Bluffton’s 35th Annual River Sweep on Saturday

BLUFFTON, S.C. (WSAV) – The Town of Bluffton, Lowcountry Stormwater Partners, South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium, and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) invite all greater Bluffton residents, kayakers, boaters and business owners to participate in the 35th Annual Beach Sweep/River Sweep on Saturday, September 21st from 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

The event will be held at the Oyster Factory Park on the May River located at 63 Wharf Street.

This is the 35th year this statewide event has been held and the 16th year in which Bluffton has participated. Thousands of volunteers across the state participate annually in this event, which is South Carolina’s largest one-day, volunteer, litter clean-up of beaches, marshes, and waterways.

Nicole Wright, the Town’s Stormwater Technician, said these events help create a sense of community as they educate residents about town and regional resources.

“The Town is very grateful for such an involved community whose residents share their concern and care for the May River,” Wright said. “Beaufort County’s waterways are rich in marine life and greatly contribute to the Lowcountry culture. This event provides residents an opportunity to be environmental stewards of our most cherished natural resources.”

Coffee, snacks & supplies provided for volunteers.

The Town of Bluffton encourages all individuals, families, friends, schools, youth groups, civic groups, conservation groups, kayakers, boaters and businesses to volunteer for a few hours to clean the river and roadsides which lead to the river.

Corner Perk will be providing a cup of their May River Blend coffee or hot chocolate before the event and the Town of Bluffton will provide snacks and water to volunteers.

Necessary supplies including gloves, bags, sunscreen, and water will be provided by event partners. Just bring yourself and wear comfortable clothes and close-toed shoes.

Water and land-based cleanup options:

Litter pickup will be taking place around the Historic District and on the May River. Local kayak club members will be assisting with cleanup efforts on the water. If you’d like to participate with your own boat or kayak, please arrive by 8:30 a.m. to allow time for setup.

Each local volunteer becomes a citizen-scientist and records data about the type and amount of litter they collect. This data is tabulated, added to South Carolina’s statewide data, and is incorporated into the Ocean Conservancy’s worldwide data. This cumulative data provides crucial information on the sources of litter so communities can better identify and target anti-litter education.

If you need more information about the event, please contact Nicole Wright, stormwater technician, with the Town’s Watershed Management Division at 843-706-4569 or via email at nwright@townofbluffton.com.

Registration is not necessary, however, please notify Wright if you are bringing a community group or organization so the event can plan for special projects and an adequate quantity of supplies.