An eight-year study funded by the Office of Naval Research and DNR Saltwater Recreation Funds created more than 77,000 video clips – with one included here – that were later used to identify and document the population of observed animals around an artificial reef.

The collaborative effort between SCDNR and the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography (SKIO) to monitor fish recruitment and use of the small artificial reef with a remote video camera system was initiated back in 1999.

Analysis of videos for 16 fish species or species groups revealed several noteworthy findings which you can read more about on the SCDNR website – including length of time on site for certain “residential” fish and migratory patterns for others.   Read more...

Season restrictions, signed into law last year, for the entire Santee Cooper system (lakes and rivers) for striped bass went into effect June 1. Anglers must not harvest or possess striped bass and must immediately release any stripers caught from June 1 – September 30.

This is considered a first step to combat the population decline of the striped bass fishery in the Santee Cooper system by reducing the amount of fish an angler can harvest, as well as increasing the minimum size limits.

The regulations also include (when applicable):

1. Reduction in creel limits from five to three
2. Points system: increase to 14 points for violation
3. Increase in minimum size limit from 21 inches to 26 inches
  Read more...

I just caught wind of this afternoon’s release of The 2009 study, “Underappreciated Assets: The Economic Impact of South Carolina’s Natural Resources” by USC, Moore School of Business professor Dr. Doug Woodward.

Interviews, photos, video: Dr. Doug Woodward, professor and researcher, University of South Carolina Moore School of Business; Natural Resources Society Board Members; South Carolina Natural Resources Director John Frampton and others. Digital images and video of South Carolinians using and enjoying the state’s natural resources will be available for attending media.

With Memorial Day weekend here again, the rite of passage into summer is upon us, and that means all the land-lubbers and puddle-jumpers will be out and about on the waterways. With good times often comes alcohol and a lack of safety, so SCDNR will be conducting annual boat inspections at public boat landings.

S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) boating safety and enforcement officers will perform a quick, but thorough, inspection for items such as required safety equipment and proper boat and motor registration. Those who are not in compliance with safety regulations or registration requirements will not be ticketed during the complimentary inspections. Instead, they will be given an opportunity to correct the problem before they launch their boat. DNR officers will also be available to answer questions and give boaters tips on how to stay safe on the water.   Read more...