Town Notes ot es 2021 Quarter 2
4475 Betsy Kerrison Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 • 843-768-9166 • www.kiawahisland.org
Restrictions Regarding COVID-19 Extended until December On March 2, 2021, Town Council passed Ordinance 2021-03, which continues emergency restrictions that shall remain in place until December 31, 2021, or until the Governor allows the current State of Emergency to expire, whichever date comes first. Provided below is a summary. The Ordinance in its entirety is available at www.kiawahisland.org. Face coverings • Required for all persons, including employees, entering or waiting to enter any restaurant (including persons waiting to pick up a carryout order), business, club, or association facility at all times • Businesses and restaurants are responsible for enforcing this Ordinance with regard only to their employees and conspicuously posting the information for guests and employees Exceptions include: • A child who is two (2) years old or younger or a child whose parent, guardian, or responsible adult has been unable to place the Face Covering safely on the child’s face. • A person with a physical, mental, or behavioral health condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering. • A person actively engaged in eating or drinking or obtaining a service that requires access to or visibility of the face. • A person engaging in strenuous exercise or physical activity. • A person operating or occupying a vehicle alone or with other persons who are members of the same household. • A person for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to the health or safety of the person due to their occupation, job function, or work assignment. Additional exceptions are listed in the Ordinance. Restaurants Restaurants must continue to comply with the following restrictions: • Employees and patrons must wear masks or face coverings • Diners must be seated six feet away from diners at other tables • Seat no more than eight customers per table unless from the same family • Not allow standing or congregating in the bar area of the restaurant
Essential Businesses (those initially covered by the Governor's Executive Order No. 2020-21, Section 1(I)) must • Limit the number of customers not to exceed five customers per 1,000 square feet of retail space or twenty percent (20%) of the occupancy limit as determined by the fire marshal, whichever is less • Not allow patrons to congregate within six feet of one another, exclusive of family units • Comply with sanitation guidelines promulgated by the CDC, DHEC, or any other state or federal public health officials If you have questions, please contact Town Administrator Stephanie Tillerson at stillerson@kiawahisland.org.
Appointments & Assignments In January, Town Council re-appointed Joe Wilson as Town Attorney, Dorota Szubert as Town Treasurer, Petra Reynolds as Town Clerk, and the 2021 committee memberships. Sanford Ain was appointed to a three-year term as Municipal Court Judge. Town Council appointments and liaison assignments are as follows: • •
• • •
Mayor John Labriola will be the liaison to Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority and the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Dan Prickett was appointed as Mayor Pro Tempore. He will serve as Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee and State Accommodations Tax Committee and liaison to the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments, OffIsland Transportation Initiatives, and proxy to the Charleston Area Transportation Study. Maryanne Connelly will serve as Chairwoman of the Public Safety Committee and the Audit Committee and liaison to the Arts Board. John Moffitt will serve as the liaison to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning and Appeals, and the Public Works Committee. Dr. Scott Parker will serve as the liaison to the Environmental Committee and Kiawah Conservancy.
Jim Jordan
Town Notes | Q2
Town Office Closures
Monday, May 31, 2021 – Memorial Day Monday, July 5, 2021 – Independence Day
Solid Waste Notices April
Paper Shredding – Wednesday, April 28 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Municipal Center. Please remove all clips. Staples do not have to be removed.
May
Twice per week backdoor trash collection (Fridays) begins the week of May 7. PGA Championship Service Change Monday, May 17 – Friday, May 21 – All residential and regime solid waste collection will take place in the evenings, beginning at 7 p.m. Trash and recycling cans must be placed curbside to ensure collection. There will be no backdoor service or yard debris pick up this week. Memorial Day Service Change - Monday's trash will be collected on Tuesday, June 1. All other collections move forward one day. No yard debris pickup. Friday twice per week service will be collected as normal.
June
Bicycle Collection – Thursday, June 3 | 7 a.m. Contact Julie at (843) 768-9166 to schedule. Brown Trash Collection - Friday, June 4 | 7 a.m. See adjacent article.
July
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No change in service.
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Brown Trash Collection Friday, June 4 All brown trash must be placed on the curb by 7 a.m. to ensure collection. For larger items such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, etc., please call Carolina Waste at 843-576-1100 to schedule a pickup at an additional cost. What classifies as Brown Trash? Lawn chairs, grills, folding or beach chairs, mattresses & box springs (single or twin only), bicycles, strollers, and small appliances (vacuums, toaster ovens, toasters, microwaves).
