Letter: A ‘Blue Ribbon’ moment for SC beaches

My family spends as much time as we can every summer on the beach at Edisto Island. I have seen the sand there come and go. Periodic renourishment over the years let us continue to enjoy the beach we love, but it was not a permanent solution.

This year, for the first time in decades, I feel optimistic about the future of our beaches. The Shoreline Management Bill (S. 139) creates a new baseline that will prevent future development from creeping ever-closer to the ocean. This is the most significant new protection for our beaches since the passage of the Beachfront Management Act in 1988. It warrants celebration.

In 2010, I was cautious but positive when asked to serve on the state’s Blue Ribbon Committee on Shoreline Management. Over the next several months, I dug into the strong set of recommendations from the previous Shoreline Change Advisory Committee.

What we found was troubling — but hopeful. The committee heard of one property in Folly Beach who had been built on renourished sands. Already, the ocean again was lapping at its base. We saw the need for policy to protect beaches, wildlife and taxpayers.

I commend your newspaper for the excellent editorial recognizing the important role that state Rep. Bill Herbkersman of Bluffton played in the passage of this bill.

We are fortunate in South Carolina to have talented scientists and committed residents who care about our beaches. I hope our next step forward as a state will include careful consideration of the committee’s other 12 suggestions.

This story was originally published June 24, 2016 at 4:36 PM with the headline "Letter: A ‘Blue Ribbon’ moment for SC beaches."