The Savannah River Ecology Laboratory Conference Center is a 5,000-square-foot multi-purpose facility located in a natural wooded area on the U.S. Department of Energy's Savannah River Site (SRS) near Aiken, S.C. The U.S. Department of Energy permitted the University of Georgia Research Foundation (UGARF) to use 68 acres on the Savannah River Site for the facility. UGARF, which operates SREL, owns the building, which opened in February 1995.

Location

Because the Conference Center site is located about a mile off Highway 278 in south Aiken County, it is convenient to Aiken, S.C., about 15 minutes away, and Augusta, Ga., about 25 minutes away.

From downtown Augusta, GA, take Highway 28 east to Beech Island, S.C. Then take U.S. Highway 278 east (Sand Bar Ferry Road) to New Ellenton, S.C. Intersect Highway 19. Continue east on Highway 278 about 3.5 miles. Turn left at the Conference Center sign. Then follow the gravel road and signs to the building. (click here for a PDF map)

From Aiken, SC, take Highway 19 south (Whiskey Road) to New Ellenton, S.C. Then turn left (east) on U.S. Highway 278. Go about 3.5 miles. Turn left at the Conference Center sign. Then follow the gravel road and signs to the building. (click here for a PDF map)

Programs

Among SREL-sponsored environmental education programs held at the Conference Center are  science teacher workshops and a day camp program called "Ecologist for a Day." These programs include outdoor activities in the wooded area surrounding the Conference Center. The facility is adjacent to an archaeological area and Upper Three Runs Creek, a DOE-designated research Set-Aside Area. These adjacent areas enhance educational opportunities for participants in environmental programs at the Conference Center.

Amenities

The 5,000-square-foot building, designed by Hinman Architectural Group of Augusta, Ga., includes a large conference room, small conference room, two offices, a kitchen suitable for large gatherings, a display area and restroom facilities. The large conference room accommodates approximately 150 people.

Booking

Reservations are made by calling facility coordinator Sean Poppy at (803)725-7588 weekdays. A deposit and rental fee are required.  Catering is the responsibility of the client (DOE or non-DOE). Cancellation must be made 24 hours in advance to avoid charges. The facility is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Evening and weekend bookings are made by special arrangement with the facility coordinator.

Telephone