AGP Executive Report

Fall foliage in the Upstate: Clemson’s fall color report says this could be a banner season, with El Niño bringing warm, moist weather that may delay leaf change and make more trees “fire off” at once. Weekend rain + flood risk: South Carolina is in for hit-or-miss showers and thunderstorms, with a level 2/4 flash-flood risk in parts of the Midlands and totals of 1–3 inches possible in pockets. Tropical moisture watch: Forecasters are tracking a Gulf low with a growing chance of tropical development, and models suggest heavy rain could reach the Carolinas next weekend. Coastal wildlife: NOAA approved a revised South Carolina DNR plan for a 14-day recreational red snapper season in federal waters (Oct. 9–22), letting anglers help collect data. Local roads: SCDOT will temporarily close Fairmont Road at Leesburg Road in Richland County Oct. 9–12 for intersection safety work.

Climate & Courts: A U.S. Supreme Court case (Suncor v. Boulder County) spotlights how private, contingency-fee law firms are steering climate-change lawsuits against oil companies—raising questions about who pays, who profits, and how science is presented in court. Flood Watch: Heavy rain is ramping up across the South, with a Level 2 flash-flood risk stretching toward the Carolinas; South Carolina could see widespread 2–3 inches, with localized higher totals possible. Local Weather: Greenville’s weekend turns cloudy and damp with showers and possible thunderstorms, plus patchy fog that could linger into Monday morning before drier, sunnier conditions return. Coastal & Wildlife: NOAA approved South Carolina DNR’s revised exempted fishing permit for a 14-day federal recreational red snapper season (Oct. 9–22), letting anglers help gather data for future management. Community & Environment: A public information session is set on proposed changes to coastal dock regulations, a direct hit on how South Carolina protects shorelines and waterways.

Ocean Climate Research: Scientists in the Faroe Islands are studying the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a key ocean “conveyor” that can shift heat and rainfall patterns—research that matters for South Carolina’s flood risk and coastal future. Coastal Policy: The S.C. Department of Environmental Services is holding a public information session on proposed changes to coastal dock regulations, with a formal hearing set for Oct. 27 in Columbia. Fisheries Management: NOAA approved South Carolina’s revised exempted fishing permit for a 14-day recreational red snapper season in federal waters (Oct. 9–22), with a one-fish-per-day limit and a 20-inch minimum size. Marine Cleanup: Wounded Nature Working Veterans says South Carolina has removed 510 abandoned boats from coastal waters, aiming to reduce marine contamination from degrading fiberglass. Public Safety/Weather: Dense fog contributed to a major I-95 pileup over Lake Marion that shut down southbound lanes for about 17 hours, with lanes reopening early Friday. Wildlife Health: A new case of flesh-eating vibrio Vulnificus was reported in a child in Clay County, prompting renewed health warnings.

Coastal Policy Update: South Carolina’s Bureau of Coastal Management is holding a public information session on proposed changes to coastal dock regulations in North Charleston on Oct. 13, with a formal public hearing set for Oct. 27 in Columbia—aimed at addressing growing dock impacts on navigation and shoreline access. Wildlife & Habitat: A video from Hilton Head shows an eastern diamondback rattlesnake swimming across a backyard pool and moving toward nearby woods, a reminder that wildlife habitat and human spaces overlap. Species Health Watch: New reporting on ospreys finds breeding success drops in saltwater systems, with freshwater areas producing more young per pair—highlighting how local conditions can shape coastal wildlife outcomes. Public Safety: Greer firefighters battled a major blaze at M&M Waste Oil Service, prompting a Wade Hampton Boulevard closure and heavy smoke. Weather & Risk: Dense fog contributed to a massive I-95 Lake Marion pileup that shut down southbound lanes before reopening the next morning.

