From Post & Courier newspaper’s facebook page: Abandoned boats are a growing problem in Charleston’s rivers, creeks and waterways. A local nonprofit teamed up with county and state agencies to remove and destroy two from the Stono River.
Harbor clearance plays a critical role in maintaining the safety, efficiency, and ecological balance of maritime environments. Whether following natural disasters, vessel groundings, or routine dredging operations, harbor clearance ensures that ports and shipping lanes remain navigable and free from hazardous debris.
Modern clearance operations use a blend of traditional diving techniques and advanced technologies such as sonar mapping, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and specialized salvage equipment. These tools allow teams to quickly assess underwater obstructions, prioritize removal efforts, and minimize disruptions to port operations. Precision is crucial—not only for the restoration of maritime traffic but also for protecting delicate marine ecosystems.
Strategically, harbor clearance is essential to global trade and national security. Blocked ports can cause significant economic losses, delay critical supplies, and pose threats to environmental health if hazardous materials are involved. As such, clearance operations often align closely with government compliance standards, environmental protection regulations, and maritime safety protocols.
Today’s harbor clearance teams are multidisciplinary, combining expertise in commercial diving, engineering, environmental science, and logistics management. Innovations in salvage technology, such as high-capacity lift bags and hybrid-powered underwater vehicles, are enhancing capabilities and reducing operational footprints.
With increasing climate risks—such as stronger storms and rising sea levels—harbor clearance efforts are becoming more frequent and complex. Forward-thinking strategies that integrate resilience planning and sustainable practices are critical to ensure the longevity and safety of the world’s maritime infrastructure.
Derelict boats are an ongoing issue in almost all states. Below is a link to an ABC News article on how South Carolina targets derelict boats with new legislation to protect waterways
Tiny grain, big impact. Join us on March 15 to learn just how important rice was in Lowcountry history – and see its influence carved into the landscape we know today as Caw Caw Interpretive Center.
Dive In!
Got a kid who’d love to spend the summer in the pool? Registration for our 2025 swim team is officially open! The West County Wahoos offer a great opportunity for kids and teens to strengthen their skills in the water while learning sportsmanship and teamwork.
Save the Date
On April 12, Louisiana comes to the Lowcountry! Get your tickets today for the Cajun Festival, where you can celebrate Zydeco music and chow down on étouffée, jambalaya, crawfish, and other Creole and Cajun delicacies. Bring your appetite and your dancing shoes!
Let’s Dance
Time to brush up on those dance moves, y’all! The new season of Dancing on the Cooper kicks off in three weeks. The Mount Pleasant Pier transforms into a dance floor under the stars, where local bands and the river breeze set the scene for unforgettable Friday nights. Get your tickets today.
Parks Reopening After Winter Weather With the exception of those noted below, all Charleston County Parks and facilities will open at 12 p.m. on Sunday, January 26.
The following will remain closed on Sunday due to ice accumulation:
– Palmetto Islands County Park – Mount Pleasant Pier – McLeod Plantation Historic Site – SK8 Charleston – The Outdoor Zone (Climbing Wall & Disc Golf Course) at James Island County Park
adrotate banner=’477′] Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, sits on the Mount Pleasant side of Charleston Harbor, hard by Patriots Point between Horse Reach’s flashing buoys #34 and #36.
Run with purpose while taking in beautiful ocean views! Secure your spot in the Save the Light Half-Marathon and 5K—an exhilarating race that combines the thrill of running with the mission of preserving the Morris Island Lighthouse.
This Safety Zone is just north of the AICW’s east-west path through Charleston Harbor.
Marine Safety Information Bulletin U.S. Coast Guard MSIB Number: 01-25 Sector Charleston Date: January 16, 2025 Waterways Management Division 1050 Register Street North Charleston, SC 29405 E-Mail: CharlestonWaterways@uscg.mil
SECURITY ZONE – Charleston Harbor
Charleston, SC
On Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m., a security zone will be in effect for certain waters of the Cooper River adjacent to the International African American Museum in Charleston, SC. The security zone will encompass all waters within an area approximately 680 yards long and 500 yards wide. No vessels or persons are permitted within the security zone unless authorized by official patrol. Official patrol may be contacted via VHF radio channel 16. Mariners are encouraged to plan transits accordingly to avoid unnecessary disruptions.
This MSIB can be viewed at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/charleston. For questions or concerns regarding this MSIB, please contact the Sector Charleston 24-hour Command Center at (843) 740-7050.
adrotate banner=’477′] Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, sits on the Mount Pleasant side of Charleston Harbor, hard by Patriots Point between Horse Reach’s flashing buoys #34 and #36.
Looking plans this weekend?
Check out Oysters on the Point with Live Music from Thomas Champagne & Friends from 2pm – 6pm THIS Saturday!
As we say goodbye to 2024 and look ahead to a new year, we want to thank you for your support of our mission to inspire the people of Charleston to connect with their parks and together create stunning public spaces and a strong community. Whether you have donated, attended one of our events, volunteered your time or simply enjoyed one of our parks, we are grateful to you.
We hope to continue to inspire you over the next year with beautiful parks, engaging and educational programming, and opportunities to connect with and give back to your community through volunteering your time.
There are a few hours left to donate in 2024 and we hope you will consider supporting us. Click the button below, text ‘conservancyparks’ to 50155, or visit our website to explore other ways to donate.
Thank you, Happy New Year, and we’ll see you in the parks!
