conservation & stewardship
Our Commitment to Conservation
At Paddle Babes, we don’t just paddle—we also protect and preserve the waterways we love. Our mission extends beyond recreation to education, conservation, and community action, ensuring that Charleston’s marshes and marine ecosystems remain healthy for future generations.
W.A.V.E. Certified Business
Paddle Babes is a W.A.V.E. (Wildlife Awareness & Viewing Etiquette) Ambassador, committed to responsible wildlife viewing and marine conservation through education and ethical on-water practices.
Marsh Restoration Education Certified
Our founder, Lauren, is certified in Marsh Restoration Education by the SC Sea Grant Consortium and SCDNR, bringing expert knowledge to our volunteer initiatives.
Volunteer-Led Impact
We partner with local organizations for marsh restoration, marine conservation, and/or community cleanups twice a month.
VOLUNTEER with us
Paddle Babes actively works to restore Charleston’s marshes and protect its waterways. Whether it’s planting marsh grass, rebuilding oyster reefs, or removing marine debris, we believe in giving back to the places that give so much to us.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Want to join any of our bi-monthly volunteer events focused on marsh restoration and conservation? Come give back to our waterways and make new friends in the process:
✔️ Stay updated in our #volunteer-with-us Slack channel.
✔️ Sign up for our mailing list to hear first about upcoming opportunities.
🌱 Every small effort adds up—come be a part of the impact!
Community Conservation Leaders
We’re proud to support and work alongside local conservation groups leading the charge in environmental protection. Follow and support their efforts:
Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on protecting marine mammals (dolphins, whales, and seals) in South Carolina waters through research, education, and outreach.
Charleston Waterkeeper
Dedicated to protecting and restoring Charleston’s waterways for the community and future generations through water quality monitoring, advocacy, and education.
DNR SCORE
The South Carolina Oyster Recycling and Enhancement program focuses on oyster reef restoration and sustainable coastal ecosystems by recycling oyster shells and rebuilding reefs.
The Marsh Project
The M.A.R.S.H. Project is a grassroots and community-based program working to revitalize and advocate for the unique marshland ecosystems in urban Charleston, South Carolina.
Carolina Ocean Alliance
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit that advances community-driven solutions, develops young leaders, and fosters environmental stewardship to protect South Carolina’s coastal ecosystems.
Hope Summit
A solutions-centric celebration of community action, stewardship, and regenerative management in the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss.
Charleston Surfrider
Protecting Charleston’s beaches, waves, and waterways through grassroots action.
WHY IT MATTERS
Charleston’s marshes, estuaries, and marine habitats are vital for coastal resilience, biodiversity, and flood protection. Every paddle we take is a reminder that these ecosystems need our care and protection.
Join us in being a voice for the waterways.
Get involved, volunteer, and help make a lasting impact!
