Between the population centers of Myrtle Beach and Charleston, an approximately fifty-mile section of undeveloped coast forms a large natural reserve in the fastest growing state in the nation. Even though this coast has received international recognition – as a UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Reserve, and a unit in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network – the area has achieved a limited identity.

These dynamic barrier islands are a refuge for a diversity of habitats, a wealth of wildlife, and threatened and endangered species. Various state, federal, and private agencies manage these natural resources, conduct scientific research, and educate the public. These lands and waters offer the public the opportunity to explore the wildness and connect with the natural world, experiences Bob Raynor has participated in for several decades.

The importance of these lands has continued to grow to offset rapid coastal development, both locally and all along the Atlantic Coast. Increased local population, climate change with resulting rising sea level, current and future invasive species, and reduced government resources for managing public lands, are existential threats.

Raynor, noted historian, naturalist, author, and Awendaw resident, will give the Festival keynote on the riches of the Wild Coast of South Carolina at 4:00 pm at the Sewee Center in Awendaw.

Raynor is the author of several books, including Exploring Bull Island, Tracing the Cape Romain Archipelago, and The Santee Delta Waters & Voices.