Wildlife & Habitat: A video from Hilton Head shows an eastern diamondback rattlesnake swimming across a backyard pool, a reminder that built spaces can quickly overlap with wildlife habitat. Endangered Species & Local Planning: Charleston County is accelerating tree-clearing for a Maybank Highway exit lane on Johns Island to meet federal northern long-eared bat rules, with work timed around seasonal restrictions. Coastal Wildlife Health: A new look at osprey breeding suggests reproductive trouble in saltier waters, with freshwater areas producing more young per pair than marine systems. Pollution & Industry Recycling: Rhode Island’s WAVES effort recycles fiberglass boat hulls by sending fiber to cement kilns, cutting landfill waste and reducing demand for raw materials—South Carolina is part of the supply chain. Chemicals at SC Solar Plant: Fort Mill residents and school leaders are urging the governor to stop Silfab Solar from restarting chemical commissioning after prior leaks near schools. Data Centers & Energy Pressure: A new coalition backed by major tech firms and unions plans to push back against local data center moratoriums, including in South Carolina. Public Safety Weather: Storms and rain could disrupt South Carolina and Georgia college football games Saturday, with lightning a key concern.

Solar Safety Push: Fort Mill residents, school leaders, and state lawmakers are urging Gov. Henry McMaster to stop Silfab Solar from restarting chemical commissioning at its plant after March leaks forced a nearby elementary school closure; Rep. David Martin says more state review is needed before any chemical shipments resume. PFAS Cleanup Update: The U.S. Navy says it put an interim pump-and-treat system into operation at Former NWIRP Calverton, treating PFAS-impacted groundwater in under 120 days and processing nearly 23,000 gallons in its first eight days. Data Center Politics: OpenAI, Softbank, Blackstone and major unions formed the American Infrastructure Alliance to counter local opposition and prevent data-center moratoriums, with an initial push that includes South Carolina. Surveillance Debate: Oconee County officials are weighing “mass surveillance” camera concerns after residents challenged Flock Safety-style license-plate tracking and a state Supreme Court case looms. Wildlife & Community: SC-HART is running a multi-county helicopter aquatic rescue training exercise in the Upstate (Oct. 5-9), and three rehabilitated sea turtles are set for release at Folly Beach.

Data Centers & Water: Greenwood County’s ad hoc data center committee kicked off work by picking leadership and naming water and sewer as its first topic, as residents push for safeguards before more facilities move in. Energy Costs & Reliability: Santee Cooper’s new energy plan flags rising costs tied to big “load” customers like data centers, while delaying solar and extending coal retirements and leaning harder on new gas plants—raising alarms for customer bills. Public Health & Drinking Water: Whitmire reported drinking water violations after disinfection byproducts (THMs) exceeded state limits, with residents criticizing late notification and questioning reliance on social media alerts. Wildlife & Outdoor Access: Ramsey Grove State Park opened as South Carolina’s 51st state park, adding 2,650 acres of trails and habitat along the Black River. Coastal Safety: A child in Florida was reported with a third 2026 case of flesh-eating vibrio Vulnificus, underscoring risks around warm coastal waters and raw shellfish. Weather: Rain chances rise this weekend across South Carolina, with a cold front bringing more widespread showers Sunday.

PFAS Accountability: Fifteen US states sued Corteva over its Vylor spinoff, alleging the move was designed to dodge PFAS “forever chemical” liabilities tied to polluted environments and health risks. Fire Safety at Home: South Carolina’s Department of Environmental Services kicked off Fire Prevention Week with “Be Battery Smart,” warning that lithium-ion batteries can spark fires if stored, used, or tossed improperly. Heat and Public Health: An NPR/Boston University analysis suggests heat-related deaths in North Carolina may be far higher than CDC counts, highlighting a growing climate-linked risk. Native Habitat Restoration: Scout Motors says it’s starting a phased plan to restore 1,100 acres near its manufacturing core with native trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildlife habitat. Roads and Weather Risk: Dense fog contributed to a major South Carolina pileup on I-95 near Lake Marion, with officials urging drivers to adjust routes and slow down. Local Infrastructure Input: SCDOT is seeking public comment on replacing the US 178 bridge over Bull Swamp in Orangeburg County, with feedback due Oct. 31. Prescribed Burns: SC Forestry Commission updated its prescribed burn notification process starting Oct. 1, including new notification number formatting.