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We're Social
Mayor’s Corner
John D. Labriola
I hope everyone is well and encouraged with the recent strides in the vaccination rollout. At our March meeting, Town Council passed Ordinance 2021-03, which requires face coverings and other emergency restrictions to address COVID-19. This Ordinance will remain in place until December 31, 2021, or until the Governor allows the current State of Emergency to expire, whichever date comes first. We will continue to monitor and enforce protective measures to reduce the spread of the virus. The Town plays several critical roles in the community. Over the next year, I will address these specific roles in more detail. For some of you, it will be information you may be familiar with. For others, especially new residents, it will provide a more in-depth look at the Town's various roles and services provided to the entire community. The Town's mission is to "Protect and preserve the residential character of the community while maintaining the benefits inherent in the resort community." With that, our residents’ and guests' safety and welfare are of the utmost importance. Living on a barrier island poses challenges to the essential services every community needs. The Town does not operate independent police or security forces, but we manage and work collaboratively with the Charleston County Sheriff's Office for this public service. Charleston County Sheriff's Department provides islandwide law enforcement and investigative support for the Town. In addition to basic County coverage, the Town contracts with the Sheriff's Office for four full-time deputies and part-time off-duty deputies to provide enhanced law enforcement patrols and traffic control. This gives the island continuous coverage 365 days a year and ensures law enforcement can respond quickly and consistently. Patrols are also up staffed during peak season weekends and holidays. We also provide four vehicles for the full-time deputies and recently added two bikes to allow the deputies a closer relationship with the community. The Town also works with Charleston County EMS to ensure health services are maintained appropriately and with adequate response times. They are aided by St.
Johns Fire Department and Beach Patrol. The training of staff as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) has been a major goal for both these organizations. Trained EMTs can practice life-saving techniques to sustain a patient until EMS arrives to transport. The St. Johns Fire District provides fire protection for the Town of Kiawah. The Town's Code Enforcement officers are responsible for enforcing all the Town Ordinances within Kiawah boundaries, and the Town's Beach Patrol is responsible for life safety and code enforcement on the beach. All of these entities, the Charleston County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Charleston County Sheriff's Office, St. Johns Fire District, Community Association security, Resort security, Town Code Enforcement Officers, and Beach Patrol, are represented on the Town's Public Safety Committee, chaired by Councilwoman Maryanne Connelly. This important committee plays a major role in ensuring the mission of the Town is met. One of the other primary responsibilities of the Town is to oversee the coordination and communication during any hurricane event. This is accomplished through the Town's Emergency Management Plan and the Emergency Response Team. This team coordinates and responds to all conditions that present a threat to life and property. They serve to ensure that the proper preparation and response to emergencies and disasters are taken, and all information, recommendations, and orders from national, state, or local authorities are passed on to all residents and organizations. We know that hurricane season comes every year and that emergencies are unpredictable. The Town has a team of qualified and professional personnel to see the island through whatever is needed. As always, if you have questions, please reach out to me or Town staff to get your questions answered or visit www.kiawahisland.org to access a wealth of information on various topics. If you can't find the information you're looking for, you can reach out to our Town Communications Manager, Stephanie Braswell, at sbraswell@kiawahisland. org, our Town Administrator, Stephanie Tillerson, at stillerson@kiawahisland.org or me at jlabriola@kiawahisland.org.
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Municipal Center Hours Changing May 1 Beginning May 1, 2021, the Municipal Center hours will change to 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. If you have questions, contact Town Administrator Stephanie Tillerson at stillerson@kiawahisland.org
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New Municipal Court Judge
Used Bicycle Collection Program
In partnership with Seacoast Church and Island Bike & Surf, the Town has begun collecting gently used bicycles. The bicycles will be serviced by Island Bike and Surf and then distributed by Seacoast Church to those in need on Johns and Wadmalaw Islands in December as a part of their outreach program. The first collection that took place on March 4 yielded 35 bicycles. The Town will collect gently used bicycle donations quarterly on the Thursday before brown trash collection. Interested residents should contact Julie to schedule a pickup at (843) 768-9166 or via email at jstaradumsky@kiawahisland.org. Bicycle collection days for the rest of 2021 will be June 3, September 2, and December 2.
