KEOWEE - 30th Anniversary Issue

FOLKS BOARD CORNER

By Dale Wilde, President, FOLKS

The year 2023 marks FOLKS’s 30th anniversary as a nonprofit, volunteer stakeholder in the Lake Keowee watershed. This is truly a monumental feat for a citizen founded and organized group. Strong and committed leadership has been the key to our longevity. More importantly, strong community support through membership funding and advertising dollars has enabled us to grow and sustain us.

For the past several months I have been reading through our 30 years of Sentinels. The history in those pages is a testament to the thousands of volunteer hours that were dedicated to preserving Lake Keowee for generations to come through water quality monitoring, lake sweeps, educational programs, and habitat enhancement projects.

This special edition of The Sentinel magazine will highlight the milestones since our establishment in 1993. This issue also rolls out our redesign. The cover photo credit goes to Caren Smith, a Lake Keowee resident who has been photographing her family’s boating adventures for more than 15 years. Over the decades, The Sentinel has undergone numerous changes, from a four page black and white photocopy to the more recent years of a 36page, high-gloss, full-color magazine. The magazine will now be divided into sections to emphasize our mission of advocacy, conservation, and education.

We hope that you enjoy this retrospective look back on our 30 years and appreciate the efforts so many volunteers have given to FOLKS in order to preserve our beautiful lake.

We sincerely thank all our advertisers, corporate, and business members for the support over the years. Our newsletter began selling sponsorships and advertising in April 1995. Our first sponsor was the Seneca Sertoma Club. Their sponsorship was used to purchase testing kits for Tamassee-Salem High School to study the impact of run-off into Lake Keowee.

Since October 1995, Strickland Marine Center, now Strickland Marine and RV, has been our longest supporting advertiser and business member! Thank you so much for your 28 years of support!

KEOWEE

PUBLISHED BY FRIENDS OF LAKE KEOWEE SOCIETY 864-719-0599

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dale Wilde, President

Howard Gutenstein, Vice President

Sam Savoca, Secretary

David Metzger, Treasurer

Dr. John Hains

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Scott Calderwood, Lake Sweep

Paul Gibbons, Adopt-an-Island

Dale Wilde, Adopt-a-Stream

Sam Savoca, Communications

Dale Wilde, Communications

Endowment/Finance David Metzger

Events/Advertising TBD

HEP Committee Rep. Dale Wilde

HEP Committee Alt. Howard Gutenstein

LKSWPT Liaison Suzy McKinney

Dale Wilde

Web Administrator Sam Savoca

Magazine Editor Susan Pleadwell

Advisors

Tony Gody

Ann Savoca

Greg Prisk

Johnson Au-Yeung

Troy Knauss

Suzy McKinney

Rick Sommer

Communications Intern Ella Gutenstein

folks@keoweefolks.org facebook.com/KeoweeFOLKS

© 2023 KEOWEE is published six times a year and mailed to active FOLKS members. Any reproduction or duplication of this publication, or any part thereof, must be done with the publisher’s written permission. FOLKS is not responsible for the claims made by the advertisers.

FOLKS History and Its Beginnings

BY DALE WILDE, President, FOLKS

In 1993 a group of Lake Keowee residents, mostly from Keowee Key, met with representatives from the Lake and Watershed Association of South Carolina (now defunct) to discuss their concern that Lake Keowee had no group dedicated to focus on lake issues. That association and representatives of Clemson University and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) encouraged the Lake Keowee residents to create a nonprofit organization that would address and advocate for their concerns.

• “Because political boundaries do not coincide with watershed boundaries (and because politicians have not often been among the first to identify with watershed concerns).

• “Because a great deal of information about the lake does exist, but there is no medium dedicated to communicating this information to local residents.

• “Because the federal government, through the Pure Waters Act and the state of South Carolina, through the Department of Health and Environmental Control are mandated to develop watershed management plans that must have citizen input.

• “Because commercial interests may not always be coincident with the interests of local residents.

• “Because people who share an interest in the lake and its watershed would like to feel more of a sense of community.”

In April 1993 the forming members, who became the original board of directors, produced the first issue of The Sentinel newsletter to pose and answer the question of “Why organize?” and introduce and explain how advocacy, conservation, and education would become the mission of the Friends of Lake Keowee Society, Inc. (FOLKS). The newsletter’s specific goal was to enroll members. By June of that year 103 families had become members and three years later the rolls had grown to 625 families. Current membership is just under 850 members and growing.

Below are several of the answers to the original “Why organize?” question that are still relevant today.

• “Because lake organizations in other communities have been very successful in improving water quality, in participating in the development of plans, and in bringing lake-related issues to the attention of decision makers at various levels of government.

