The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) is a three-day celebration of wildlife and nature through fine art, conservation education, sporting demonstrations, food, drink and the people who honor and respect them all. The largest event of its kind in the US, SEWE makes its home in Charleston, South Carolina and plays host to hundreds of artists and exhibitors, plus experts in wildlife and nature art. Everyone is eager to share their art and insights with more than 40,000 attendees.

I happen to be one of the attendees this year. It was an incredibly satisfying experience where I got to learn more about wildlife especially the Harris Hawk. I learned that the Harris Hawk is a conspicuous bird of the desert and savannah environments. They have the capacity to capture both large prey such as jackrabbits and small, maneuverable birds. Unfortunately, it has disappeared from some former areas, such as lower Colorado River Valley; some attempts have been made to reintroduce the species. In the past, it was threatened in some areas by illegal taking for falconry.

I think going to these events really makes you aware of the importance of conservation and wildlife. Conservation not only protects native plants, birds, and animals, but it also protects us as well.  Deforestation now has taken its course and has been affecting the planet. All these animals depend on the forest to live and survive. The need to conserve resources often conflicts with other needs. For some people, a wooded area may be a good place to put a farm. A timber company may want to harvest the area’s trees for construction materials. A business may want to build a factory or shopping mall on the land. All these needs are valid, but sometimes the plants and animals that live in the area are forgotten. The benefits of development need to be weighed against the harm to animals that may be forced to find new habitats, the depletion of resources we may want in the future (such as water or timber), or damage to resources we use today.Development and conservation can coexist in harmony. When we use the environment in ways that guarantee we have resources for the future, it is called sustainable development. There are many different resources we need to conserve in order to live sustainably.

Additionally, as I was walking around, I came across one of the many organizations at the SEWE event which was the South Carolina Environmental Law Project (SCELP). They are a non-profit public interest law firm, dedicated to the protection of South Carolina’s environment. They are the only such organization that focuses exclusively on South Carolina which I found that really interesting.

Overall, SEWE’s impact on Charleston and the state continues to grow, as does its popularity. Each year, it generates an estimated $50 million; it provides the public with easy and affordable access to wildlife and nature conservation programs; it increases awareness about the need to protect our natural environment; and, it celebrates our collective love for wildlife, nature and our role in enjoying them for generations. Conservation is important for our future and the future of our kids.