St. Johns Fire District On Tuesday, January 5, the Town’s new Municipal Court Judge Sanford K. Ain, Esquire, was appointed by Town Council and sworn in by Judge Strauch. Judge Ain received his B.A. at the University of Wisconsin, B.A. Cum Laude and attended law school at Georgetown University Law Center. He is a member of the Supreme Court of the United States and a member of the District of Columbia, Virginia, Maryland State Bars, and a fellow for American College for Trial Lawyers. He is a founding Partner of Ain & Bank, P.C. and a lecturer with the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Maryland State Bar, District of Columbia Bar, Virginia State Bar, and American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Judge Ain trained in the Kiawah Municipal Court under Judge Strauch’s direction until his retirement in March. He will serve for a term of three years.
By: Ryan Kunitzer Fire Marshal, Battalion Chief
To better assist community members during severe weather events, St. John's Fire District recently acquired a high-water rescue vehicle and backhoe. The high-water rescue vehicle can enter high-water areas and help District firefighters evacuate or relocate stranded citizens during flooding events. The Caterpillar backhoe will assist the District with clearing roads and removing debris for better access to necessary infrastructure, fire stations, and neighborhoods.
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The new vehicles were provided with the assistance of the SC Forestry Commission. The Commission participates in the Firefighter Property Program (FFP), which helps fire departments acquire equipment to increase capabilities. The FFP program collaborates with the Department of Defense and the US Department of Agriculture to issue excess federal property to fire departments statewide for use in emergency response.
Beach Patrol Achieves DHEC Certification
Every new Beach Patrol employee receives:
• 48 hours of USLA preseason lifeguard training • 44 hours of Emergency Medical Responder and CPR training (Several employees have advanced certifications as EMT’s or Paramedics) • 4 hours of Beach Vehicle Operations class • 8 hours of Rescue Watercraft training focusing on victim rescues and vessel maneuvers • Daily opportunities for physical, medical, and rescue skills training • Prescribed monthly training • Code enforcement training
New CCSO Bike Patrol The Town’s Beach Patrol agency, Barrier Island Ocean Rescue, has recently earned certification as a Basic Life Support (BLS) Rapid Responder agency by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). DHEC certification is most commonly sought by EMS and fire departments, but Barrier Island Ocean Rescue is now the first and only open water rescue/lifeguard agency in the state to achieve this designation. Practically speaking, this means that Beach Patrol meets the state’s standards for medical training, patient care, and required equipment necessary to operate at the level of Emergency Medical Technicians. Meeting these standards enhances the quality of patient care and streamlines inter-agency coordination on medical calls from start to finish. Medical Director Dr. Keith Borg, and Assistant Medical Director, Dr. David French, have been instrumental in navigating through the certification process and providing guidance and training for their personnel. Councilwoman Maryanne Connelly and the Public Safety Committee also heavily supported this certification effort. Beach Patrol will participate in joint training with St. John’s Fire Department and Charleston County EMS in late April. In 2015, Barrier Island Ocean Rescue was certified as a seasonal Open Water Lifeguard Agency through the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) and became certified as an Advanced agency in 2019. Meeting the DHEC BLS agency requirements also makes Barrier Island Ocean Rescue eligible to transition from a seasonal classification to a yearround classification with the USLA. The year-round Advanced, Open Water Agency certification is the highest level of agency distinction recognized by the USLA. Pending application approval in the fall, Barrier Island Ocean Rescue hopes to make Kiawah the only east coast beach north of St. John’s County, FL, to meet these standards. Barrier Island Ocean Rescue currently provides ocean lifeguard services for the Town of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands.
Worth Noting
The Beach Patrol model employed on Kiawah Island is designed to promote safety, enhance medical care quality, and effect skilled rescues without interrupting routine patrols, wildlife responses, and ordinance enforcement. Each Kiawah Island Beach Patrol member is certified through the United States Lifesaving Association 5(USLA), the authority on open water lifeguarding.