The first official meeting of FOLKS was held on May 11, 1993. By December 1993, FOLKS was incorporated as a nonprofit corporation for “educational, scientific, and charitable” purposes, organized under South Carolina and Federal regulations. Beginning as a volunteer-staffed organization, its membership grew from 50 families to approximately 500 families by 1995 with annual dues of $10 for a family membership. Membership dues increased slowly over the years, and have been at $45 for families since 2017, though additional membership levels were added to include $100 to $1,000. The founders of FOLKS felt that cooperative community effort could lead to positive accomplishments, based on the premise that ecologically sound management of the lake and its watershed would be, in the long run, in the interest of the Upstate.

Over the past nearly three decades, FOLKS has made significant impacts to the Lake Keowee Watershed with SCDHEC 319 Grants, Keowee-Toxaway Habitat Enhancement Grants, water quality monitoring programs, and regular lake litter cleanups. Today, with environmental impacts of development and water quality issues often on our minds, it seems that there is no reason to question “Why organize?”

FOLKS served as a stakeholder

(continued on page 6)

(FOLKS original logo)

FOLKS Board Corner

for the Lake Keowee relicensing, is the founding member of the Lake Keowee Source Water Protection Team helping to secure its initial funding of $1.2 million from Duke Energy, is currently serving on the stakeholder committee for the Bad Creek relicensing and Bad Creek II, and continues to serve as a stakeholder for the Keowee-Toxaway project.

By Dale Wilde, President, FOLKS

FOLKS volunteers are already off to a very busy 2023. In January, we obtained the permit to start work on the shoreline stabilization project on the island near Crowe Creek Landing Boat ramp, which is the nesting site for over 15 nesting pairs of Great Blue Herons. This section of shoreline abuts a very busy and narrow access point to a popular public boat ramp. Over the years the shoreline has been battered by boat traffic, and the edges were eroding to the point where tall pines were being lost.

Since its incorporation, FOLKS has received over one million dollars in dedicated habitat improvement grants and funds supporting water testing initiatives. Given the generosity of contributors and the distribution of environmental grants FOLKS has had over five million dollars of impact in the greater Keowee watershed. Through our endowment and liquidity funds FOLKS has an ample reserve should unforeseen events negatively impact the lake and watershed.

FOLKS remains as relevant today as we did 30 years ago. Why?

The rains in the area in January and early February kept postponing the work to stabilize the shoreline. Fortunately, a short break in the rainy weather on February 8 gave our 12 volunteers time to transport and install 36 coir logs along the shoreline.

Made of coconut husks wrapped in a tube of coconut, the coir logs are ten feet long by one foot wide and weigh about seven pounds each. The logs were secured to the shoreline using four-foot lengths of 5/8 rebar, which was pounded

Because our board, our members, our business and corporate members, and our advertisers believe in our mission—Friends of Lake Keowee Society is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of Lake Keowee and its watershed through advocacy, conservation, and education. The current team in the last five years has reestablished a growing impact in the region with net grants and other project expenditures up by on average of 34%—a five-year average impact of $179,118.

in with sledgehammers. In the spring we will finish the project by planting 250 plants— mostly grasses—to help secure the soil around the shoreline.

This approach to shoreline stabilization has been used in areas around the lake, and though not a permanent solution, with upkeep, it should preserve this island’s shoreline for many years.

The next habitat enhancement project is slated to begin in early May. We will be looking volunteers to help assemble 60 large Mossback fish habitats at Mile Creek County Park. We will also be helping South Carolina Department of Natural Resources install 8,000 grass plantings along shallow coves. Though it sounds like a lot of plants, it goes very quickly.

The FOLKS’s Board is excited about our future and our potential to continue to remain relevant while expanding our reach throughout the watershed. First, we will continue to advocate for enhanced safety measures on the lake for boaters and shoreline residents alike by continuing to reach out to legislators, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and local county leaders. Second, we are again expanding our water quality monitoring program. Dr. Ann Savoca and Dr. John Hains are working closely with SCDHEC to expand the Adopta-Stream program to include a Score the Shore and new Lake Monitoring Program. This exciting program will work with local schools to enhance their STEM (Science Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs, thus providing a great segue into our Jack Lewis Watershed Stewardship Scholarship program. Third, our Board serves on the Bad Creek Relicensing stakeholder committee and the Upper Savannah River Basin Council; we also continue to serve as a stakeholder for the Lake Keowee relicensing and the Keowee-Toxaway Recreation Management Plan. Participation on these important committees provides a strong voice representing our members and preserving our watershed.

In June, FOLKS volunteers will begin installing the 114 Mossback Dock Pro Kits. For those that signed up for one of these free kits, the permitting is being handled by the Duke Energy’s Shoreline Services group. Notices to those approved

In 2024, we plan to offer more educational presentations on the Lake Keowee watershed and more community outreach. If your community would like us to give a presentation, please contact us.

