Story perspectives

Congaree National Park Battles Pollution and Invasive Pigs

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Congaree National Park faces threats from pollution from nearby factories and invasive non-native feral pigs.
The park was established in 1976 and designated a national park in 2003.
Industrial discharges include forever chemicals from Shaw Industries, contributing to local pollution.
Research presented at a conference notes historical logging and cypress trees estimated over 800 years old.
Federal efforts are underway to control the feral hog population and protect the ecosystem.

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Story summary

Congaree National Park faces threats from pollution from nearby factories and invasive non-native feral pigs.
The park was established in 1976 and designated a national park in 2003.
Industrial discharges include forever chemicals from Shaw Industries, contributing to local pollution.
Research presented at a conference notes historical logging and cypress trees estimated over 800 years old.
Federal efforts are underway to control the feral hog population and protect the ecosystem.