In partnership with Charleston County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), the Town of Kiawah is adding bike patrol as a new extension to public safety services for the island. While other jurisdictions utilize bikes as a part of their patrols, Kiawah’s bike patrol is the first of this kind for the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. The Town purchased and supplied CCSO with two bikes to utilize as an additional resource in their patrols. The Town’s goal is to increase the visibility of law enforcement presence and provide easier access to areas of the island, such as the bike paths, nature trails, and golf courses. This will aid the deputy’s ability to respond to criminal activity, accidents, and medical-related incidents to less accessible areas of the island and provide other first responder agencies with critical information. Additionally, bike patrol gives the Town’s dedicated deputies opportunities to become closer to the community and increase positive community interactions with law enforcement. Deputies that are a part of the bike patrol attended a 40-hour training where they are taught precision riding, bike laws, emergency operation tactics, and how to use the equipment in civil disturbances. Berkeley County, the City of Charleston, and Isle of Palms are among the other communities that incorporate bike patrols in their public safety plans. The Town is excited to add this service to our public safety measures for the community. Residents can expect to see and encounter the bike patrols’ presence regularly about the island in the future.
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Air Medical Transport Since 2016, the Town has held an agreement with AirMedCare Network, giving each Kiawah Island resident a countywide membership for air medical transport rides coverage. AirMedCare Network is the largest air ambulance membership network in the United States. It has participating providers in more than 245 air medical bases across 32 states, providing air ambulance services for residents who suffer a life-threatening illness or injury.
State Accomodation Tax The Town of Kiawah Island State Accommodations Tax (SATAX) Advisory Committee will meet Wednesday, April 14, 2021, to consider applications for funding for the fiscal year 2021-2022. The meeting will be held at the Municipal Center (4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway), in Council Chambers. Awarded applicants will be announced in the Town’s biweekly email and in the next edition of Town Notes. If you are not currently receiving the Town’s mail, sign up by emailing sbraswell@kiawahisland.org.
So what does this mean for residents? If any AirMedCare Network participating provider flies an insured Kiawah Island resident for a life-threatening emergency from within Charleston County, the cost of the transport not covered by their insurance provider will be covered under the Town agreement. If the resident transported is uninsured at the time of transport, Med-Trans Corporation will bill the uninsured person at the “Medicare Allowable Rate” for the transport. As a benefit of the Town policy, Kiawah residents may upgrade at a discounted rate of $35-$45 annually (age dependant) to a full AirMedCare Network membership that provides additional coverage outside of Charleston County and without insurance coverage restrictions. For more information, call 800-793-0010 or visit www.airmedcarenetwork.com.
PGA Championship Service Change Monday, May 17 – Friday, May 21 – All residential and regime solid waste collection will take place in the evenings, beginning at 7 p.m. Trash and recycling cans must be placed curbside to ensure collection. There will be no backdoor service or yard debris collection this week.
PGA Championship The 2021 PGA Championship will take place May 17-23 at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort's Ocean Course. The PGA of America recently announced plans to limit spectators to 10,000 daily. The decision was made in coordination with the state of South Carolina, MUSC Health (the official medical services provider of the 2021 PGA Championship), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even with the reduced spectator numbers, residents should anticipate an influx in visitors and heavy traffic that will affect roadways on the island and Betsy Kerrison, River Road, and Main Road on Johns Island. As the PGA of America continues to monitor COVID-19 developments and work in concert with state public health authorities through Championship Week, the following COVID-19 Policies and Procedures, among others, will be in place for the 2021 PGA Championship: • Face coverings will be required for all spectators, staff, and volunteers, including those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine, and should be worn at all times (indoors, outdoors, or when riding any PGA-operated shuttle). • All spectators, staff, and volunteers are expected to maintain appropriate social distancing. • Sanitation stations will be available throughout the grounds, and regular handwashing is encouraged. Spectators will be permitted to bring their own hand sanitizers and facial coverings. • More information about the Championship's extensive health and wellness measures can be found at pgachampionship.com/health The PGA Championship perennially features the strongest field in golf. Six of the past nine winners became No. 1 in the Official World Golf Ranking, including Rory McIlroy, a four-time Major Champion who won the first of his two PGA Championships at Kiawah Island in 2012. The 2021 PGA Championship – the second in the PGA of America's landmark 11-year media rights agreement with CBS and ESPN – will feature CBS Sports, ESPN, and ESPN+, combining to deliver an unprecedented amount of broadcast and digital coverage. Globally, the PGA Championship will be broadcast in 164 countries and territories, reaching more than a half-billion households.