Continued to page 51

COUNTY

Contact

Oconee County Sheriff’s Department 300 South Church Street Walhalla, SC 29691 (864) 638-4111

KEEP

Susan G. Mason

Executive Director, Keep Oconee Beautiful Association P.O. Box 1491, Seneca, SC 29679 (864) 614-1281

koba.sc.director@gmail.com

COUNTY

Trinket Hurlburt

Oconee County Solid Waste 15028 Wells Highway Seneca, SC 29678 (864) 888-1440

solidwaste@oconeesc.com

FOLKS Legacy of Working for Sound Legislation

In 1994, FOLKS began working with legislators to pass legislation to protect our water and promote boating safety. We continue to work with legislators and lake associations across the state to pass important legislation.

CURRENT PENDING LEGISLATION

S.484 (SC Waterways Protection Act): This piece of legislation was first read in February 2023 The bill would create the South Carolina Waterways Protection Fund. This fund was created for the purpose of collecting a $3 waterways protection fee that will be attached to the tax notice for each watercraft registered in South Carolina. Funds would be expended primarily for:

1. the removal of hazardous, abandoned, or unattended vessels, marine debris, or hazards to navigation from the waters of this State;

2. identification, marking, and lighting of hazards to navigation in accordance with applicable rules governing aids to navigation; and

3. the development and administration of a grant program to provide funds to applicants, whether public or private, to remove hazardous, abandoned, or unattended vessels, marine debris, or hazards to navigation from the waters of this state. This bill passed the Senate 41–1 and was sent to the House and referred to the House Ways and Means Committee. It will be taken up by the House in the 2024 session.

“The South Carolina Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Act” – SC House Bill H4393 by Rep. Don Bowen (Anderson) & Mike Massey (Past President Lake Hartwell

Association)

From left, Mike Massey, Bill Graham, and Rep. Don Bowen.

The Cliffs at Keowee Falls (Salem, SC)

BY SUSAN DEESE, Communications Editor, South Carolina Cliffs Resident Outreach

At the northern end of Lake Keowee in Oconee County, lies one of The Cliffs three lakeside communities—The Cliffs at Keowee Falls (Cliffs Falls). Development began approximately 20 years ago and encompasses over 2,000 acres. Families from nearly every corner of the United States now call it home, owing to the extraordinary beauty of Lake Keowee and its surroundings.

In order to protect the environment that brought families here originally, many residents actively support FOLKS’s mission to “Advocate, Conserve, and Educate” in a variety of ways to maintain the beauty and splendor

of Lake Keowee and its watershed. They routinely engage in sweeps of the lake shore, multiple islands, and the surrounding roadways.

Cliffs Falls volunteers, in conjunction with Lake Keoweewide efforts organized and supplied by FOLKS, sweep the Falls Creek Landing area, both on foot and by boat. During these “lake sweeps,” numerous boats armed with trash bags and trash pickers scour islands, parks, ramps, and islands, removing anything left behind. Bottles, cans, food containers, and wrappers make up the bulk of the trash.

In addition to the twice yearly cleanups with FOLKS, residents take it upon themselves to engage in a massive, 5-mile cleanup of the Nimmons Bridge Road that borders the western side of their community. During the most recent effort, 38 Cliffs Falls residents filled 99 bags worth of litter that would have eventually found its way through the watershed and into the waters of Lake Keowee.

Within the Cliffs Falls community itself, resident

volunteers retrieve recyclables from the clubhouse, golf facility, and wellness center and transport them to appropriate recycling centers.

In the broader Oconee County area, Cliffs Falls residents [through donations into a Cliffs communitywide, South Carolina Cliffs Residents Outreach (CRO), a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the success of underserved children in the Upstate community] also put financial resources to work for the purpose of teaching future generations about careful conservation.

The Cliffs Falls CRO funds various initiatives for Walhalla High School students related to the incredible natural resources the Upstate enjoys. Recently, the Falls CRO provided funds to support the Environmental Science Programs, which encourage hands-on activities, including testing the water quality of Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee—truly taking the classroom outdoors. Camping supplies were purchased, and students have begun enjoying boating and rock climbing trips.

Similarly, the Cliffs Falls CRO provides “gap” funds for younger children to enable them to participate in the Jocassee Outdoor Education summer offerings.

Finally, the Cliffs Falls CRO and along with the Cliffs Vineyards CRO, have again helped to sponsor the FOLKS’s Jack Lewis Scholarship initiative that promotes greater educational awareness of the environment in Lake Keowee region’s local high schools. The CROs recently funded four $2500 college scholarships for qualifying high school students. The awards will go directly toward funding their college educations when they successfully complete their SC Adopt-a-Stream assignments.

