March 1, 2022 • Volume 25, Issue 5 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com
INSIDE • Students get tips on bird-watching during field trip 12A • Reunion party emphasizes ‘state of mind’ is friendship 16A • Get ready for Aldi and slew of new businesses 24A • TCL serves Southern culinary culture 30A • Women might talk a lot, but they also listen well 49A
Oyster beds reopen after wastewater forces closure By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
Shellfish beds in Battery Creek and on portions of the Broad River are now open for harvesting. South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) reopened the beds in mid-February after they were closed Feb. 1 following discovery of wastewater flowing out of split pipe into the waterways. Local waterman Larry Toomer, owner of the Bluffton Oyster Company, said the affected area was not where he harvests his plump shellfish, but for others – including adventurous individuals who take their boats into local waterways in search of same – knowing when an area is open or closed can be healthy knowledge.
The closure came after Beaufort Jasper Water and Sewer Authority (BJWSA) reported a significant overflow of wastewater into Battery Creek, forcing immediate closure of shell fishing in the creek and portions of the Broad River, from the Broad River Bridge south to Archers Creek and east to Malecon Drive in Parris Island. The overflow was discovered after a BJWSA customer reported a strong sewer odor. When crews responded to the location, they discovered the overflow and began repairs. Laura Renwick, DHEC public information director, said that in this specific incident, BJWSA reported that an estimated 500,000 gallons of wastewater was released. “DHEC has established guidelines that
Please see OYSTERS on page 10A
COURTESY BEAUFORT JASPER WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY
A crew from Beaufort Jasper Water and Sewer Authority surveys damages in advance of repairing a corroded pipe that caused an overflow of sewage into Battery Creek.
Bluffton pool closed for possible roof safety issues Beaufort County announced Feb. 22 the immediate closure of Bluffton Pool located at 55 Pritchard St. in Bluffton, due to possible structural deterioration of the roof. “Public safety, the safety of our patrons and children is paramount, said Eric Greenway, county administrator. “A full inspection
and the scope of repairs will be determined in the coming weeks.” The County was notified late Tuesday that the possible damage could create a high probability that the roof structure would fail in the event of high winds or heavy rainfall. A second detailed assessment of the
Scamnoreforinfo
nnual A
7
April 11, 2022
Callawassie Island
For more info call 843-645-7774 or visit PortRoyalSoundFoundation.org/golf-tournament
Presenting Sponsor
Host
structure will be conducted to determine the extent of the damage. Beaufort County Parks and Recreation will work with private users and the Beaufort County School district to offer alternative locations for swim activities to take place.
The County staff will continue to gather all information and develop different plans for County Council to consider. For more information, including updates on the roof’s condition, potential repairs and other issues, visit bcscrec.com/updates and beaufortcountysc.gov.