Wounded Nature

Wounded Nature is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by veterans that assembles volunteer boaters and veterans to remove debris from hard-to-reach coastal areas in South Carolina. The group operates out of Charleston, SC, and works with federal, state, and local agencies to clean tidal marshes, waterways, and wetlands. Their mission includes removing abandoned vessels, illegal markers, and orphaned crab traps while laying oyster beds to restore marine habitats.

The organization primarily serves critical wildlife areas designated by the Fish and Wildlife Service and Department of Natural Resources, including remote locations like Cedar Island, Drum Island, and Cape Romain. They target neglected tidal marshes and rural coastal zones that are difficult to access, focusing on debris that threatens fragile ecosystems. Both veteran and non-veteran volunteers participate in their cleanup operations along South Carolina's coastlines.

Volunteers can join by attending monthly gatherings held on the first Wednesday of every month at the Bridge Bar above the Charleston Harbor Fish House restaurant. The meet-up takes place from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm on the upper deck overlooking the harbor at the Charleston Harbor Resort. Families are welcome to these informal get-togethers where they can meet the team and learn more about upcoming cleanup events.

The organization has removed 14,200 discarded glass bottles, 287 tires, and over 300 abandoned boats from the region. They have also laid 2,821 oyster beds and removed 52 illegal markers and moorings to restore coastal ecosystems. These specific numbers highlight their tangible impact on cleaning up hard-to-reach areas.

A single 12-foot piece of old treated wood can contain enough arsenic and creosote to kill more than 100 adults, which is why they prioritize removing such debris. They also address heavy debris that is hard to transport and requires watercraft to stage a rural cleanup. This specific detail explains why their approach to remote areas is unique and necessary.

The organization operates with minimum overhead, ensuring that funds raised go directly to mission operations rather than administrative costs. They accept donations, memberships, sponsorships, and grants to finance their work. Every dollar contributed helps remove trash from critical wildlife habitats.

The team typically responds to reports and inquiries within two business days. They coordinate with the SCDNR and the Coast Guard when reporting derelict vessels. This quick response time ensures that issues are addressed promptly.

Some reviewers on Trustburn praise the team for their professionalism, dedication, and knowledge. They note that the organization goes above and beyond to ensure satisfaction and provides helpful solutions. Many users find the team extremely knowledgeable and the process effortless.

The Trustburn rating is 4 out of 5 stars based on 11 reviews, with the most recent feedback dating back to November 2023. The reviews consistently highlight the organization's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. While most are positive, the rating split reflects a generally high level of satisfaction among supporters.

ABC News 4 covered the removal of nine boats at Johns Island Landing in July 2026, noting that the derelict vessel backlog is rapidly dwindling. The Post and Courier also reported on this event, emphasizing the collaboration between SCDNR and Wounded Nature. These news sources confirm the organization's active role in cleaning up coastal waterways.

The organization uses Nexvelo for its website and operations technology to manage its online presence and communications. This platform supports their ability to coordinate volunteers and track accomplishments efficiently. Their digital infrastructure helps them maintain a strong online footprint for a national nonprofit.

The organization operates exclusively in South Carolina, focusing on coastal and tidal waters across the state. Their service area includes specific islands and wetlands that require specialized equipment and expertise. This geographic focus allows them to tailor their cleanup efforts to the unique needs of each location.

The process involves identifying critical wildlife areas, assembling volunteer boaters and veterans, and removing debris using watercraft. They then lay oyster beds to restore marine habitats and report their accomplishments. This step-by-step approach ensures a comprehensive cleanup of hard-to-reach coastal zones.