The residents in the Cliffs Falls have varied interests and priorities, and the community is fortunate to have the many people who demonstrate their respect for the natural wonder around the area they call home.

FOLKS Promotes Boating Safety

BY DALE WILDE, President, FOLKS

FOLKS has always promoted Boating safety. The recent Wake Zone Bill passed in part due to the outreach that FOLKS did with local counties and statewide lake associations to encourage residents statewide to write to their legislators and ask them to pass the mandatory Boating Safety Course legislation. This bill would not have passed if letters were not written and voices were not heard.

Our Volunteers Show that Conservation Starts with Caring

BY DALE WILDE, President, FOLKS

Conservation efforts are driven by a desire to preserve Lake Keowee for future generations. Our volunteers understand this even though many of them may be new to the area. They were drawn here by the beauty of the watershed, purity of the water, and abundance of wildlife.

For decades FOLKS has conducted water testing to monitor the quality of Lake Keowee. Our testing methods have focused on measuring turbidity, Chlorophyll A, and E. coli. In recent years, we moved to monitoring streams using the Adopt-aStream methodology and soon we will roll out new lake testing accepted protocols.

Our Lake Sweep and Island Keepers Programs reflect our long-lasting commitment to preserving this pristine environment and keeping it litter free.

Since 1994, Lake Sweeps are carried out twice a year—in the spring (before the busy boating season) and in the fall (to tidy up the lake for the winter months).

From 1994 to 2022 FOLKS volunteers have picked up more than 20,000 bags of litter and identified hundreds of oversized objects that required Duke Energy to remove. Each event takes approximately one week and we have anywhere between 60 and 80 boats, with 150–200 volunteers, to collect hundreds of bags of litter each event.

The Island Keepers perform regular cleanups of an island of their choosing several times a boating season. We are very thankful for the ongoing support of these efforts! Currently, we have several islands that need new volunteers so please

consider becoming a volunteer. Information is on our website. Another example of our conservation efforts is with the Keowee-Toxaway Habitat Enhancement Program (KTHEP). In the past four years FOLKS has been awarded three large fish habitat projects ranging from 214 Dock Pro Kits installed under private docks to nearly 400 larger installations of large fish habitat in order to provide improved fish habitat to spawn and thrive. We have also installed 75 bluebird boxes and numerous osprey platforms. These projects provide great volunteer opportunities as well as opportunities to collaborate with local county parks, fishing groups, and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

KTHEP provides an effective means of allowing continued private recreational access while providing meaningful habitat creation, enhancement and protection activities for fish and wildlife adjacent to Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee, as well as within any part of the two watersheds.

CONSERVE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Mail to:

Check one: ¨ New Member ¨ Renewal

FOLKS C/O, The Alliances, 1201 N. Fant St., Anderson, SC 29621

Name

Address City State Zip

Phone

Community/Subdivision

Occupation (past/present)

¨ I would like to know about volunteer opportunities. Please contact me. Contact us: 864.719.0599 | FOLKS@keoweefolks.org

Our membership form is also online at KeoweeFOLKS.org or scan the QR code. Dues and donation are tax-deductible.

FOLKS ia a 501(c)(3) public service watershed organization.

MEMBERSHIP LEVELS

Student $15/yr

Family $45/yr

Patron $100/yr

Sponsor $250/yr

Benefactor $500/yr

Sustainer $1,000 or more (lifetime membership)

Business $100/yr

Corporate $500/yr

Option for digital copy only of the newsletter

Follow FOLKS on our Facebook page: @KeoweeFOLKS

Why Join FOLKS?

FOLKS’s 30-year history has been built upon the pillars of our mission statement that clearly focuses our efforts on advocacy, conservation, and education—ACE. Our achievements over the past few years:

ADVOCACY

• Stakeholder for relicensing efforts in the watershed

• Uniting voice in the state for boating safety

• Sustained efforts with litter cleanup and prevention

• Ombudsman and information resource for members and communities

CONSERVATION

• Adopt-a-Stream water quality monitoring

• Bi-annual Lake Sweeps and Island Keepers programs

• Installation of fish habitat—In 2022 FOLKS installed 100 Dock Pro Kits and nearly 200 larger fish habitat throughout the lake

• Bluebird nesting boxes and osprey platforms

EDUCATION

• Publication of the magazine—The Sentinel

• Jack Lewis Watershed Stewardship Scholarship Program—Awarded five $2,500 scholarships to local high school students in 2022 and raised enough funds to award up to five more students in 2023

• Bill Miller Adopt-a-Stream Lending Library— Provided $5,000 funding for local area schools to support stream monitoring efforts

• Outreach/virtual town halls to local Home Owners Associations

• Presentations to at Newcomers, Rotaries, and community presentations at World of Energy

We are excited about 2023 and celebrating our 30th anniversary of stewardship for the preservation of Lake Keowee and its watershed. FOLKS was awarded three habitat enhancement grants in 2022 to be completed in 2023. The grants include installing 114 Dock Pro Kits, 60 large fish habitats, planting 8,000 plants in shallow areas along the shoreline, and a shoreline stabilization project. Join our team of volunteers and become a member!

