INTERVIEW WITH GUINN WALLOVER
Guinn Wallover is the Water Quality & Environmental Program Specialist at Mount Pleasant Waterworks.
Why do you choose to support Charleston Waterkeeper? How did you get started with us?
We (Mount Pleasant Waterworks) share a mission with Charleston Waterkeeper to help protect clean water and public health in our community. Charleston Waterkeeper has been a leader in bringing people together to safeguard and protect our local waterways for today and the future. I first got started with Charleston Waterkeeper back in 2021, when I began working with Cheryl to co-teach Adopt-A-Stream saltwater volunteer certification workshops. It’s been so much fun working alongside Cheryl and Britney to teach and inspire volunteers in Charleston and Mount Pleasant.
What is your favorite way to enjoy clean water?
I love exploring the beach with my kids on a beach walk. Watching their excitement as they discover jellyfish, shark teeth, shorebirds, and everything else we find along the way makes those walks really special.
Do you have a favorite waterway in Charleston or a memorable experience on the water?
The Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge is one of my favorite places. I love its sense of remoteness, and it’s an incredible spot for birdwatching.
Why is environmental stewardship important to you and why should others become a waterway steward like you?
I am passionate about the connection we have between each other and the natural world. When we protect our environment, we protect our communities, too. I want my kids, and future generations in Charleston, to have the same opportunities, safe and clean waterways, and quality of life that we have today.
Tell us about your role in the septic repair financial assistance program supported by the Healthy Harbor Fund and how that program is going to support the local community.
Mount Pleasant Waterworks is so excited to partner with Charleston Waterkeeper on this initiative! I help coordinate MPW’s efforts for this project as we help repair or replace failing septic systems for low-income families in our service area. Failing septic systems threaten community and waterway health, and all families deserve access to adequate wastewater treatment for their homes. In areas where community sewer is not available, we’re grateful to be able to help those most in need protect their homes, their health, and their family’s future.
What’s something else you’re working on at Mount Pleasant Waterworks or a recent project that you’re excited to share?
We are passionate about being good stewards of both our water and our land. Over the past few years, we’ve been transforming portions of our properties and easements into native plant habitats. These projects give us opportunities to connect with volunteers around our mission while also building resilient landscapes that benefit the environment and our community’s well-being.
Tell us something interesting about yourself that we might not know!
I have been a lifelong runner, but this fall I’m training for my first triathlon! Wish me luck!