Water Quality Watch: Central, S.C. issued a drinking-water notice after disinfectant byproducts exceeded a standard; the town says it’s not an emergency and people don’t need to boil, but it’s under a consent order. Solar Safety & Oversight: Silfab Solar in Fort Mill says it will restart commissioning no sooner than mid-October after an independent engineering review flagged gaps in gas monitoring, design records, and emergency communications. Disaster Recovery Funding: FEMA is sending South Carolina more than $5.4 million for Hurricane Helene debris removal, protective measures, and repairs, plus extra support for generators and emergency power. Wildlife & Habitat: SCDNR explains why alligators bask in winter sun and urges residents to keep distance and never feed; meanwhile, three rehabilitated sea turtles are set for release at Folly Beach. Community Cleanup: More than 350 volunteers removed 6,000+ pounds of litter and recyclables from Lake Murray and nearby waterways in Richland and Lexington counties. Food Security: USC launched “Feed the Flock” refrigerators to reclaim surplus food and package ready-to-eat meals for students across campus.

Disaster Recovery Funding: FEMA is sending South Carolina $5.4M+ for Hurricane Helene recovery and resilience, including $3.2M for SCDOT debris removal and bridge/culvert repairs, $1.5M for Greenville County, and $224K for Anderson County disaster management, plus $102K+ for emergency power for critical facilities. Food Security on Campus: USC launched new “Feed the Flock” refrigerators to reclaim surplus food and turn it into ready-to-eat meals across five campus buildings. Waterway Cleanup: Volunteers removed 6,139 pounds of litter and recyclables from Lake Murray and nearby waterways in Richland and Lexington counties as part of the Midlands Beautiful Lake Sweep/River Sweep. Solar Safety Watch: Silfab Solar says it will resume commissioning at its Fort Mill plant no sooner than mid-October, after an independent review flagged gaps in gas monitoring, records, and emergency communications. Wildlife Rehab: Two juvenile sea turtles—Hope and Buffalo—are set for release at Folly Beach after treatment at the South Carolina Aquarium. Local Environment & Health: Orangeburg County officials say a fatal crash involved very foggy conditions, underscoring road safety during low-visibility weather.

Disaster Recovery Funding: FEMA announced nearly $5.5 million for South Carolina recovery, including $3.2M for SCDOT debris removal after Hurricane Helene and $1.5M for Greenville County, plus hazard-mitigation support for critical facilities. Wildlife & Habitat: Monarch butterflies are returning across South Carolina for fall migration, with Greer highlighting pollinator gardens that help fuel the journey. Data Centers & Local Impacts: A new coalition backed by major AI firms, private equity, and construction unions says it wants stricter standards instead of data-center moratoriums, with South Carolina among targeted states. Environmental Protections Under Review: A report says the Trump administration’s reinterpretation of the Endangered Species Act could weaken protections, raising concerns for threatened wildlife. Community & Nature: Greer’s Monarch City USA designation spotlights local efforts to rebuild butterfly habitat. Road Work: SCDOT scheduled a temporary lane closure and flagging on US 601 near the US-378 bridge for Oct. 6–7 bridge girders replacement.

Disaster Recovery Funding: FEMA announced nearly $5.5 million for South Carolina recovery, including debris removal after Hurricane Helene and generator support for critical facilities. Wildlife & Habitat: Monarch butterflies are returning for fall migration, with Greer highlighting pollinator gardens as a key stopover for milkweed-dependent travelers. Conservation Grants: Sustain SC awarded about $139,000 for 12 land-and-water projects across nine counties, protecting thousands of acres. Local Land-Use & Greenspace: Berkeley County advanced “Flex 1 Conservation Zoning” to preserve rural greenspace, with buffers and rules aimed at balancing farming and development. Energy & Environmental Policy: A coalition of 22 state attorneys general warned the SEC about rating agencies promoting ESG, while another coalition urged FERC to reject the NextEra-Dominion merger over affordability and reliability concerns. Endangered Species Act: A report says a Trump administration reinterpretation of the Endangered Species Act could weaken protections. Infrastructure & Resilience: SCDOT scheduled a temporary lane closure on US 601 for bridge work, and the state also received FEMA mitigation funds for energy resilience. Community Nature Spot: A new Lowcountry golf course features a bog planted with native Venus flytraps and pitcher plants.

