Nature

Spring at Kiawah River: An Earth Day Q&A with Chief Environmental Officer Jeff Snyder

In honor of Earth Day on April 22, we sat down with Chief Environmental Officer Jeff Snyder to explore what spring reveals about the health of the landscape at Kiawah River through the lens of one of its most important indicators: birds.

At Kiawah River, spring unfolds across a landscape shaped by water, wildlife, and a deep commitment to living in rhythm with the natural world. Set along the river with miles of trails, preserved green space, and expansive marsh views, it’s a place where seasonal changes aren’t just seen, they’re experienced. Birds, in particular, offer a clear window into how the ecosystem is functioning as everything comes alive.

We caught up with Jeff to talk about what he’s noticing right now and what this season is telling us about the health of the environment.

What are you noticing most in the landscape right now?

Right now, early perennials are coming up in the meadow and natural areas, signaling the start of the growing season across the property. Along the waterways and open spaces, tree swallows are moving through and arriving, adding to the sense of motion that defines this time of year. Bluebirds are already active as well, often seen perched on top of their nesting boxes, marking the beginning of nesting season.

This time of year feels especially active, what’s happening behind the scenes in the ecosystem that people might not realize?

While everything feels vibrant and full of life, there are also less visible challenges shaping the season. Critical drought conditions are happening now, and while wildlife adapts, it still affects far more than just the plants. These conditions can influence insect populations, food availability, and overall habitat health, creating a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem at a time that is especially important for growth and reproduction.

Why is birding such a meaningful way to experience Kiawah River?

Birding gets you outside and fully immersed in the landscape. It’s “baby time” of year, when birds are nesting and raising young, and many species are in their breeding colors. Migration is also bringing in birds you don’t see the rest of the year, making every walk or paddle feel a little different. It’s a great time to build on your life list while experiencing the land in a more intentional way.

What’s one moment or sight this season that never gets old for you?

Some moments never lose their impact. Seeing dolphins come into the creek is always a highlight, especially against the backdrop of the river and marsh. Overhead, nesting great blue herons and eagle chicks hopping around the rim of the nest offer a glimpse into the next generation of wildlife. And in the quieter corners of the landscape, the blooming of white indigo marks the steady progression of spring.

What do you hope people notice more of this time of year? Something that often goes overlooked?

It’s often the smaller details that tell the bigger story. The white indigo blooms are easy to miss but worth seeking out, along with the very first flowers of spring. Many of which are often dismissed as weeds in our yards, despite their role in supporting the ecosystem. Bluebirds returning to their boxes, the flash of a painted bunting, and the gradual greening of the landscape are all part of the season if you take the time to notice.

What can birds tell us about the health of an environment like this?

Birds tell us a lot about the health of our habitat and ecosystem. They rely on a balanced food pyramid, especially during nesting season, when they need a steady supply of caterpillars and other insects to feed their young. That all starts with healthy plant life, particularly native plants, which support those insect populations in a way non-native species often don’t. When landscapes are filled with plants that local insects and wildlife can’t effectively use, it disrupts that entire system and reduces the available food and habitat that birds depend on. Without healthy, supportive plant life, insect populations decline, and without that food source, birds can’t successfully raise the next generation. In that way, birds serve as one of the clearest indicators of how the environment is changing and responding over time.