Conservation // 2 min Read

Local Character: Jay Walea

Written by Palmetto Bluff

The fact that Jay Walea has never been featured as The Bluff’s “Local Character” until now is an absolute travesty because he is nothing if not a character. In fact, he probably best represents the local character of Palmetto Bluff, which means we most likely should replace his title as Conservancy Director to Mr. Palmetto Bluff.

As the voice of and champion for the members of Palmetto Bluff who cannot speak – the plants and animals – Jay has worked on the property for over 25 years, beginning his tenure as an intern during the Union Camp era. He now manages the Conservancy and understands better than anyone the lay of this sacred land, and he has made it his life’s work to ensure every decision on Palmetto Bluff is predicated on the needs of those inhabitants that can’t speak – the birds, the trees, the grass, the gators – everything. As far as we are concerned, Jay might as well be Dr. Dolittle’s son because he has gotten everything right, and we think the land and the wildlife would agree.

1. What is your idea of perfect happiness?

My idea of happiness is a healthy family and a blessed life.

2. What goes through your mind as your drive to work each morning?

I review everything that is planned for that day as well what could possibly go wrong, which is always backed up by a silent prayer that nothing will go wrong! Then I enjoy the sights while driving through the property.

3. And on the way home?

On the way home I usually think about what my daughters may have done that day, then reflect on what I did that day, and again review what is scheduled for tomorrow. I’m pretty boring.

4. What is your greatest extravagance?

My greatest extravagance is sitting next to a tree, fully camouflaged, calling in a turkey – for me or someone else – during a turkey hunt.

5. Movie that you would recommend to friends?

Mountain Man.

6. If there were a movie about your life, what would it be called and which actor would play you?

“Through the Eyes of a Guide,” and the actor who would play me would be Seth Rogen.

7. What do you consider your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement on Palmetto Bluff is helping the land transition into an environmentally- responsible development. I also take great pride in constantly educating developers to ensure that we remain good stewards of this beautiful place. And I’m proud of my transition into a manager position without going crazy!

8. What is your most marked characteristic?

I guess my bald head.

Conservation
Watching Birds, Supporting Science: FeederWatch at Palmetto Bluff

Here in the Lowcountry, the Conservancy brings FeederWatch to life with guided sessions at the Conservancy’s bird feeders. Education and Outreach Manager Aaron Palmieri leads these gatherings, teaching attendees how to identify wintering species, choose the ri...

Sep 2025

Culture
Chef Beth’s Lowcountry 7 Layer Dip with Pimento Cheese

Ingredients 2 cups cooked sea island red peas, crushed with a fork 1 recipe of pimiento cheese dip (recipe below), room temperature 2 cups crème fraiche 1 cup fire-roasted bell peppers, sliced into strips 1.5 cups grilled corn, husked an...

Sep 2025

Real Estate
The Benefits Of Buying A Newly-Built Home In Palmetto Bluff

At Palmetto Bluff, newly built homes are more than residences—they are carefully crafted retreats offering the best of Lowcountry living. Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Co. Agent, Amanda Cutrer, shares the benefits of buying “new” in the Bluff. Builder Support ...

Sep 2025

Conservation
Lowcountry Canvas

Visionary land planner Mark Permar reflects on Palmetto Bluff's rich history and its enduring connection to the land. With Anson on the horizon, the legacy of designing with nature lives on.How did you first get involved with Palmetto Bluff?  I believe it was ...

Sep 2025

Architecture & Design
Palmetto Bluff Homes with Guest Homes and Casitas

Explore Available Listings with Room For the Whole Family At Palmetto Bluff, life moves at the pace of the tides; slow enough to savor, yet rich with moments worth sharing. And when it comes to welcoming the people you love most, the right home makes all the ...

Aug 2025
2025 bluffton real estate

Real Estate
Real Estate Sales Report: Palmetto Bluff’s 2025 Midyear Update

Real Estate in Bluffton, SC: Trends, Updates, and Insights The first half of 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable for Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Company, with sales volume, transaction count, and market share setting a strong pace for the year ahead. As ...

Aug 2025

Architecture & Design
Your Complete Guide to Lowcountry Landscaping

Enhancing Coastal Living With Lowcountry Landscaping Trends The Lowcountry lies along the southeastern coast of the United States, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. From the charming streets of Charleston to the...

Aug 2025

Conservation
Loyalties Divided

By Katie Epps, Palmetto Bluff Archaeologist Standing on the bluff that rises above the May River, gaze across the vast expanse of marsh and sky. This is a landscape virtually untouched by time. Imagine this vista in the eighteenth century, in the throes ...

Aug 2025

Club Life
Back to School at the Bluff

The school year has officially begun, and the sound of school buses can be heard throughout the Lowcountry. As is true for much of South Carolina, Bluffton and the surrounding areas have experienced exceptional growth over the past 10 years, and so have the op...

Aug 2025

Club Life
Fall Into Fun: Upcoming Events at Palmetto Bluff

As summer gives way to fall, Palmetto Bluff welcomes the season with a thoughtfully curated lineup of events that reflect the spirit of community and the beauty of the Lowcountry. For Club members, these gatherings are more than celebrations—they’re a signatur...

Aug 2025

CURIOUS ABOUT LIFE AT THE BLUFF?

Sign up for our newsletter

LIVE
Community Villages
Experience
Palmetto Bluff Club
On The Water
The Arts Initiative
Events
Conserve
About Us