Brosnan Forest Development Project
Dorchester County, SC
A Valuable Ecological Preserve
Brosnan Forest is a 14,400-acre ecological preserve near Dorchester, South Carolina, and a crucial habitat hub in a rapidly developing area. Owned and managed by Norfolk Southern Railway Company, it’s one of the most important longleaf pine habitats in the United States. A conservation easement protects 12,448 acres, which is home to the largest population of red-cockaded woodpeckers on private land.
Planning and Design for Guest Experience
Thomas & Hutton is collaborating with Brosnan Forest to create a master plan for the +/-2,000-acre core conference facility and guest activity zones. Services include reviewing existing operations and guest needs, conducting a multi-day design charrette with staff, and creating a master plan with key area enlargements. The goal is to improve efficiency while maintaining a high level of guest experience with a sustainable focus.
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The Brosnan Forest Trail Network
The team created a 3.3-mile trail network that winds through the old-growth longleaf ecosystem. This active trail system allows cabin guests to access additional areas for outdoor recreation and ecological experiences. The multi-modal network allows users to cycle, ride a golf cart, stroll, or use cardio exercise loops. Along the trails, interpretive signage and areas of interest—like the Bird Dog Cemetery, lake systems, and Red Cockaded Woodpecker habitats—educate visitors about the forest’s ecological importance and sustainable practices.
The Amphitheater and Bandshell
As part of the master plan’s Phase I implementation, the team developed a 130-seat amphitheater and bandshell/elevated stage to enhance the guests’ outdoor experience. The design, created in close coordination with in-house structural and civil engineering, included conceptual development, detailed hardscape and landscape construction documents, and concept development of the band shell enclosure/stage.
Thomas & Hutton Services
Thomas & Hutton offers a wide variety of services, including site analysis, master planning, concept development, detailed hardscape and landscape plans, landscape architecture, civil and structural engineering, construction administration, and construction observation.
