Why I Chose the ACE Basin as the Setting for my novel WHERE THE RIVERS MERGE

For twenty years I’ve written novels set against a threatened species, often in South Carolina.  As the realities of climate change become more pressing, I–and many of us –looked beyond individual species to consider the bigger picture—how our natural ecosystems are holding up in the face of a warming world. Where could I place such a complex, large vision?  My journey led me to a place of quiet, breathtaking significance: the ACE Basin.

So, what exactly is the ACE Basin?

The ACE Basin, named for the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Rivers, is one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the East Coast. Nestled in the southeastern corner of South Carolina, this expansive region stretches across four counties and represents a rare, thriving mosaic of ecosystems. From pine uplands and ancient hardwood forests to freshwater swamps, tidal creeks, salt marshes, and the remains of old rice fields, the ACE Basin is a rich tapestry of life and history.

These diverse habitats all converge in the St. Helena Sound, creating a crucial environment not only for countless plant and animal species but also for the health of the region’s waterways and coastlines. The basin is a sanctuary for migratory birds and native wildlife, many of which rely on the preserved wetlands and estuarine ecosystems for breeding, feeding, and shelter.

But the ACE Basin is more than just a natural wonder—it’s a place steeped in history. This land was once home to South Carolina’s iconic rice plantations. Though those days are long gone, the legacy lives on in the form of the old rice impoundments, which have transformed into vibrant wetland habitats, particularly vital for waterfowl and other migratory species.

Despite its importance, the ACE Basin remains relatively unknown on the national stage. Yet it stands as a powerful example of conservation in action. It was an opportunity for me to show you haw, through the collaborative efforts of private landowners, nonprofits, and government agencies, much of the basin has been protected from development, preserving not only the land but the cultural and ecological heritage of the Lowcountry. In a time when the natural world faces mounting threats, the ACE Basin is a reminder of what can be achieved when we choose to protect and honor our wild spaces. It’s a hidden gem of South Carolina—one that deserves recognition, respect, and continued preservation.

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