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2021 Schedule Beach Leash Ordinance Seasonal Change Kiawah’s beach is pet-friendly, but owners must be mindful of the beach regulations. Dogs are never allowed in the dunes, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. As a reminder, from March 16 - October 31, dogs must be on a leash at all times on the beach from the western Critical Habitat Area (near Beachwalker County Park) to the eastern boundary of the Beach Club. Electronic leashes are prohibited. View the pet restraint map at www.kiawahisland.org/beaches. Areas defined: • Critical Habitat Area: Dogs are prohibited at all times. • Remainder of the Beach (March 16 - October 31): Dogs must be on a leash at all times from the western boundary of the Critical Habitat Area (near Beachwalker County Park) to the eastern boundary of the Beach Club. • Dog Use Area: Allows dogs off-leash year-round from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. between the eastern boundary of the Beach Club and the Ocean Course pedestrian access. Dogs must be leashed from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.* * Off-leash Stipulations: Owners must remain with their dog, have them under control, and have a leash in their possession if there is a need to leash their dog, or if requested. Electronic leashes are prohibited. Leash ordinances are enforced by Beach Patrol and Code Enforcement officers who are authorized to ticket offenders resulting in fines up to $465. Problems regarding noncompliance should be reported to Beach Patrol (843-518-2880).
Don’t Adopt a Lost Fawn Fawns are born from April to July after a gestation period of 200 days. Does will have one or two fawns each year and will keep them hidden by themselves for the first few weeks of life. Fawns will lie quietly for hours until the doe returns from her forays for food. Fawns are scentfree during their first few weeks, which allows them to remain relatively safe from bobcats and other predators. If you encounter a fawn lying by itself during your walks on the island, do not approach or touch it. Any interaction with humans greatly increases the chances of the fawn being killed or injured.
April 26-29 May 24-28
June 22-25 July 22-24 October 7-10
November 4-8 December 3-7
King Tides are a normal occurrence once or twice every year in coastal areas. In the United States, they are predicted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The term “King Tide” is a term used to describe the highest seasonal tides that occur each year. These tides occur naturally and are typically caused when a spring tide (when the sun, moon, and Earth align during a new and full moon, increasing tide ranges) takes place when the moon is closest to Earth during the 28-day elliptical orbit. The effect of individual King Tides may vary considerably. In some cases, they may barely even be noticed. In other cases, a King Tide may cause coastal erosion, flooding of low-lying areas and disruption to normal daily routines. This is particularly true when a King Tide event coincides with significant precipitation. Over time, the frequency and effect of King Tide events may increase due to gradual mean sea level rise.
Lights Out for Turtles!
Steve Pagnotta
May thru October, all outdoor lighting visible from the beachfront should be turned off from 9 p.m. to dawn to protect nesting sea turtles. Artificial light such as flashlights, cellular phones, and cameras without filters are prohibited on the beach at night. Nesting females look for dark beaches to lay their eggs. Bright lights confuse them, causing them to abandon the beach in search of a more suitable spot. Hatchling turtles use the natural light to navigate to the ocean after leaving the nest. Mistaking artificial lights for the moon or sun, hatchlings quickly become disoriented, wandering into backyards, swimming pools, storm drains, and busy roads. Free red flashlight filters are available at the Municipal Center and Nature Center. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for Turtle Patrol highlights throughout the season.
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Dolphin Education Program
For more information on the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network, visit www.lowcountrymarinemammalnetwork.org. If you are interested in volunteering, email info@lowcountrymarinemammalnetwork.org. If you go to Captain Sam’s Inlet to watch this behavior: • Stand 15 yards (� 18 steps) from the water’s edge. • Do not attempt to wade in, touch, or grab the dolphins. • If you are in a boat or kayak, stay 50 yards from the dolphins. • Do not feed or encourage dolphins to approach you or your boat. • Never approach or separate mother/calf pairs. All marine mammals, including dolphins, are protected by Federal Law. Fines for harassment, feeding, or attempting to feed dolphins carry fines up to $100,000 and up to one year in jail per violation. Any harassment should be reported to Beach Patrol (843-518-2880) or NOAA Fisheries Law Enforcement Office (1-800-853-1964).
