AGP Executive Report

Plastics Fight in Court: South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson joined a 17-state coalition challenging California’s Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, arguing the rules would raise costs and reach beyond state lines. Local School Environmental Testing: Darlington County School District shared results from soil testing at Black Creek Elementary after the site’s past use for farmland receiving biosolids; state and federal agencies say detected PFAS pose no risk to students and no immediate action is required. Wildlife Safety: New research highlights how rodent-killing anticoagulant baits can threaten small wild cats, including a bobcat population on Kiawah Island facing local extinction. Heat Outlook: South Carolina is bracing for a stretch of hot weather, with highs climbing into the 90s and a chance of early showers Tuesday. Community & Climate Education: The South Carolina Aquarium’s “Jurassic Seas” exhibition is set to open, using deep-time ocean life to connect visitors to today’s living ecosystems and climate impacts.

Charleston Tree-Trim Transparency: Charleston and Dominion launched an online hub with maps, timelines, and FAQs to explain where and why trees are being trimmed or removed near power lines—aimed at reducing long-running resident complaints. Coastal Fisheries: A federal judge paused South Carolina’s extended red snapper season, pushing anglers back to a shorter schedule while the state and NOAA work on fall dates. Plastics Policy Fight: A 17-state coalition led by Nebraska AGs sued to block California’s plastics “extended producer responsibility” law, arguing it unlawfully reaches beyond state lines and could raise costs nationwide; South Carolina is listed among the challengers. Severe Weather Watch: Upstate South Carolina faces a stormy start to the week with possible strong to severe thunderstorms and damaging winds, followed by a brief midweek break before more summer pop-up storms. STEM in the Sky: NASA Wallops plans a sounding rocket launch carrying student experiments for RockSatX/RockOn, combining both programs into one mission. Local Education Spotlight: Clemson hosted the CHE Teaching, Leading, and Learning Exchange, bringing together educators and state partners to share practices for improving instruction and leadership across South Carolina.

Severe Weather Watch (Upstate SC): The National Weather Service is flagging strong to severe storms for Monday and Tuesday, with damaging straight-line winds the main threat, plus heavy rain and frequent lightning. Clean Energy in SC: Ever.green says it completed the 2-megawatt Pruger Solar project in Marion County, with REI Co-op buying most High-Impact RECs—aimed at helping solar projects finance through long-term demand. Wildlife & Safety: A massive alligator showed up on a Moncks Corner porch and was removed with help from Animal Control and the state DNR, with officials noting larger gators can be dangerous. Marine Research: NOAA’s research ship Nancy Foster docked in Savannah to study marine life and ocean conditions, including work tied to Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary. Public Health (SC): A new report finds South Carolina overdose deaths dropped “very significantly,” while suicides rose—highlighting a mixed injury-prevention picture. Community Resilience: Florence County Fire Rescue received $108,200 in grants for responder safety gear and traffic control support during major incidents and natural disasters. Local Food Culture: Heartwood Community School in Ridgeland is using family-style meals to build community—an unusual school lunch model gaining attention.

Coastal & Water Quality: Congaree Riverkeeper says bacteria levels spike after downpours, with temporary swimming warnings issued on Columbia rivers after heavy rain—an urgent reminder to avoid natural waters when advisories are posted. Marine Research: NOAA’s research ship Nancy Foster docked in Savannah to study marine life and ocean conditions, including work tied to Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary. Wildlife & Human Space: A giant alligator made its way to a Summerville-area homeowner’s front door, triggering a three-hour standoff with responders before it was removed. Weather & Heat Prep: South Carolina marked the astronomical start of summer with the longest day of the year, while Arthur’s remnants still left the state with early-season rain and wind impacts—officials urge residents to secure outdoor items and check emergency alerts. Local Governance: North Charleston’s skate park design is up for review, with additional public safety and runoff election activity in the mix this week. Policy Watch: A House plan would cut SNAP by nearly $300 billion through 2034, threatening food assistance for millions. South Carolina Politics: As SC runoff elections near, attorney general candidate David Stumbo is reported hospitalized days ahead of the vote.

