The National Wildlife Federation

Community Profile

Pledge Status

Complete

Pledge Date

Friday, January 6, 2023

Program Year

2023

Achievement

Signatories

2023

Links and Uploads

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Action Item Report

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City of Greenville SC

Greenville, SC

Knox White

Mayor

Pledge Summary

Situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville is the major metropolitan area of the Upstate region of South Carolina with a population of over 70,000. Greenville’s reinvigorated downtown serves as the focal point, contributing significantly to the city’s rising reputation as one of the best places to live in the United States. The city features more than 400 acres of parkland, including Unity Park, Greenville’s newest park featuring state-of-the-art playgrounds, expansive green spaces, pedestrian bridges and walking trails and Falls Park on the Reedy River, featuring impressive natural waterfalls, gardens, nature trails and the Liberty Bridge, a striking pedestrian suspension bridge. Adding to the city’s distinctive charm is the Swamp Rabbit Trail, 22-miles of multi-use greenway that traverses along the Reedy River. The City of Greenville takes great pride in its parks and recreation system and the natural environment. Providing habitat for pollinators including Monarch butterflies is important to support the natural ecosystem, public and private gardens, and overall environment. The City of Greenville is committed to saving the monarch butterfly and other pollinators with the signing of the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge.

Community Spotlight

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Reedy River Falls at Falls Park

Far more than a nature lover's paradise, Falls Park on the Reedy, located in downtown Greenville's Historic West End, is one of Greenville's greatest treasures.

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The River Bench at the Commons in Unity Park

The Commons was designed to create a “pedestrian— and family friendly gathering space” where the energy of downtown meets the enjoyment of relaxed entertainment and recreation.

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Legacy Park Gardens

Opened in 2008, Legacy Park was inspired by New York City's Central Park. Nestled in a residential area, the park includes rolling greens, water features, colorful landscaping, playgrounds and paved pathways ideal for walking, jogging and biking.

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The Liberty Bridge at Falls Park

Greenville's unique Liberty Bridge honors Liberty Corporation founder W. Frank Hipp and his children, Francis M. Hipp, Herman N. Hipp, B. Calhoun Hipp, and Dorothy Hipp Gunter for their commitment and contribution to the Greenville community.

Action Items Committed for 2023

Communications and Convening

  • Issue a proclamation to raise awareness about the decline of the monarch butterfly and the species’ need for habitat. This proclamation must incorporate a focus on monarch conservation.

Program and Demonstration Gardens

  • Launch, expand, or continue an invasive species removal program that will support the re-establishment of native habitat for monarch butterflies and other pollinators.
  • Plant or maintain a monarch and pollinator-friendly demonstration garden at City Hall or another prominent or culturally significant community location.
  • Host or support a native seed or plant sale, giveaway or swap.

Systems Change

  • Integrate monarch butterfly conservation into the city’s Park Master Plan, Sustainability Plan, Climate Resiliency Plan or other city plans.