Dolphin strand feeding is a rare behavior that only occurs in the Lowcountry and a few other select areas globally. To help protect this phenomenon, in 2017, the Town initiated the Kiawah Island Dolphin Education Program in cooperation with NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN). The program utilizes trained volunteers and observers, called educators, that are stationed at Captain Sam’s inlet to observe and record dolphin behavior, educate beachgoers, and reduce negative interactions between people and dolphins. The Town of Kiawah Island currently provides funding for the program. LMMN also has a similar program on the Seabrook side of the inlet with support from the Town of Seabrook Island. During 2020, LMMN educators logged 668 hours on the beach, recorded 722 dolphin sightings, and spoke with 5,997 beachgoers. This year’s report indicated the following observations: • Dolphins spend a more significant proportion of time in or near the inlet than previously known and indicates the dolphins rely on this inlet more heavily than initially thought. • The team observed strand feeding every month of the year, with the majority occurring during July. • At least 11 different dolphins have been documented strand feeding in the inlet, all of which appear to be part of a pod (a dolphin family unit) that lives all year in the river. This is a tiny portion of the population, and chronic harassment could cause the animals to retreat. • A three-year-old calf (known as Kai) is often seen watching others strand feed, working the edges closely with its mother, and other behaviors that appear its learning the process. No new calves were identified this year. • Kayakers are responsible for most of the negative interactions with dolphins, typically by approaching too closely and disrupting feeding behavior. • When an educator was present, visitors were more likely to stay back from the dolphins and avoid disturbing their behavior.
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Alligator Mating Season
Alligators are a common sight on Kiawah, basking on pond edges or lazily swimming in the numerous ponds. The warmer weather of spring triggers breeding activity in alligators. Read the timeline below on what you can expect. April – Alligator courtship beings May – Mating season begins and continues through June. During this time, alligators are more active and mobile and, therefore, more visible around the Island. Male alligators participate in mating rituals that consist of announcing their presence with a low bellowing sound to attract their mates and slapping the water with their jaws, and lifting their tails high, causing vibrations through the water. June and July – Females begin building nests from mud, plants, and sticks to lay their eggs. They often choose the edges of ponds that have healthy vegetation for protection. Kiawah was intentionally developed to integrate closely with nature, and with that, precautions must be taken. Living with alligators requires constant awareness, respect, and caution. For more information, visit https://www.kiawahisland.org/archives/ wildlife/alligator-awareness/
Bobcat GPS Research By Jim Jordan, Wildlife Biologist
This year marks the 15th consecutive year of Bobcat GPS research on Kiawah Island. The project remains the longest, continuous GPS study on bobcats in the world and was developed by the Town of Kiawah Island, in partnership with the Kiawah Conservancy, in 2007. Bobcats are vitally important to the Kiawah ecosystem and play an essential role in managing rat, mice, and deer populations. This project was designed to better understand the habitat needs and requirements of bobcats and assist in management and conservation efforts. A total of 92 bobcats have been captured and fitted with GPS collars to date. Trapping this year took place for four weeks between late January and early March. Five different adult bobcats were captured and fitted with GPS collars. GPS collars are programmed to collect six locations per day for up to two years. GPS location data allows biologists to identify habitat use patterns during the day and nighttime hours, denning sites, travel corridors, survival, dispersal, and more. This information is used to pinpoint specific areas or habitat types on the island vital to bobcats and update the Bobcat Management Guidelines for the island. Due to the recent decline in bobcat numbers caused primarily by anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning, this type of data is of critical importance. For more information, visit https://www.kiawahisland.org/wildlife/bobcats/
2021 Bobcats Bobcat 200
Five collars deployed. Three new cats, two recaptures.
Bobcat 250
Bobcat 767
1st bobcat of 2021
19lbs 15 oz | 2-year old male Captured: January 27, 2021 Location: Near Ocean Course Clubhouse Born April 2019 in The Preserve. Offpsring of 2020 Bobcat 600. Bobcat 600 died June 10, 2020 from anticoagulant poisoning during labor, along with her four kittens. The second kitten in this den, a female, was killed by a car on August 11, 2020.
Recapture
Recapture of Bobcat 200 on January 29, 2021. Originally collared on January 27, 2021. We also caught him again on January 31, 2021. We have named this cat “Rainwater.”
1st-time Capture
1st-time Capture
16 lbs, 8 oz | Juvenile Male Captured: January 28, 2021 Location: The Preserve
13 lbs, 5 oz | Female Captured: January 28, 2021 Location: Near Indigo Park
Bobcat 550
Bobcat 300
15 lb, 10 oz | Adult Female Captured: January 29, 2021 Location: Little Bear Island Collared last year on March 10, 2020 as Bobcat 500. Weighed 13 lbs last year.
