u/literanista

In addition to the shoreline contamination in this article, Grand Strand Water & Sewer customers may see a roughly 10% water-rate increase tied in part to new PFAS treatment requirements.

These “forever chemicals” have been detected in waterways connected to the Pee Dee watershed, Bull Creek, and the Intracoastal Waterway that feed into our regional water system.

The chemicals drawing the most concern include PFOA, PFOS, GenX, PFHxS, and PFNA.

Studies have linked long-term exposure to some PFAS compounds with kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, liver damage, reduced immune response, elevated cholesterol, and developmental risks in children.

For coastal communities like Murrells Inlet, this is not just about utility bills. It is about the long-term health of our marshes, fisheries, wildlife, drinking water, and public trust.

In the meantime, homeowners can take practical steps:

• Review your GSWSA water quality reports and PFAS updates

• Consider NSF-certified reverse osmosis systems or activated carbon filters specifically tested for PFAS reduction

• Limit use of stain-resistant sprays, waterproofing treatments, and older nonstick products

• Avoid flushing chemicals, solvents, or unknown products into drains

• Support stronger industrial discharge oversight and watershed monitoring in Horry and Georgetown counties

• Pay attention to local discussions around estuary health, dredging, stormwater runoff, and upstream industrial pollution

PFAS contamination is now a national infrastructure and public health issue. Coastal South Carolina should not wait until the damage is harder and more expensive to reverse.

I’m purchasing a zero water pitcher as we speak.

“The commission initially projected it would need $302 million and it had $2.7 million in carryover funds—but now it will likely need $330 million.”

What is it with officials not knowing how to account for finances correctly.

I wonder how long this has been going and how many parents are aware.

An investigation by NJ Spotlight News found that schools spent public funds on “Blue Ribbon” awards from a South Carolina nonprofit that critics say can mislead parents into believing the honors are tied to rigorous national academic standards.

Parents, advocates, and some education officials argue the program relies heavily on paid applications and marketing language that resembles the far more prestigious federal Blue Ribbon Schools Program, creating confusion about school quality and accountability.

The article raises broader concerns about transparency, the commercialization of school recognition programs, and whether taxpayer money should fund awards that critics describe as more promotional than merit-based.

Southern Living spotlights their r favorite things to do in Georgetown, South Carolina.