**Written by by Jason Tighe & Anne Emerson, Thursday, August 25th 2022 for ABC4 News**
Laying unused for two years and partially sinking. Removing the structure is not cheap, with a possible price tag of more than $100,000. Governor McMaster got a close-up look at the derelict boat problem affecting Charleston waterways. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster got a close-up look. “We have a problem with boats being abandoned in the waters,” said Gov. McMaster.
The environmental “show and tell” was headed up by a group of nature lovers. “Combined, we’ve gotten rid of more than 220 boats,” said the CEO of Wounded Nature, Working Veterans. Over a four-year period, with around 50 boats still out there. “We’ve actually removed boats going back to Hurricane Hugo,” said Socha. But, that’s not even the oldest hazard in the area. One of the abandoned boats dates back to World War II and barely looks like it was ever seaworthy. But, decades later, it remains a serious hazard, partially hidden by water. “Most of that is completely covered, yes, which poses a real problem for recreational boats that come back in here to fish,” said Socha. Birds living in the area can get trapped in the falling-apart vessel. Some non-functioning boats are lived in, while others are used for storage, causing other types of trouble. “The biggest issue is when a storm comes and all of that debris that’s tied on the top, or his treasures, will end up in that tidal marsh right there,” said Socha.
Rep. Spencer Wetmore (D- Charleston) and local law enforcement also got a chance to share the troublesome coastal plight with the governor. “From Folly Beach to all the way here, this abandoned boat issue has been a big one for me,” said Wetmore. Governor McMaster and his staff acknowledged the dangers while saying teamwork and further study could help find solutions.
