MANCHESTER STATE FOREST
Manchester State Forest, in Sumter and Clarendon Counties, consists of approximately 25,000 acres of mixed pine and hardwood species native to the midlands of South Carolina. Soil type is light sand, interspersed with swamps and bays.
The forest is managed to yield a variety of forest products, from pulpwood and sawtimber to poles and pine straw. Stands of non-native slash pine, planted in the 1960s, are being gradually harvested and replaced with longleaf pine. In 1989 the forest was severely damaged by Hurricane Hugo. Sixty-five percent of the timber base was destroyed. Since then hundreds of acres have been salvaged and replanted.
Manchester State Forest practices principles of high quality multiple-use and sustained-yield forest management.
Multiple use management includes enhancing timber production, fish and wildlife habitat, air and water quality, soil conservation, scenic beauty, scientific research, and recreational opportunities. It does not mean that all uses must coexist at the same time. Depending on the circumstances on different parts of the forest, one use might be dominant while other uses are subordinated.
Sustained yield means assuring that the renewable resources of the forest will always be available without impairing the productivity of the land.
Operating funds for the forest, as well as a portion of salaries, are generated from the sale of timber products, land leases, Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Permits, and recreational use permits. Twenty-five percent of the Forest's gross income is paid to Sumter County for use in the local school district.
1. Native American Presence: The land on which Manchester State Forest is located was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Catawba and Santee tribes. These tribes used the forest for hunting, gathering resources, and as a place of spiritual significance.
2. Early European Settlement: In the early 18th century, European settlers arrived in the area. They began clearing the land for agriculture and established plantations. The namesake of the forest, Manchester, was an early plantation in the region.
3. Revolutionary War: During the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783), the forest area witnessed several skirmishes and battles. The region's strategic location along important waterways made it a contested area between British and Patriot forces.
4. Development of Logging Industry: In the late 19th century, logging became a prominent industry in the area. Large-scale timber operations led to significant deforestation within the forest.
5. Creation of Manchester State Forest: In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, the U.S. government initiated several programs aimed at providing employment opportunities and conservation efforts. One such program, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), worked to restore degraded lands and establish state forests. Manchester State Forest was established in 1936 as part of this initiative.
6. Conservation and Recreation Efforts: In the following decades, the South Carolina Forestry Commission actively managed Manchester State Forest. They focused on reforestation efforts, timber management, and providing recreational opportunities for the public. Today, the forest covers around 28,676 acres and is cherished as a natural haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Wildlife Habitat and Conservation: Manchester State Forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, turkey, foxes, snakes, and various bird species. Efforts have been made to preserve and enhance wildlife habitats within the forest.
8. Modern-Day Use: Today, Manchester State Forest serves as a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. The forest offers several trails, picnic areas, and campsites for visitors to enjoy.