The Charleston Parks Conservancy Staff
Join Us for Upcoming Events
JANUARY
Saturday, January 11 Native Tree Giveaway | free
Saturday, January 18 Early Morning Bird Walk | free
Sunday, April 27 Picnic for the Parks | ticketed fundraiser
Saturday, November 8 Party for the Parks | ticketed fundraiser
Friday, December 5 Light the Lake | free
ABOUT THE CONSERVANCY
The Charleston Parks Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring the people of Charleston to connect with their parks and create stunning public places and a strong community. The Conservancy secures 90% of the funding required to maintain 26 parks, gardens and trails across the city through private and corporate donations, while the City of Charleston covers 10% of costs. The Conservancy team provides year-round park care, with a focus on strategic seasonal plantings, major park revitalizations, and sustainable maintenance. In 2024 alone, the organization planted over 46,000 plants and 1,000 trees, donated two tons of fresh produce and 1,200 fresh flower bouquets grown in its parks and gardens, and advocated for the vital role of parks in urban life. Through 180 hours annually of free programming including popular events like the Teddy Bear Picnic, the Conservancy cultivates vibrant, welcoming green spaces that serve as hubs for recreation, relaxation, and community connection.Read More.
When parks thrive, people thrive. Donate today to make an impact in our community.
Harbour Town Yacht Basin, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is ready for your reservation with newly renovated docks, upgraded electrical service and onSpot WiFi, also a CRUISERS NET SPONSOR. And, as always, numerous activities at the Sea Pines Resort are offered for your enjoyment, as you will see in the Event Schedule below. Hilton Head Island is absolutely marvelous any time of year.
adrotate banner=’477′] Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, sits on the Mount Pleasant side of Charleston Harbor, hard by Patriots Point between Horse Reach’s flashing buoys #34 and #36.
From our busy iconic parks to hidden neighborhood gems, your donation has a lasting impact on how Charleston thrives. Thanks to you, we are working to transform Charleston’s parks and green spaces into even more thriving, welcoming spaces.
Seasonal displays at Rose Pavilion, Marion Square, Hazel Parker and Tiedemann Nature Center have brought vibrant color making these beloved parks even more inviting year-round.
The revitalization of Vangie Rainsford Park includedclearing out overgrown plants and the addition of shade-loving annuals and perennials.
Mitigating flood waters with the installation of bioswales at Tiedemann Park & Nature Center.
Supporting the urban eco-corridor with the installation of a pollinator habitat at Corrine Jones Park & Community Garden.
The revitalization of Wragg Square brought new life to this historic park, with reimagined gardens and restored pathways, creating a welcoming space for community events.
Expanding our donation programs through the installation of the Mulberry Park Food Forest & the cut flower garden at Magnolia Community Garden.
We’re Not Stopping
In 2025, we’re taking on even bigger projects like the revitalization of 3 acres of gardens at Colonial Lake, which is underway and will be completed next year. Allan Park will be getting a refresh and we are thrilled to expand our urban garden program to Shaw Community Center with the installation of fruit trees and teaching vegetable beds.
With 90% of the Conservancy’s annual funding relying on the generosity of donors like you – your continued support is critical to allowing these projects to come to fruition. Consider a donation today to help keep Charleston’s parks blooming.
The Charleston Parks Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring the people of Charleston to connect with their parks and create stunning public places and a strong community. The Conservancy secures 90% of the funding required to maintain 26 parks across the city through private and corporate donations, while the City of Charleston covers 10% of costs. The Conservancy team provides year-round park care, with a focus on strategic seasonal plantings, major park revitalizations, and sustainable maintenance. In 2024 alone, the organization planted over 46,000 plants and 1,000 trees, donated two tons of fresh produce and 1,200 fresh flower bouquets grown in its parks and gardens, and advocated for the vital role of parks in urban life. Through 180 hours annually of free programming including popular events like the Teddy Bear Picnic, the Conservancy cultivates vibrant, welcoming green spaces that serve as hubs for recreation, relaxation, and community connection.Read More.
When parks thrive, people thrive. Donate today to make an impact in our community.
Comments from Cruisers (2)
Harbor clearance plays a critical role in maintaining the safety, efficiency, and ecological balance of maritime environments. Whether following natural disasters, vessel groundings, or routine dredging operations, harbor clearance ensures that ports and shipping lanes remain navigable and free from hazardous debris.
Modern clearance operations use a blend of traditional diving techniques and advanced technologies such as sonar mapping, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and specialized salvage equipment. These tools allow teams to quickly assess underwater obstructions, prioritize removal efforts, and minimize disruptions to port operations. Precision is crucial—not only for the restoration of maritime traffic but also for protecting delicate marine ecosystems.
Strategically, harbor clearance is essential to global trade and national security. Blocked ports can cause significant economic losses, delay critical supplies, and pose threats to environmental health if hazardous materials are involved. As such, clearance operations often align closely with government compliance standards, environmental protection regulations, and maritime safety protocols.
Today’s harbor clearance teams are multidisciplinary, combining expertise in commercial diving, engineering, environmental science, and logistics management. Innovations in salvage technology, such as high-capacity lift bags and hybrid-powered underwater vehicles, are enhancing capabilities and reducing operational footprints.
With increasing climate risks—such as stronger storms and rising sea levels—harbor clearance efforts are becoming more frequent and complex. Forward-thinking strategies that integrate resilience planning and sustainable practices are critical to ensure the longevity and safety of the world’s maritime infrastructure.
Source: https://resolvemarine.com/services-capabilities/government-relations
Alas, blocked by a paywall.