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Current Issues Re-licensing-- South Carolina Electric and Gas Co. ( SCE&G) has applied for a new license to operate on this public waterway. The utility has made available to the public "Initial Consultation Documents" which will include proposed studies to determine the "state of the project" . The public will have an opportunity to review, provide comments, and recommend additional studies if warranted. SCE&G has contracted with Kleinschmitt a consulting firm specializing in dam re-licensing. The firm has set up a website to assist in public involvement and to gather input. Visit the web site at http://www.saludahydrorelicense.com Lake Levels- Lake Watch believes that the utility can operate efficiently and safely between 359' msl and 356' msl. We are recommending that the licensee conduct studies to evaluate alternative operating schemes which will better serve the public. Cove clearing- Upon request by Lake Watch, the SC DNR is investigating a clearing in Settle Cove on Lake Murray. The clearing was done by a developer and permitted by SCE&G. The utility believes that the clearing was proper. Wildlife officials disagree. A report is forthcoming. Lake Watch believes the area in question qualifies as an environmentally sensitive(ESA) and a permit should not have been issued. Federal officials recently ordered the utility to identify, map, and protect ESA's on easement lands. ESA's are normally shallow cove areas with a continuous line of emergent vegetation along the shoreline. Lake Watch encourages the public to report any questionable clearing to our organization immediately. We will investigate then contact the utility. Buffer Zone Restoration- The utility is currently consulting with DNR and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to come up with a plan to restore buffer zones on shorelines that have been inappropriately altered. This only applies to developments where fringelands were sold after 1990. Federal officials have ordered SCE&G to submit the plan no later than June 23, 2005. The plan will most likely be public noticed. Lake Watch will alert the lake community at that time.
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