben Johnson & Elizabeth Caughman

Mandy Powers Norrell & Mitch Norrell

Brad Wyche & Diane Smock

Gerry & Walter Fiederowicz

Andrea & Carson Johnson

Jackie & Jean Rion

Martha Fowler

John & Susan Jordan

Mark & Debbie Robertson

Friends of Bald Rock

Ramona Jordan

Katherine Robinson

Laurel Society Donors

The Grove Donors

Green Tie Sponsors

Thank you for following the work of CVSCEF to protect South Carolina’s treasured spaces and natural resources. Please consider a gift of your own in support of environmental future.

Visit cvscef.org/contribute.

Thank you for standing with us to protect the South Carolina you love!

Conservation Voters of South Carolina: cvsc.org

Conservation Voters of South Carolina Education Fund: cvscef.org

(803) 799-0716 • 712 Richland Street, Suite A • Columbia, SC 29201