1st-time Capture
13 lb, 12 oz | Female Captured: January 29, 2021 Location: Flyway Drive
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Sea Island Christmas Bird Count By Aaron Given, Wildlife Biologist
The 10th Annual Sea Islands Christmas Bird Count took place on January 4, 2021. The weather this year was perfect for the count, with low wind speeds and temperatures ranging from the mid-40’s in the morning to low 60’s. The coronavirus created some challenges this year; however, we had good participation with 68 participants and were able to get good coverage of all the territories. I think we had better coverage because we had more groups, but they were smaller in size, allowing for more thorough birding. We had 18 participants in six parties on Kiawah Island, 10 participants in six parties on Seabrook Island, 10 participants in six parties on John’s Island, nine participants in three parties on Wadmalaw Island, and two participants in one party on Deveaux Bank. In addition to field parties, there was good participation with feeder watchers too. There were six participants at four locations on Kiawah, eight participants at seven locations on Seabrook, two participants at two locations on Johns Island, and four participants at three locations on Wadmalaw Island. The Sea Islands Christmas Bird Count team recorded a total of 44,026 individual birds and 157 different species. Kiawah Island recorded 17,991 individual birds of 128 species. Seabrook Island (including the Freshfields territory) reported 7,937 individual birds of 125 species. Johns Island documented 10,883 individual birds of 114 species, Wadmalaw Island had 3,626 individual birds of 102 species, and Deveaux Bank noted 3,586 individual birds of 36 species. The Town would like to thank all the participants and volunteers for continuing to make this event a success. Not only is the bird count fun and educational, but it contributes valuable scientific data to aid in bird conservation across the country.
2021 Highlights
New Species Counted King Rail
A King Rail was heard in a freshwater marsh on private property on Wadmalaw Island by David McLean, John Horlbeck, and Margaret Garrett. Kiawah was the only island with Virginia Rail, Wilson’s Snipe, Great Black-backed Gull, Eastern Screech-Owl, Hairy Woodpecker, and Prairie Warbler. John’s Island was the only island to contribute Mallard, Redhead, Long-tailed Duck, American Coot, Lesser Yellowlegs, and Dark-eyed Junco. Wadmalaw Island got Ruddy Duck, Rock Pigeon, King Rail, Cattle Egret, and Vesper Sparrow. Seabrook recorded the only Yellow-throated Warblers.
68 participants 44,026 individual birds 157 different species recorded
Species Highlights
Long-tailed Duck, Whimbrel, American Woodcock, King Rail, Prairie Warbler, Roseate Spoonbill, Winter Wren, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, Vesper Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, and Painted Bunting
Notable Misses
Peregrine Falcon, Field Sparrow, and American Bittern
Shorebird Spotlight Red Knot
The Red Knots are here! When they first arrive, they appear relatively anonymous in winter plumage but are unmistakable in spring when they wear robin-red on their chest. Red Knots undertake an incredible journey from South America to the Arctic, traveling over 9,000 miles, sometimes flying for six to eight days continuously over the open ocean without stopping. Kiawah is a critical staging area during their migration to rest and feed before continuing to their Arctic breeding grounds. Red Knots are federally threatened due to habitat degradation, loss of food, and climate change/sea level rise are significant threats. Here’s how we can ensure they complete their journey: • Keep a respectful distance and do not make noise around them. • Do not walk or bike through the flocks. • Do not allow your dogs to chase the birds. If Red Knots are present in the “dog off-leash” area of the beach, keep your dog on a leash and take them away from the birds. Allowing dogs to chase Red Knots is a violation of Town Ordinances and Federal Laws.
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Be on the lookout for them on the beach! Using binoculars to admire them from afar is an excellent way to see them up close while they are visiting.
Charitable Contribution Spotlight
In the past year, we have all become acutely aware of the importance of home. To Sea Island Habitat for Humanity, having a decent place of one’s own to shelter is more than just the American dream; it’s a matter of conscience and action for all. For the last 42 years, Sea Island Habitat has been working to bring people together “to build homes, communities, and hope.” Their construction and rehabilitation efforts impact 130 new people annually across James, Johns, Wadmalaw, and Edisto Islands. The bedrock of Habitat’s work is homes built by volunteer hands, purchased by families who could not do so otherwise. Prospective homeowners apply locally and must meet specific criteria like level of need and ability to repay an affordable mortgage or loan. Selected homeowners contribute several hundred hours of “sweat equity” to their own future home or other habitat initiatives. To ensure the investment is a success, homeowners also receive financial education. The Town provided Sea Island Habitat with a Charitable Contribution of $10,000 to go towards the Oak House Project, located on Murraywood Rd. COVID-19 related delays pushed back the timeline, but now this unique build is in the “home stretch.” The property was designed around a majestic live oak tree, and at the time of the Town’s visit, was slated to be move-in ready in March 2021. To volunteer or make a financial contribution, visit www.seaislandhabitat.org.