Water Quality Watch: Congaree Riverkeeper says heavy rain can spike bacteria in Columbia-area rivers, triggering swimming advisories and raising illness risk—especially after downpours when stormwater and possible sewer spills push germs into waterways. Coastal Flooding & Storm Aftermath: Tropical Storm Arthur’s remnants have eased off the Eastern Seaboard, but the Southeast is still dealing with lingering rain and flood risk, a reminder to secure outdoor items and keep emergency alerts on. Local Climate Reality Check: South Carolina’s astronomical summer starts today at the summer solstice, with over 14 hours of daylight—then temperatures typically keep climbing for weeks. Gullah Geechee Land Threats: On Hilton Head and St. Helena Island, unclear titles and surging taxes are pushing Gullah Geechee families off ancestral land, while community groups and legal aid try to keep property in family hands. Exotic Wildlife Oversight: A sloth exhibitor shut down by New York is trying to relaunch in Florida, spotlighting concerns about weak enforcement for exotic animal exhibitors. Road Work: SCDOT lane closures are planned on Pickens Street near USC for pavement repairs, with detours in place.

Water Quality & Public Health: After heavy rains, Columbia saw bacteria levels high enough to trigger temporary swimming warnings on major rivers, a pattern Congaree Riverkeeper says can hit the Congaree, Broad and Saluda—and also South Carolina’s beaches and tidal waters—when stormwater runoff and possible sewer spills push germs into waterways. Extreme Weather: Tropical Storm Arthur’s remnants are still driving flooding risk and dangerous downpours across the Southeast, with officials warning that saturated ground can turn storms into flash-flood threats. Coastal Safety: With summer beach season underway, health officials and local groups are flagging that swimming right after rain can be riskier, especially in muddy water or areas under advisories. Invasive Species: South Carolina is dealing with the emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle that spreads through infested firewood and can kill ash trees fast—prompting continued emphasis on using local, certified firewood. Fisheries Management: South Carolina’s planned summer red snapper pilot season in federal waters is on hold after a federal injunction suspended similar permits, pushing the state toward a revised fall plan while state waters remain open year-round with limits. Local Infrastructure: SCDOT lane closures are scheduled on Pickens Street in Columbia for pavement repairs, with detours and worker-safety reminders for drivers.

Storm Aftermath & Flood Risk: Tropical Storm Arthur’s remnants are still bringing life-threatening flood risk across the Southeast, with heavy rain and tornado threats lingering into the weekend. Hurricane Prep: South Carolina residents are being urged to check hurricane supply kits and secure outdoor items as the early-season reminder shows storms don’t need a direct landfall to hit. Road & Repair Impacts: SCDOT plans lane closures on Pickens Street near USC for pavement repairs, with detours and work running June 22 and June 23–24. Drought Watch: Even with some rain from Arthur, parts of the Carolinas remain in drought conditions, and water managers are watching deficits closely through summer. Invasive Pest Alert: A South Carolina invasive pest is attacking trees, highlighting the need for protections like using certified firewood to slow spread. Data Center Water Concerns: El Niño warnings are colliding with the data center boom, raising new worries about water supplies as facilities expand. Local Jobs & Industry: Venom EV announced a Summerville facility, promising new manufacturing and distribution jobs in Dorchester County. Wildlife & Health: A CDC update shows measles spread across many states, underscoring the importance of vaccination as outbreaks continue.

Invasive Species Alert (South Carolina): An invasive pest tied to the spread of emerald ash borer is damaging trees across the state, with guidance reminding residents to avoid moving untreated firewood that can carry pests. Extreme Weather & Flood Risk: Tropical Storm Arthur’s remnants have brought life-threatening flooding across the South, with NOAA describing “1-in-200-year” rainfall in parts of the region and warnings that even a few inches of fast water can be dangerous. Drought Update (SC): Some areas of South Carolina are still dealing with drought and rainfall deficits, though Arthur’s remnants delivered some relief—helping narrow deficits in parts of the state. Public Health: The CDC reports measles has spread to 41 states and caused three deaths, underscoring how close the U.S. is to losing elimination status. Local Environment & Wildlife: Crews responded to a combative swimmer on the SC coast, and in Moncks Corner an alligator was safely secured after showing up on a front porch. Clean Water & Environment: Aiken County officials urged a utility planning a 115-kilovolt transmission line to consider co-locating along existing rights-of-way and to expand public input. Community & Agriculture: SEPC launched its 2026 Next Generation Leadership Academy with Clemson-based training focused on plant and environmental sciences. EV Manufacturing (SC): Venom EV announced a new manufacturing and distribution facility in Summerville, bringing new jobs to Dorchester County.