LOOK FOR DRAGONFLY LARVA IN THE WATER

TYPES OF DRAGONFLIES

1. KDOAMAEHWW

2. TEPNANN

3. KSMREIM

4. EHDRAS

5. CNREDA

Dragonfly nymph

• Size varies (around an inch in length)

• Can live in water for 5-7 years

• A fierce hunter

• Large jaws extend to catch prey

LOOK FOR DRAGONFLY ADULTS IN THE AIR

6. NREARD

7. DONGSNRADA

8. MNGIAERBW

9. PADHKNOW

10. DASSDELGBA

11. ERDLIG

Dragonfly adult

• Size varies. Blue dasher’s approx. 1'' body (above)

• Superb aerial hunters

• Catch their prey on the wing

• Love to eat mosquitoes & other insects

• Large compound eyes give a 360° view

Next time you are in a car see how fast 35 m.p.h. feels. Some dragonflies can fly that fast!

COLOR ME DID YOU KNOW?

OSPREY

Pandion haliaetus

Length: 21-26 inches | Wing Span: 59-67 inches

Look for osprey flying over the lake during the summer. This raptor cruises the water surface hunting for fish. Once prey is spied, this large bird dives feet-first to grab it. An osprey’s hunting success relates directly to its unique feet. Osprey have four toes on each foot, three front and one at the back. However, one of the front toes is able to swivel to the back to hold the fish more firmly. The feet have specialized pads with spikes (spicules) that aid in stabilizing slippery fish. The talons are round to pierce and hold their prey more easily.

FOLKS has installed numerous osprey nesting poles on Lake Keowee with Duke Energy Keowee-Toxaway Habitat Enhancement grants.

1.

MEADOWHAWK

2. PENNANT

3. SKIMMER

4. DASHER

5. DANCER

6. DARNER

7. SANDDRAGON

8. AMBERWING

9. PONDHAWK

10. SADDLEBAGS

11. GLIDER

CONSERVE

A LOOK AT MORE OF OUR PROJECTS

Duke Energy

Keowee-Toxaway Habitat Enhancement Grant

This project was part of a $57,000 Duke Energy Keowee-Toxaway Habitat Enhancement Grant that included 8,000 shoreline plantings and 60 large Mossback fish habitats. The project required 400 volunteer hours, and included significant collaboration with SCDNR staff.

In the spring of 2023, FOLKS Board members worked closely with SCDNR to install the plantings in sensitive areas on Lake Keowee to stabilize the shoreline and prevent erosion.

In the Fall, our volunteers assembled the fish habitats and installed them in 12 areas on Lake Keowee. In the creation of the Lake, everything below the 804 elevation was clearcut. Installation of fish habitat creates the much needed habitat for fish to thrive.

A LOOK AT MORE OF OUR PROJECTS

Great Blue Herons are considered a “bellwether” of ecological health because of their reliance on food in healthy freshwater environments. The conservation and protection of the nesting habitats for these birds is crucial for their longterm survival. Preserving these specific nesting habitats ensures the continued presence of these magnificent birds. Duke Energy’s Keowee-Toxaway Habitat Enhancement Program has supported two of FOLKS’s efforts to preserve rookies on the Lake— one on island 23B and the other near Crowe Creek Public Landing.

Throughout South Carolina, efforts have been made to conserve and restore wetlands areas, which are essential for the herons’ breeding success. The preservation of these habitats ensures the continued presence of these captivating birds and contributes to the overall biodiversity and ecological balance of the region.

Corporate & Business Members

We appreciate the support of our Corporate and Business Members and know that they will appreciate your patronage. When you do so, please thank them for supporting FOLKS.

CORPORATE MEMBERS

Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative, Inc.

City of Seneca

David Vandeputte—Joan Herlong Sotheby’s International Realty

Duke Energy

Greenville Water

Greg Coutu—Allen Tate Realty

Keller Williams Seneca Keowee North—Patti & Gary Cason, Melissa Cason Custer, Corey Custer

Keowee Key Property Owners Assn.

Oconee Federal Savings & Loan

Stoneledge Home Owners Association

The Reserve at Lake Keowee

Waterford Pointe Home Owners Assn.

BUSINESS MEMBERS

Action Services of Oconee, Inc

Allen Tate Realty —John Pulliam

Advocates for Quality Development

Backwater Landing

Blue Ridge Bank

Carolina Bay Healing

Spring Waters

Carolina Wealth Management

Classic Lighting

Custom Dock Systems, Inc.

