BIG CAHOONAS TR

For a Resilient, Thriving Charleston Coast

BIG CAHOONAS TR is an independent 501(c)(3) public charity based in Charleston, South Carolina. We restore coastal habitats, reduce shoreline erosion, and strengthen community resilience to climate change.

501(c)(3) · Public charity (170(b)(1)(A)(vi)) Community & Coastal Restoration Charleston, SC
At a glance
50+ acres
marsh restored
20,000
native trees (2025–27)
24 + 12
cleanups & workshops
  • Pilot 2 nature-based shoreline protection demonstration sites.

We publish quarterly highlights on impact and finances to stay transparent and accountable.

About Us

We focus on coastal ecosystem restoration, shoreline erosion mitigation, and community capacity-building. All donations are tax-deductible under U.S. law.

Who We Serve

  • Residents of Charleston and nearby coastal communities.
  • Households vulnerable to flooding, storm surge, erosion, and saltwater intrusion.
  • Local clubs and small businesses committed to environmental stewardship.

Vision

A greener, safer, and more climate-resilient Charleston where people and nature thrive together.

Goals (2025–2027)

  • Restore 50+ acres of marsh/mangrove-like habitat and plant 20,000 native trees.
  • Run 24 shoreline/beach cleanups and 12 community workshops.
  • Establish 2 demonstration sites using nature-based solutions to curb erosion.

Programs

  • Habitat Restoration: Plant native species, re-shape tidal flats, and pilot oyster-reef modules to dampen wave energy.
  • Community Learning (non-formal): Workshops for residents, fishers, and small businesses on conservation, plastic reduction, and storm readiness.
  • Monitoring & Open Data: Track water quality, erosion/accretion, and biodiversity; release quarterly open summaries.
  • Volunteer Mobilization: Weekend field activities for Charlestonians to take climate action together.

Upcoming: Spring Week of a Resilient Coast

Target weekends: Mar 14–15 or Mar 21–22, 2026

  • Community forum · Beach & tidal-flat cleanup · Native tree planting (optimal spring root-set).
  • Hands-on demo of nature-based shoreline protection.
  • Spring fundraising evening to power 2026 projects.
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Get Involved

  • Weekend Volunteering: Cleanups, planting, and oyster-reef installation.
  • Sponsor a Site: Fund part or all of a restoration plot.
  • Community Partners: Team up with after-school clubs and green-minded businesses (no formal schooling services).
  • In-kind Support: Gloves, compostable bags, planting tools.