Severe Weather & Drought Watch: South Carolina saw a broad, mostly beneficial rain shield after Tropical Storm Arthur, with the worst thunderstorm activity staying near the coast; meanwhile, drought remains a concern in parts of the Carolinas as rainfall deficits linger. Flood Risk From Arthur’s Remnants: The storm’s aftermath kept the Southeast on alert for life-threatening flash flooding, with the National Weather Service warning that just a few inches of fast-moving water can be dangerous. Plastic Pollution Lawsuit: Congaree Riverkeeper sued a plant after allegedly finding 10,000+ plastic pellets in the Congaree River, alleging unpermitted toxic discharges and harm to aquatic life. Local Wildlife Encounters: Berkeley County reported an alligator “posted up” on a Moncks Corner front porch, later secured and relocated with help from SCDNR. Clean Energy & Jobs: Venom EV plans a 200,000-square-foot manufacturing and distribution facility in Summerville, aiming to create 60 jobs. Water & Infrastructure: Aiken County Council urged Central Electric Power Cooperative to use existing rights-of-way and expand public input as it weighs a proposed transmission line. Community & Climate Resilience: Francis Marion University extended President Fred Carter’s contract and honored a longtime faculty member at its Ecuador biological station—supporting ongoing environmental research.

Severe Weather Watch: South Carolina is bracing for heavy rain and gusty winds as remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur move through, with flood risk and strong-to-severe storm potential highest overnight into early morning. Heat & Safety: Local officials are also pushing reminders to prevent hot-car tragedies—check the back seat every time, especially for small children and pets. Water & Drought: North Carolina drought conditions are worsening, with exceptional drought expanding to 10 counties and water systems urged to follow shortage plans—an early warning for the region’s water stress. Local Environment & Community: Monrovia Cemetery in Charleston was restored after years of flooding and neglect, including raised grounds, repaired headstones, and a weather-resistant fence. Policy & Health: A new liquor liability law is driving some South Carolina bars to close or face unaffordable insurance costs, threatening small local businesses.

Extreme Weather Watch: Post-tropical Cyclone Arthur is still pushing dangerous rain and flooding risk into the Southeast, with South Carolina bracing for heavy downpours overnight into Friday, plus damaging winds and a small tornado risk. Urban Heat Response: Columbia Green and the City of Columbia are hosting “Beat the Heat—Plant a Tree” on June 27, offering free shade trees and hands-on guidance to cool neighborhoods and cut heat impacts. Wildlife Encounters: A too-large alligator on a Moncks Corner porch was handled by wildlife officials after deputies said they can’t legally touch animals over a certain size. Water & Infrastructure: SCDOT plans bridge repairs with a closure of Parris Bridge Road over the Pacolet River in Spartanburg County, and also has SC 160 interchange work in York County with intersection closures. Drought Update: Central North Carolina’s drought worsened, with 10 counties now in “exceptional” drought, urging water systems to follow shortage plans. Community Recycling for Health: North Myrtle Beach is collecting aluminum cans at the recycling center to support the South Carolina Burned Children’s Fund.

Tropical Storm Arthur Watch: The first named storm of the Atlantic season, Arthur, is moving inland and could bring heavy rain, flash-flood risk, and tornado threats across parts of the Southeast, including South Carolina. Road & Traffic Impacts: SCDOT will start SC 160 interchange improvements over I-77 in York County June 21, closing key intersections until June 28 (weather dependent). Local Construction Bids: Bellefonte Borough Council approved contracts totaling about $925,000 for the Talleyrand Stage project, with some members raising concerns about water-supply and restroom maintenance responsibilities. Water & Wildlife Safety: A Berkeley County homeowner reported a rogue alligator on a porch; DNR and animal control helped relocate it to a safer setting. Environmental Justice in the Courts: A federal judge ordered the National Park Service to restore removed exhibits tied to slavery and climate change, setting up a major legal fight. Waste & Recycling Expansion: TPG plans to buy Waste Eliminator and Liberty Waste Solutions, aiming to expand landfill diversion, recycling, and composting capacity across the Southeast. Upstate Conservation Storytelling: Upstate Forever received a grant to use drones and new imaging tools to better communicate land and water protection efforts.

