A senate RESOLUTION

 

to congratulate the leaders, partners, and participants of the South Carolina 7 (SC7) Expedition as they celebrate the seventh year of the SC7 statewide expedition in 2026; to commend the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and Global Eco Adventures for their outstanding collaboration and commitment to conservation, education, outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, and public engagement in 2026, a year that also marks the two hundred fiftieth anniversary of the United States of America; and to recognize the leadership of Dr. Thomas S. Mullikin, director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, in advancing the mission and impact of SC7 across South CarolinA.

 

Whereas, the South Carolina 7 (SC7) Expedition is a collaborative partnership between the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, and Global Eco Adventures; and

 

Whereas, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources serves as a principal partner in the South Carolina 7 Expedition and has played a vital role in advancing the expedition's mission of conservation, environmental education, outdoor recreation, resiliency, and stewardship of South Carolina's natural resources; and

 

Whereas, under the leadership of Dr. Thomas S. Mullikin, director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the agency has strengthened public awareness of South Carolina's natural heritage and expanded opportunities for citizens and visitors to engage with the State's unparalleled natural resources through initiatives such as the South Carolina 7 Expedition; and

 

Whereas, the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, working in partnership with the Global Eco Adventures and other supporters, has helped connect communities across the State to South Carolina's seven natural wonders while promoting conservation, recreation, wildlife education, and environmental stewardship; and

 

Whereas, the mission of the South Carolina 7 is to promote conservation, education, and partnerships by connecting and engaging individuals to participate in outdoor activities and to experience the diverse geographic regions of the Palmetto State while reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship and appreciation for South Carolina's rich natural and cultural heritage; and

 

Whereas, each year, adventurers, nature lovers, and conservationists come together to hike, paddle, and discover seven iconic destinations that showcase South Carolina's incredible beauty, known as the seven natural wonders of South Carolina; and

 

Whereas, 2026 marks the seventh year of the South Carolina 7 Expedition, which occurs throughout the month of July across the State from the mountains to the coast; and

 

Whereas, in recognition of the two hundred fiftieth anniversary of the United States, the South Carolina 7 Expedition will showcase locations of exceptional historical and natural significance throughout South Carolina; and

 

Whereas, the success of the South Carolina 7 Expedition has been made possible through the leadership of the director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and founder and chairman emeritus of Global Eco Adventures, Dr. Thomas S. Mullikin; president of the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, Michelle McCollum; president of Global Eco Adventures, Thomas Mullikin, Jr.; the dedicated professionals of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources; and the many sponsors, volunteers, and partners who support this statewide initiative; and

 

Whereas, through its commitment to conservation, education, outdoor recreation, and public engagement, the South Carolina 7 Expedition has become a model for inspiring citizens to appreciate, protect, and preserve South Carolina's natural resources and historic treasures for future generations.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, congratulate the leaders, partners, and participants of the South Carolina 7 (SC7) Expedition as they celebrate the seventh year of the SC7 statewide expedition in 2026; commend the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and Global Eco Adventures for their outstanding collaboration and commitment to conservation, education, outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, and public engagement in 2026, a year that also marks the two hundred fiftieth anniversary of the United States of America; and recognize the leadership of Dr. Thomas S. Mullikin, director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, in advancing the mission and impact of SC7 across South Carolina.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Dr. Thomas S. Mullikin; the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor; and Global Eco Adventures.

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