The College of Charleston is home to some of the most innovative research in environmental studies, and nowhere is this more evident than at Stono Preserve. This majestic 981-acre property, situated along the Stono River and the Intracoastal Waterway, serves as a vibrant living laboratory for students and faculty alike. With its diverse ecosystems—including longleaf pine forests, wetlands, savannahs, tidal marshes, and various freshwater and saltwater ponds—Stono Preserve offers unparalleled hands-on experiences for both undergraduate and graduate students across multiple disciplines, from marine biology to forest management and historic preservation.
A Passion for Research
One of the graduate students making the most of this unique environment is Jake Coffman, who specializes in herpetology within the Environmental Studies program. “I came to the College of Charleston because I’ve always wanted to do research like this,” Jake shares. “The Stono Preserve really spoke to me, and those who ended up being my advisers told me what a great place this was—and they were not wrong.”
Jake’s research focuses on comparing species diversity between unmanaged Loblolly Pine and restored Longleaf Pine habitats at Stono Preserve. “I’m trying to compare the species diversity between two habitats,” he explains, highlighting the importance of understanding the ecological differences within the preserve.
Research and Education
Stono Preserve is more than just a backdrop for research; it is a platform for education and community engagement. The College of Charleston’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident through its collaboration with the Lowcountry Land Trust to restore Stono Preserve to its original purpose as a “conservationist’s classroom.” This strategic plan aims to restore and maintain native, diverse ecosystems to provide experiential learning opportunities for students and faculty.
Jake notes the supportive environment at the College of Charleston, stating, “The college has been very helpful in helping me do the research I want to do out here.” His research utilizes various collection tools, including drift fences and coverboards, to gather data on reptiles and amphibians. He emphasizes, “Stono is just amazing. My favorite thing about Stono is that it’s pretty much untouched, and there’s such a unique mosaic of habitats here that you would otherwise just not be able to see in its truest beauty.”
A Place for Collaboration
The dynamic setting of Stono Preserve inspires collaboration across campus, industry, and governmental agencies. It enables the College of Charleston to educate its students in an unparalleled natural setting while preparing them to be leaders in today’s environmentally volatile, global society.
Furthermore, Stono Preserve enhances educational outreach and distance learning initiatives that benefit residents, young and old, in the surrounding community. Jake notes, “I just love being out here, surrounded by it with nothing else to bother me.” This sentiment resonates with many who find inspiration in the preserve’s tranquil environment.
Looking Ahead
As Stono Preserve continues to evolve into a hub for environmental education and research, the College of Charleston is dedicated to creating minimalist support facilities that allow for maximum immersion in nature. This transformation will ensure that Stono Preserve remains an urban refuge for those interested in and appreciative of the natural world around us.
Jake Coffman and his fellow students are fortunate to be part of this transformative journey, making meaningful contributions to the understanding and preservation of our environment. With the support of the College of Charleston, students like Jake are not only conducting valuable research but are also preparing to tackle the pressing environmental challenges of our time.
