Recreational Water Watch for Lake Hartwell

June 5 Update: SCDES continues to monitor the harmful algal bloom (HAB) on Lake Hartwell and record reports of observations. Based on the latest round of lake observations and water sampling, SCDES has updated the Recreational Watch for Lake Hartwell and removed certain areas of the lake, including: Tugaloo River lake arm upstream of I-85, Seneca River lake arm upstream of West Cherry Road, and Six and Twenty lake arm upstream of Centerville Road.

The Recreational Water Watch for the lake remains in effect for areas downstream of these road crossings, with the following recommendations: (1) avoid contact in areas where the HAB is present and (2) keep pets and animals from swimming in or drinking lake water where the HAB is observed.

Visit our Algal Bloom Monitoring Map to view the most recent locations where the HAB has been observed.

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Formerly a part of DHEC, SCDES is committed to preserving South Carolina’s air, land, water and coast through Science, Service and Sustainability.

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Public Notices

Beach Monitoring Season

SCDES samples water at more than 120 locations along South Carolina's coast from May 1 - October 1. If elevated levels of bacteria are detected, advisories are issued for that monitoring location. An advisory means that SCDES advises you NOT to swim in those areas. Advisories do not mean that the beach is closed. Wading, fishing, and shell collecting do not pose a risk.

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Ozone Monitoring Season

SCDES monitors ozone levels each year from March 1 through Oct. 31. Monitors help us understand the actual amount of ozone occurring at a particular location as well as the distribution of ozone concentrations across the state.

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WaterSC

WaterSC, led by the S.C. Department of Environmental Services (SCDES), works across state agencies and with key stakeholders to develop a state water plan that balances South Carolina's economic and environmental interests to ensure the long-term protection of the state’s water resources as demand increases from record-breaking economic development and population growth.

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Hurricane Season

Stay Ready: Hurricane season is here (June 1 - Nov. 30)! When hurricanes, floods, or other weather emergencies threaten our state, SCDES takes actions within the scope of its authority that help protect people, property and the environment.

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Open Burning

Learn more about open burning. Is it legal? What can I burn? How does it effect the environment? How do I report illegal open burning?

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SCDES is dedicated to helping people live healthy lives in healthy communities. With more than 3,800 employees in 100 offices across the state, SCDES has a diverse team of employees who are leaders in their fields and share a passion for making a difference.

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SCDES Issues Recreational HAB Watch for Broadway Lake in Anderson County

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  
June 12, 2025 

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) today issued a Recreational Watch for Broadway Lake in Anderson County after identifying the presence of a harmful algal bloom (HAB).  

On June 11, SCDES was notified of a potential HAB on Broadway Lake. Samples collected by staff indicated the presence of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) capable of producing cyanotoxins. Cyanotoxin analysis of the samples is underway with results expected next week.  

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Wednesday, June 18, 2025 6:00 pm -

Magic Oak Estates Public Meeting/Hearing

SCDES is seeking input on the proposed application from Magic Oaks, LLC to disturb land to facilitate construction of 27 single family residential lots and associated infrastructure. SCDES invites interested people to an informational session, public hearing, and/or to provide written comments. The informational public meeting will include:

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Tuesday, Jun 10, 2025

Prepared for the Season: SCDES Supports Hurricane Readiness Across South Carolina

As South Carolinians welcome the start of summer, it’s also time to turn our attention to hurricane preparedness. The Atlantic hurricane season officially began June 1 and continues through November 30.

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