Update
The Arts Council 2020-2021 season will come to a close in April, with sadly no in-person events held. The pandemic brought many lows across the globe, but here are three “high notes” for our patrons. • The Arts Council and the Kiawah community at large succeeded in adapting to the virtual landscape. The Arts Council hosted four virtual events, with one still to come: the Small Glories on April 10. Visit www.kiawahisland.org/events/ for information. • Many of the 2020-2021 canceled performances have either been rescheduled for 2021-2022 or converted to virtual events. We’ll call that a mulligan! • The Arts Council has fresh ideas to make the guest experience better than ever in the upcoming season. Keep an eye on the Arts Council e-blasts for the season planner release this summer!
Kiawah Art & House Tour Postponed Due to concern for the health and safety of our members and guests, the Arts, etc. Board has made the difficult decision to postpone the Kiawah Art & House Tour from May 7, 2021, to April 8, 2022. If you have questions, please contact Mary Alice Roberts at malice214@msn.com.
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Upcoming Events
www.freshfieldsvillage.com
Spring Starlight Cinema Series Saturdays | April 10, and 17 | 8 p.m. A complimentary outdoor movie series host on the Village Green. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs for the series featuring Hop, Onward, and Trolls World Tour.
Sidewalk Saturday Saturday, April 17 | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Stroll through the Village to enjoy the fresh air and retail therapy! Participating retailers will offer special promotions, in-store events, and more throughout the day. More information at https://freshfieldsvillage.com/event/sidewalk-saturday-april-2021/
Cars & Coffee Saturdays | April 17, May 15, June 19 | 9 – 11 a.m. Arrive in your favorite ride or stop by the Village Green to browse unique, antique, and other cool cars at our monthly Cars & Coffee! Coffee and breakfast will be available for purchase at Java Java
Summer Farmer’s Market Mondays | June 7 – August 30 | 4 – 8 p.m.
***For the safety of our community, social distancing must be practiced, and masks will need to be worn by the guests***
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Tennis Academy Special Training Roy Barth Tennis Center | 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Does your family have a competitive junior tennis player who could benefit from an intensive week-long training session? Consider sending them to the Barth-Hawtin Tennis Academy. In addition to the full-time Academy, BHTA offers special spring break and summer & fall training weeks. To learn more, visit https://kiawahresort.com/ tennis/tennis-academy/ training-schedule/
Prime Rib Night at Players’ Pub Cougar Point Golf Course Clubhouse | 12 Kiawah Beach Drive If you’re looking to spruce up your Thursday dinner plans, visit Players’ Pub at the Cougar Point Clubhouse. Every Thursday is Prime Rib night featuring Certified Angus Beef Prime Rib served with baked potato and a garden salad. Pair with Cabernet Sauvignon either by the glass or bottle. For more information, visit https://kiawahresort.com/dining/the-players-pub/.
Family Cornhole Tournament Night Heron Park | 4000 Sea Forest Drive Welcome the return of warm weather by competing in Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s spring league Cornhole Tournament. Enjoy a refreshing beverage from Night Heron Grill while you take in the beautiful park views and the competition. Boards will be socially distanced, and teams will be assigned their own set of cornhole bags to use for the duration of the tournament. Admission is complimentary, but reservations are required. Every Saturday in April and May, beginning April 17, from 3–4 p.m. Call 843.768.6001 to reserve your family’s spot.
Nature Center’s New Residents Night Heron Park | 4000 Sea Forest Drive Be sure to stop by Heron Park Nature Center to meet the newest residents: two hatchling alligators who replaced the previous residents that outgrew the space. While you’re there, take time to enjoy the new bottlenose dolphin exhibit, a new seashell and artifact display, a new amphibian enclosure, an updated diamondback terrapin enclosure and an updated Burmese python enclosure.