Shem Creek - A seafood-lover's paradise!

“Clean abundant water is good for the environment and good for our economy. This legislation will allow SC to better plan for the needs of future industry as well as preserve our state’s outdoor heritage for our children and grandchildren.”
– Rep. David Hiott of Pickens County

Remember us talking about ‘water wars‘ popping up across the country, and indeed the world?

Well, the South Carolina House just passed a bill on Wednesday that will provide permits for withdrawing large amounts of water from our rivers and lakes – if it passes the Senate, and then the Governor signs it.

The bill would establish a permitting system for water withdrawals over three million gallons per month and lay out requirements to protect fish and wildlife and downstream users.

We can all thank Conservation Voters of South Carolina, American Rivers, the Coastal Conservation League and other partners, who worked more than four years to negotiate the provisions in the bill and help ensure it’s passage!

According to Heather Preston, director of the Water Quality Division for DHECs Bureau of Water, wetlands are vegetated aquatic ecosystems that include areas such as Carolina bays, marshes and swamps. Wetlands provide habitat for wildlife such as waterfowl, as well as for economically important fish and shellfish populations. Wetlands also provide safety and economic benefits to communities in the state by reducing flooding, cleaning and replenishing water supplies.

“Although wetlands serve as a vital link between land and water, they are historically misunderstood and under appreciated,” said Preston. “In the past, they were often used as dump sites and, unfortunately, appeared to be of value only when drained and developed.

“However, wetlands are starting to gain recognition as some of the most productive natural areas in the world,” Preston said. “DHEC is pleased to join Gov. Sanford and the citizens of South Carolina in celebrating May as Wetlands Month.”

“The recreational and aesthetic value of wetland areas also helps the states tourism industry”
– Preston said.

“The goal of this months celebration of South Carolina’s abundant wetlands, which coincides with American Wetlands Month, is to educate and involve the public in local activities,” she said. “DHEC has information emphasizing the importance of wetlands and wetland activities, which is available to civic groups, school groups and individuals.”

For more information about the state’s wetlands, visit DHEC’s Web site at: http://www.scdhec.gov/environment/water/401.htm.