The Sandhill Research and Education Center was established in 1926 for agricultural research in the primarily rural Columbia area. As the Columbia community has grown, the focus of the Sandhill Research and Education Center has evolved to meet the changing needs of the state. In 1999, the University's Board of Trustees approved the sale of approximately 300 acres of Sandhill's land. The Board approved using $8.5 million of the proceeds to construct new facilities and endow new programs at the center. In addition, up to $5 million was designated to endow community service scholarships to serve the citizens of South Carolina. One of the new missions that the Board authorized entailed the creation of the Clemson Institute for Economic and Community Development. With its extensive network, the Institute works help communities to utilize their resources more efficiently. Sandhill REC is also committed to natural resources and environmental stewardship. Partnerships with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, USDA-NRCS, University of South Carolina, and the faculty of Sandhill partner to conduct research and education programs that reach thousands each year. While the services of Sandhill have metamorphosed over the years, it still fulfills its original purpose of meeting the needs and serving the people of the surrounding communities, South Carolina and beyond.