quadruple the funds to S.C. Conservation Land Bank.

Looking to protect the state’s rural scenery from development, Gov. Mark Sanford said Monday he intends to more than quadruple the funds directed to the S.C. Conservation Land Bank.

The bank purchases land or conservation easements. Last year, the state funneled $15 million to the bank. This year, Sanford wants to provide $65 million.

But a tight state budget is likely to give rise to suggestions for other ways to spend the money. Rep. Annette Young, R-Summerville, said roadway funding should take priority, for example.

“I think we’re going to be short (in the budget), so (an additional) $50 million is a bit much for this bank,” said Young, vice chairwoman of the House Ways and Means committee. “I support the conservation bank, but we have other needs.”

The additional funding, Sanford said, would be a one-year increase only and that an anticipated $230 million in new state revenues would cover the cost.

“With the growth that’s going to be coming our way in the next 10 years, now is the time to make sure our natural resources are protected,” said Sanford, a Sullivan’s Island Republican.

By 2020, the Palmetto State’s population could increase by 1 million, the governor said, and the state already converts nearly 200 acres of timber and agricultural land daily for urban and suburban uses.

“A key part of our quality of life and our competitive advantage with respect to other states lies in preserving the way South Carolina looks and feels as a state,” Sanford said.

Since first receiving funds in 2004, the bank has spent $70.74 million to preserve 134,171 acres of land, including forests, wetlands, farmland, historical land and urban parks.

The program is entirely voluntary. Landowners who wish to participate may sell land or enter into a binding conservation easement that retains the land’s original purpose.