Hurricane Watch: Tropical Storm Arthur has formed in the Gulf, and South Carolina should brace for heavy rain, gusty winds, and dangerous rip currents as the system’s moisture pushes inland. Flood Risk Forecast: Forecasters warn the biggest threat is Thursday evening into Friday, with widespread showers and thunderstorms possible across much of the state. Coastal Resilience: Isle of Palms is moving ahead with a major beach renourishment project after state approval, aiming to add about 2.5 million cubic yards of sand and protect public access. Environmental Justice Court Win: A federal judge in South Carolina ruled the Trump administration’s cancellation of environmental justice grants was “illegal,” dealing a blow to efforts to unwind a Biden-era pollution and climate-risk program. Wildlife & Land Use: Rural landowners are pressing South Carolina’s wildlife agency to tighten rules on deer-hunting dogs that trespass onto private property. Habitat Funding: The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation awarded $20 million to restore longleaf pine habitat across nine southern states, including work to expand prescribed fire. Invasive Species Alert: Officials are racing to stop spread of invasive tegu lizards, which can raid eggs and disrupt local ecosystems.

Heat & Storm Watch: Potential Tropical Cyclone One is expected to weaken but may become Tropical Storm Arthur, with rain and flooding risks for the Southeast and possible impacts for the Carolinas. Public Health Alert: SCDPH confirmed a rabid fox in Greenwood County; one person was exposed and should contact a healthcare provider, and residents are urged to avoid contact with wildlife and keep pets vaccinated. Water & Health Policy Fight: Republican AGs, including South Carolina’s, are urging EPA to study whether the abortion drug mifepristone contaminates waterways and should be added to the drinking-water contaminant list. Coastal Plastic Push: Beaufort County Council adopted a revised single-use plastic ordinance, targeting plastic bags, polystyrene foam, and moving straws/cutlery to a by-request model. Local Growth & Access: Roper St. Francis is expanding care in fast-growing Dorchester/Berkeley counties, adding a new pavilion to improve access. Energy Education: Duke Energy’s Oconee Nuclear Station is hosting free “Wednesdays at World Energy” summer events focused on energy, innovation, and the environment. Tech for Commuters: A Lady’s Island developer’s app alerts drivers when the Woods Memorial Bridge opens, aiming to cut down on traffic delays.

Heat & Storm Watch: A Gulf storm system has been labeled “Potential Tropical Cyclone One,” with the Carolinas’ impacts hinging on the track—expect rain and a flooding risk even if winds stay below tropical-storm strength. Invasive Species Alert: Portuguese man o’ wars are washing ashore on South Carolina beaches; they look like jellyfish but can sting painfully (and sometimes dangerously) even after they’re stranded. Water & Climate Funding: A federal judge ruled the Trump administration acted unlawfully in ending the Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grant Program, a decision that could affect climate resilience work tied to communities across the country. Local Jobs & Industry: AmbioPharm is expanding in Aiken County with a modular manufacturing building and plans for 200+ new jobs, with operations targeted for late 2027. Local Governance & Power Use: Spartanburg County is moving toward a moratorium on new data centers amid concerns about massive power and water demands. Public Health Policy: South Carolina is among states pushing the EPA to regulate the abortion pill mifepristone as a water contaminant. Wildlife & Community: SPCA Albrecht Center is joining the statewide “Pick Me! SC” adoption push, aiming to find homes for dozens of animals during the summer surge. Food & Health: New reporting says synthetic dyes show up in nearly 1 in 5 packaged foods, with a federal voluntary phase-out facing hurdles.

Extreme Heat & Public Safety: South Carolina logged its first heat-related death of 2026, with officials urging hydration and cooling-center use as temperatures and heat indexes push into dangerous territory. Water Quality Funding: The S.C. Department of Environmental Services is accepting grant applications (through Aug. 14) for watershed projects that cut nonpoint source pollution and improve rivers, lakes, streams, wetlands, and coastal waters. Energy & Climate Policy: The S.C. Public Service Commission finalized approval for the Canadys Gas Plant, drawing sharp criticism for lacking cost caps and protections for the ecologically important ACE Basin. Legal Climate Fight: A federal judge ruled the EPA illegally terminated environmental justice grants, a decision that could affect $20 million in funding tied to the Walker River Paiute Tribe. Invasive Species Alert: Officials are warning about toxic, invasive hammerhead worms that threaten native earthworms and are spreading. Wildlife Health: A rabid raccoon was confirmed in Neeses; three people were exposed and a dog will be quarantined, with guidance to avoid contact with wildlife. Local Infrastructure: An I-385 bridge crossing in Greenville is closing for rehabilitation, with detours in place.