Dolly’s Roofing

Dorn’s Landscape Service

For the Birds, Inc.

Golden Corners Lakes Sail & Power Squadron

Goldie & Associates

Justin Winter Sotheby’s International Realty

Keller Williams— Chuck and Eva Gouge with Mary Keith Eustis

Keowee North Marine

Kingfisher Maps

Kroeger Marine Construction

Lake Keowee Marina

Lighthouse Restaurant & Event Center

Melanie Fink and Associates—Allen Tate Realty

My Garage by Essex

Northwestern Supply

Porch Conversion of Seneca

Rainmaker Ponds and Irrigation

Sexton Griffith Custom Builders, LLC

Shorescapes, Inc

Strickland Marine and RV

The Boat Dock Company

The Happy Berry

The Lake Company —Lake Keowee

The Wine Emporium

T&M Custom Docks

Upstate Insurance Agency

Vassey Financial Planning and Investments

FOLKS Supports Boater Safety Courses

Recently South Carolina passed a mandatory boater safety education law. For years, FOLKS has encouraged all boaters to take the safety course and in each Sentinel magazine we have published the information on when and where classes will be held. We strongly believe safety courses will reduce accidents on the lake.

In 2021, there were 201 recreational boating accidents reported to the Law Enforcement Investigations section, which included 21 fatalities, 71 injuries, and 21% involved Personal Watercraft.

Fifty-seven percent of all accidents occurred on the weekend; 64% occurred between the hours of 12:01 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. In 86% of all accidents, the operator was 20 years of age or older. In 26% of all accidents a criminal case was made.

The majority of accidents are the result of No Proper Lookout, Operator Inattention, and Operator Inexperience.

Starting August 18, 2023 a new law requires anyone born after July 1, 2007, to take and pass a state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) approved boating safety course before operating a motorized vessel of 10 horsepower or more by themselves.

PRIMARY CAUSES OF ACCIDENTS

BREAKDOWN OF ACCIDENTS IN 2021

MONTH, DAY OF THE WEEK, TIME OF DAY ACCIDENTS OCCURRED

2024 AMERICA’S BOATING COURSE

2024 AMERICA’S BOATING COURSE

Designed to advance public knowledge and skills for safer boating in the Upstate. Learn State and local regulations, including wake/wake boat restrictions and mandatory safe boating education requirements, safety equipment, how to handle emergencies, anchoring, trailering, navigation rules and aids, personal watercraft operation, and knot tying. There is an option for on-the-water training.

Designed to advance public knowledge and skills for safer boating in the Upstate. Learn State and local regulations, including wake/wake boat restrictions and mandatory safe boating education requirements, safety equipment, how to handle emergencies, anchoring, trailering, navigation rules and aids, personal watercraft operation, and knot tying. here is an option for on- the-water training.

WHEN: In 2024 we will offer three courses, each consists of three evening classes with the exam on the third night. Each class will meet on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 8:30 pm.

WHEN: In 2024 we will offer three courses, each consists of three evening classes with the exam on the third night. Each class will meet on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 8:30 pm.

• March 12, 19 and 26 with the exam on the 26th

§ March 12, 19 and 26 with the exam on the 26th

§ April 23, 30 and May 7 with the exam on the 7th

• April 23, 30 and May 7 with the exam on the 7th

§ September 10, 17 and 24 with the exam on the 24th

• September 10, 17 and 24 with the exam on the 24th

WHERE: Classes are held at St. Marks United Methodist Church in Seneca, SC; or via an online Zoom meeting with a final in-person exam session.

WHERE: Classes are held at St. Marks United Methodist Church in Seneca, SC; or via an online Zoom meeting with a final in- person exam session.

COST: There is no cost for the course other than $35 for a manual and supplies. The manual can be shared by family members.

COST: There is no cost for the course other than $35 for a manual and supplies. The manual can be shared by family members.

Preregistration is requested at least 2 weeks in advance.

Preregistration is requested at least 2 weeks in advance. To sign up call Ron Osburn, 864-972-2434 or email ozbrn@bellsouth. net For additional information, visit our website at gclsaps.com America’s Boating Club® is a registered trademark of the United States Power Squadrons®

To sign up call Ron Osburn, 864- 972-2434 or email ozbrn@bellsouth.net For additional information, visit our website at gclsaps.com America’s Boating Club® is a registered trademark of the United States Power Squadrons®

FOLKS is a proud member of the North American Lake Management Society

JOIN FOLKS AT THE PATRON LEVEL or above and we will include our hat with your membership

You can join online at FOLKSKeowee.org/support-folks

Lakes of the Upstate FOLKS PRESENTS

PRESENTATIONS BY DR. JOHN HAINS, Duke Energy’s World of Energy

Dr. John Hains conducted educational presentations since 1994. Many are familiar with Dr. Hains’ regular articles on Limnology, which is the study of the biological, chemical, and physical features of the lakes and other bodies of fresh water.