Data Centers & Policy: An AI-and-union-backed coalition is pushing data center “standards” in seven states, including South Carolina, aiming to head off local moratoriums and bans. Weather & Heat: South Carolina is in a warming, mostly dry stretch with sunshine, then a weekend push of showers—plus broader warnings that extreme heat is already reshaping outdoor life and even college football safety. Public Health: MUSC Hollings Cancer Center discusses rising lung cancer cases among never-smokers. Wildlife & Invasives: A look at tamarisk control highlights how invasive plants can reshape rivers and wildlife habitat. Local Environment & Land Use: Clemson opens a new forestry and environmental conservation building built with mass timber, using wood grown in a nearby South Carolina forest. Community Safety: Horry County urges safer driving as more motorcyclists hit the Grand Strand during the fall rally season. Care & Preparedness: A reminder for dementia caregivers to plan ahead for storms and emergencies.

Data Center Fight in SC: Big Tech, private equity, and building-trades unions are teaming up to push back against state moratoriums, including in South Carolina, by promoting 2027 standards for data center growth and costs. Local Power Oversight: The Southern Environmental Law Center is asking South Carolina’s Public Service Commission to reconsider a ruling that would let certain data-center power plants avoid siting-act oversight, warning it could open the door for more large private plants without review. Storm Readiness: A new guide urges South Carolinians to prep for storm season beyond hurricanes—checking roofs and gutters, trimming trees, and planning ahead for severe weather. Extreme Heat and Sports: Reporting highlights how hotter conditions are changing college football in the Carolinas, with heat-index spikes leading to safety delays. Shellfish Season: South Carolina’s oyster and clam season is underway, with daily limits, size rules, and a hotline for water-quality closures. Recovery After Helene: Two years after Hurricane Helene, federal public recovery assistance for South Carolina public projects is nearing $744 million.

Coastal Storm Planning: A new Rising Waters Lab look at how Charleston could handle a worst-case Category 5 hurricane scenario—storm surge, debris, and emergency operations—puts South Carolina’s climate risk front and center. Living Shorelines: Volunteers near completion of The Nature Conservancy’s longest living shoreline project in SC, using oyster-shell living shoreline techniques to cut erosion and protect habitat. Conservation Deal Watch: Editorial coverage urges public input as nonprofits seek to conserve 3,492 acres in coastal Georgetown County (Arcadia East Tract), where zoning could otherwise mean major development. Data Center Pressure: Jasper County is moving toward a one-year moratorium on new data centers in unincorporated areas, citing water and electricity demands; the second reading is approved with a final vote pending. Recycling & Packaging: Pregis expands barrier packaging with metallised PE film, produced at its Anderson, SC facility with high landfill waste diversion. Wildlife & Public Safety: Reports of a squirrel stealing Halloween decorations highlight how “cute” yard wildlife interactions can become a problem for animals. Shellfish Season: SC’s recreational shellfish harvest opens Oct. 1 with specific limits and mapped public grounds managed by SCDNR. Energy Policy: National coverage notes Trump’s move to end Biden-era EV mandate via new fuel economy standards, a policy shift with potential ripple effects for clean energy and emissions debates.

Coastal Resilience Planning: A new Charleston-focused series asks how South Carolina would handle a worst-case Cat 5 hurricane strike, laying out what leaders would do before, during, and after a direct hit. Shellfish Season Update: South Carolina’s recreational shellfish harvest opens Oct. 1 at sunrise and runs through May 15, with specific limits for oysters and clams and rules tied to public and state shellfish grounds. Local Storm Prep & Weather: Forecasts point to sunny, slightly warmer conditions in the Upstate with rain chances building later in the week—important timing for coastal and inland storm readiness. Recycling Fire Report: Witnesses reported a large fire at an Anderson County recycling center, with multiple fire departments responding as investigators work to determine what sparked it. Wildlife & Habitat Spotlight: A nature documentary, “American Amazon,” highlights wetlands and wildlife across the Southeast, including the Carolinas, bringing attention to biodiversity beyond the coast. Energy & Vehicles Policy: Nationally, Trump says new fuel economy standards end the Biden-era EV mandate, a shift that could affect emissions and auto investment debates that also land in South Carolina.