OCRM provides technical expertise and guidance to a variety of special projects and initiatives. We actively seek opportunities to work with local governments and citizens to encourage responsible development and preservation of our coastal resources.

Shoreline Change Initiative

In 2007, DHEC-OCRM initiated a Shoreline Change Initiative to organize existing data collection and research efforts, identify additional research needs, and formulate policy options to guide the management of South Carolina’s estuarine and beachfront shorelines.

Council On Coastal Futures

In November 2002, the Board of the Department of Health and Environmental Control appointed the 19 members of the Council on Coastal Futures as an ad hoc advisory committee. The Board charged the council with documenting priority issues and concerns and recommending actions, programs and measures to improve the effectiveness of the South Carolina Coastal Zone Management Program.

Marine Debris Initiative

OCRM is leading a coastwide initiative to remove abandoned vessels and organize existing litter removal efforts into a comprehenive plan. The Marine Debris Initiative seeks to leverage public and private support to keep South Carolina's coastal waterways and beaches clean, safe and healthy. This program area includes the Adopt-A-Beach program and abandoned vessel removal.

Clean Marinas

The South Carolina Clean Marina Program provides a unique opportunity for marina owners and operators to improve their customer services, protect water quality and be recognized for their efforts

Water Quality

OCRM's Coastal Nonpoint Source Program is designed to assess the condition of the state's estuarine habitats and associated biological resources by integrating numerous measures of water quality, sediment quality, and biotic condition throughout the state's Coastal Zone. OCRM also provides funding and technical assistance to local governments, other agencies and private partners to improve water quality in the Coastal Zone.

Applied Technology

OCRM implements a number of technical tools and services throughout the Coastal Zone to monitor and improve water quality, protect our coastal resources, and improve our quality of life.

Grant Opportunities

OCRM offers direct funding opportunities for local governments, public schools and other entities to implement creative projects to improve water quality and management of the Coastal Zone

In Your Community

Find out how to get involved in OCRM programs right in your own community!

Workshops

OCRM provides workshops and educational presentations on several topics related to coastal zone management. Topics include stormwater management, cultural resources, low impact development and an accredited workshop for Real Estate professionals on state laws and regulations.