In 2023, Dr. Hains offered a series of presentations at Duke Energy’s World of Energy on Lakes of the Upstate: A Unique and Exceptional System. The presentations were well attended. Each presentation focused on the fresh water ecosystem of the Savannah River Basin and the system of lakes in our area: Bad Creek Reservoir, Lake Jocassee, and Lake Keowee.

The presentations covered interesting historical facts, current descriptions, and some basic science that helped explain the unique and fascinating characteristics of our lakes.

FOLKS plans to have Dr. Hains offer more presentations in 2024. He currently represents FOLKS on the Savannah River Basin Council and on the Bad Creek Reauthorization Committee. His extensive hands-on experience during the creation of Lake Keowee offers area residents firsthand, factual information that is presented in an easy to understand format.

LAKE KEOWEE FACTS:

In the mid-1960s Duke Power Company (now known as Duke Energy) bought 83,400 acres in Oconee and Pickens Counties from the Singer Corporation with the intent of creating a way to supply power to the growing southeast region. This became known as the Keowee-Toxaway project—a project that cost over $700 million to construct.

• South Carolina law prohibits “wake surfing” on all state waters within 200 feet of a dock, a person in the water or an anchored watercraft.

• Wake surfing is defined in the law as operating “a vessel that is ballasted in the stern so as to create a wake that is, or is intended to be, surfed by another person.” That’s to say, to drive boats that are designed or set up to create a significant wake.

• The new law comes amid increasing popularity in the activity as law enforcement and policymakers looked for ways to keep people and property safe.

• Violation of this law is a misdemeanor and generally punishable by fines of about $100$600, depending on court fees in each county jurisdiction.

From the Archives

From the Archives

For Nature Lovers and Outdoorsy Types

BY DALE WILDE, President, FOLKS

Waterfall Hikes of Upstate South Carolina

By Thomas E. King

If you enjoy waterfalls and exploring new areas in Upstate South Carolina, this is a must have book. Waterfall Hikes of Upstate South Carolina not only details the basic how to get there and what you will see, King depicts each hike to a waterfall with exceptional storytelling prose which captures the essence of the wilderness, transporting readers to the heart of the landscape.

The book is easy to navigate, and each entry provides clear details about the trail difficulty, length, elevation gain, and estimated time, ensuring that hikers can choose an adventure that suits their preferences and fitness levels. The inclusion of trail maps and directions further enhances the usability of the guide, making it a reliable companion for both beginners and experienced trekkers. King provides information about accessibility options for each hike, ensuring that individuals of all physical abilities can partake in the joy of outdoor exploration. This inclusiveness echoes his belief that nature’s beauty should be accessible to everyone.

South Carolina Wildlife

By South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

The South Carolina Wildlife first began publishing in the winter of 1954. It has been publishing its magazine to educate people about the value of our wildlife resources, recreational opportunities, and history. Each issue highlights conservation success stories and heartwarming reflections of the aweinspiring outdoor adventures. A two-year subscription costs $30 for 12 issues and with that you get access to all the digital issues dating back to 1954. Each issue has wonderfully written articles with beautiful photography. Magazine Editor Joey Frazier does an incredible job every issue highlighting what makes South Carolina wildlife so very special. Most magazines have a limited shelf, but not the South Carolina Wildlife, it is one worth saving and rereading for years. Subscribe now and buy a gift subscription for your friends who enjoy South Carolina as much as you.

What truly sets King’s book apart is his dedication to explain the history, geology, and flora and fauna of each area. Readers gain a deeper appreciation for the ecological significance of these waterfalls and the surrounding ecosystems. King’s insights into responsible hiking practices and environmental conservation also underscore his commitment to preserving these natural wonders for generations to come.

The images in the book capture the grandeur and serenity of the waterfalls, showcasing the interplay of light and water in these enchanting landscapes. The visuals not only inspire wanderlust but also serve as a valuable reference for identifying landmarks during the hikes. His passion and expertise make this book a valuable companion for anyone exploring Upstate South Carolina’s waterfalls.

FOLKS Announces the 2023-2024 Jack Lewis Watershed Stewardship Scholarship

BY SUZY MCKINNEY, FOLKS Technical Advisor, and AMANDA GLADYS, Walhalla High School Science Department Chair

FOLKS is proud to announce the 2023–2024 scholarship for high school students who show a strong interest in natural resource conservation and the environment. Our scholarship is named in honor of Jack Lewis, whose time with FOLKS spanned more than 20 years, and whose enthusiastic attitude, keen sense of duty, and good heart were evident throughout his tenure.

