In 1979, Ted Turner bought a 4,680-acre South Carolina barrier island to prevent development

{}Ted Turner sold St Phillips Island to the South Carolina government for $4.9 million, much lower than its appraised value. The island will become part of South Carolina's state park system, focusing on ecosystem protection. Public access will be limited, allowing for educational programs and eco-tourism opportunities. Turner initially acquired the island in 1979 to prevent commercial development and has maintained its natural state.