The Ashley River Needs Our Help

Proposed bills remove important protections for Ashley headwaters

Last week Senator Sean Bennett and Representatives Chris Murphy and Jenny Horne introduced legislation that would remove 90% of Dorchester County from the Coastal Zone. This would remove important protections from the Cypress and Wassamassaw Swamps — the headwaters of the Ashley River. These areas are critical for maintaining a healthy and vibrant Ashley River.

Please contact your senator and representative today. Ask them to protect the Ashley River by opposing bills S.0522 and H.3797.  

The Ashley River is the Charleston area’s only designated Scenic River. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources notes the Ashley River is “unparalleled in its unique combination of historical significance and natural resource value.” Removing Coastal Zone protections from its headwaters undermines downstream natural, cultural, and historical resources. Removing 90% of Dorchester County from the Coastal Zone also sets a dangerous precedent for other coastal zone counties. Charleston and Berkeley Counties could follow suit significantly reducing protections for the headwaters of the entire Charleston Harbor estuary.    

You can help protect the Ashley River. Contact your senator and representative today. Ask them oppose bills S.0522 and H.3797.

Thank you for helping to protect our local waterways!