Greetings from Myrtle Beach, SC. We find ourselves residing in close proximity to multiple diminishing natural beauties across our city - while this petition once served to protect the 6.5 acre woodland on Pridgen Road (with victory!) we are now fighting to protect the remaining patches of forests we have. Everyday, we bear witness to the adverse effects the relentless citywide developments bring to our beloved home. Our beaches, once clear and serene, now serve as makeshift shelters for displaced wildlife; crime rates and traffic incidents have significantly increased; our education system bears the burden of overcrowded classes. These threatened woodlands encapsulate more than trees and shrubs; they are home to a myriad of wildlife that includes state endangered birds of prey. These forests are also a barrier that protects us from worsening environmental and social issues. 

Development of these remaining green spaces, while may seem profitable short-term, will have long-term repercussions for our community and the biodiversity within. Cases from around the country show that destruction of such habitats leads to more than 70% loss of local wildlife over a decade (source: Center for Urban Ecology). Furthermore, according to research by the Department of Law Enforcement, urban expansion correlates with a sharp increase in crime rates. Education institutions also struggle to keep up with the rising population that comes with rapid development and contributes to a decline in the quality of education.

Preserving our forests is not just essential for maintaining local flora and fauna, but is crucial to stem the tide of increasing crime rates, traffic accidents and overwhelmed educational institutions. To prevent any irreparable damage to Myrtle Beach and its residents, we call on the relevant authorities to reconsider plans for any developmental projects on our remaining green spaces. We urge you to stand with us, to value the serenity, safety, and natural beauty of our city, as Myrtle Beach was never meant to be a concrete jungle. Please sign this petition and help us in making our city a place we can continue to be proud of calling our home.