Question 1

What is the Dataw Island Conservancy?

Accepted Answer

The Conservancy was created jointly by the DIOA and the DIC Boards to work to  permanently protect and preserve our natural heritage and promote appreciation for the unique environment and character of the Island. It is organized and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, and will take on the responsibility for guiding the community to safeguard our precious legacy of clean water, native vegetation, abundant wildlife and scenic views enjoyed by all. As neighbors on this Island of Friends, the Conservancy has a special responsibility to protect and preserve these resources, not only for the benefit of current residents but for the enjoyment of generations to come. It is a charitable organization with 501(c)3 status.

Question 2

What is the mission of the Dataw Island Conservancy?

Accepted Answer

The mission of the Dataw Island Conservancy is to assist in the preservation of Date Island’ environmental character by attempting to permanently conserve, maintain and manage the natural areas and habitats of the Island and its surroundings; and encouraging an appreciation of, and interest in, the Island’s natural resources by the residents of Dataw Island.

Question 3

Does the Dataw Island Conservancy have a political agenda?

Accepted Answer

No. The Dataw Island Conservancy's by-laws prohibit it from engaging in, espousing, or supporting political causes or discussion of any kind.

Question 4

What is the Conservancy's scope of operation?

Accepted Answer

The Conservancy is authorized to conduct its work on DIOA common ground as well as on Dataw Club property. When advisable, some projects might extend onto private property, but only with the express knowledge  of the Board of the DIOA/DIC.

Question 5

What kinds of projects will the Conservancy conduct?

Accepted Answer

The Conservancy encourages worthwhile ecology projects submitted by residents.

Projects presently underway or under consideration include: 
1. Construction and placement of bird nesting boxes e.g. barn owls and blue birds 
2. Monitoring and reporting of Purple Martin bird house eggs and fledglings 
3. Nesting platforms for Ospreys  
4. Christmas Bird Count and Great Birdyard Bird Count 
5. Elimination of invasive vegetation, e.g. ChineseTallow tree 
6. Sponsorship of "Nature Day" at Camp Dataw 
7. Educational events e.g. “Nature Talks”, Marsh Memeorial Dinner & Presentation  
8. Electronics recycling in conjunction with Beaufort County collections 
9. Oyster reef substrate building in Morgan River under SCDNR 
10. Financial support for tree plantback, fertilization and lightning protection 
11. Development of an Ecology Guide  
12. Development of a Habitat Management Plan

Question 6

Where does the Conservancy get its funding?

Accepted Answer

There were and are four major methods of funding: 
1. In 2012, the DIOA and the DIC Boards voted to collectively provide $2,000.00 each year for 3 years to help pay for necessary administrative and legal expenses associated with establishment of the organization. This funding ended in 2014. 
2. Former Club equity members may donate their equity refund rights.  
3. "The Supporters of the Dataw Island Conservancy" membership dues. 
4. Fundraiser, i.e. Oktoberfest

Question 7

What is the "Supporters of the Dataw Island Conservancy"?

Accepted Answer

"Supporters" is a group of interested  individuals who appreciate the natural beauty of Dataw Island and want to play a role in helping to preserve and maintain that beauty as Dataw continues to grow as a residential community.  Members may help with nature projects, serve on committees from time to time;  help plan and assist at fund raising events; and through their annual contributions, provide financial support to the Conservancy.

Question 8

How do I join the "Supporters of the Dataw Island Conservancy?

Accepted Answer

Membership in the "Supporters" is open to all Dataw Island property owners, all Dataw Island Club members and all Dataw Island management and staff personnel. Membership contributions are $ 50.00 per household per year. Send cash or check made out to:

The Dataw Island Conservancy, Inc.  
100 Dataw Club Road  P.O. Box 819 St. Helena, SC 29920

Frequently asked questions