FOLKS strives to turn passion for conservation into action and encourages students to work for the issues they believe in. We believe that every act of environmental stewardship— no matter how small—helps the world become a better place. Our scholarship will engage students in their community and inspire them to be advocates for the environment, whether local or global. FOLKS awarded scholarships to five students in 2023, all of whom are actively monitoring their streams.

FOLKS would like to recognize and thank The Cliffs at Keowee Falls Cliffs Resident Outreach (CRO) and Cliffs Vineyards CRO for their 2024 scholarship endowments and continued support.

The scholarship program is supported by the donations of organizations and individuals.

Scholarship applicants must be residents of either Oconee or Pickens County, full-time high school students in good academic standing, and classified as a sophomore or junior during the 2023–2024 school year. The applicant shall indicate his/her intent to apply to either a two-year or four-year college curriculum on the application. Upon notification of eligibility to participate in the scholarship program, students will be required to attend the SC Adopt-a-Stream Freshwater Monitoring and Macroinvertebrate workshop and obtain certification. Workshop classes are free, and the sampling materials/kits are provided at no cost.

Selected students will be required to monitor a designated stream segment for a period of six consecutive months, adhering to SC Adopt-a-Stream protocols, and to provide a presentation on the health of the stream throughout the sampling period. Prior to sampling, the student will conduct a Habitat Assessment using the form and methods described in the SC Adopt-a-Stream workshop. Students are expected to upload their data and results of the assessment to the SC Adopta-Stream database.

The FOLKS Scholarship Application is available at our website: FOLKSKeowee.org/scholarship. The application must be completed and all required materials submitted no later than November 17, 2023. Students who qualify for the scholarship will be announced February 1, 2024.

We believe that every act of environmental stewardship— no matter how small—helps the world become a better place.

FOLKS Announces the 2024 Jack Lewis Watershed Stewardship Scholarship

Friends of Lake Keowee Society (FOLKS) is proud to provide financial support for college to a high school student who shows a strong interest in natural resource conservation and the environment. The Jack Lewis Watershed Stewardship Scholarship is named in honor of Jack Lewis, whose time with the Friends of Lake Keowee Society spanned 24 years. Jack’s enthusiastic attitude, keen sense of duty, and good heart were evident throughout his tenure.

Area high school sophomores and juniors can obtain more information and apply for the scholarship online at KeoweeFOLKS.org/scholarship.

All Applications are due November 17, 2023.

If you have questions or are unable to access the application, please contact Amanda Gladys at agladys@sdoc.org

FOLKS was awarded a Habitat Enhancement Grant for 60 Mossback Safe Haven XL Kits. The kits are easy to assemble, but we need volunteers to help assemble them. Please email our office (folks@keoweefolks.org) and let us know if you are willing and able to help assemble these kits. The kits weigh 90 pounds each. South Carolina DNR will install them in the lake with the use of their boats.

Important Sites & Numbers to Know

Pickens County: co.pickens.sc.us

Oconee County: oconeesc.com

South Carolina Legislature: scstatehouse.gov

SCDNR Hotline: 800-922-5431

Non-Emergency Pickens County Sheriff: 864-898-5500

Non-Emergency Oconee County Sheriff: 864-638-4111

SCDHEC: 855-472-3432

Litter issues in Pickens County: 864-898-5265

Litter issues Oconee County: 864-638-4111

Report a litter being thrown from a car: 877-754-8837

Duke Energy Lake Services: 704-382-8086 or 800-443-5193

GET Published

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: FOLKS invites members to submit your original Lake Keowee photography for consideration in our upcoming publications. We know you have some amazing photos that are worth publishing and we want to share it with our community. We’re looking for a wide range of subject matter—landscapes, waterscapes, wildlife, people, action shots, your favorite places, hidden gems, rare sightings, etc.

All submissions will be reviewed for reproduction quality and the highest rated images will be selected for publication. Photo requirements include high resolution, a minimum of 8''x10'', jpg format, and must be taken by a FOLKS member. Please include member name, photo title and photo location when submitting. Email submissions to folks@keoweefolks.org with the subject line “PHOTO FOR PUBLISHING.”

PHOTO BY: YOUR NAME HERE

FRIENDS OF LAKE KEOWEE SOCIETY, INC.

C/O The Alliances

1201 N. Fant St., Anderson, SC 29621

WE NEED VOLU NTEE RS

That means YOU!

FOLKS needs dedicated individuals to join us in our mission to make a positive impact on this place we call HOME! If you are passionate about Advocating, Conserving, Educating and living your best life on Lake Keowee, we want you to join us.

We are in search of new board members and volunteers to help with events. In addition, we are currently advertising for two contract positions: a communications/social media director and an events coordinator.

Ready to help make a difference?

Email folks@keoweefolks.org