As more people and businesses move to South Carolina's coast, more natural lands are being converted to urban uses. Scientists at the Baruch Institute have studied the coastal environment for nearly 40 years, including the environmental impact of changing land-use patterns, coastal natural resource conservation, forestry, water quality and watershed management.

The research provides information to help public policy decision-makers manage growth issues so the state's coastal environment can be preserved for future generations. The Clemson scientists at Baruch have memoranda of understanding with public and private organizations that grants access to more than 80,000 acres of coastal lands for collaborative research and education programs.