Saltwater Fish: Is Myrtle Beach Polluted?

Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its warm waters, gorgeous sands, and unique attractions. The beach spans 60 miles along the Grand Strand and offers plenty of spots for saltwater fishing. However, concerns have been raised about the water quality of Myrtle Beach, with reports of pollution and potentially unsafe bacteria counts. While the city of Myrtle Beach regularly checks the water for high bacteria levels and the water is generally considered safe for swimming and wading, it is important to be aware of any posted swim advisories or warnings, especially after heavy rainfall, as stormwater runoff can temporarily increase bacteria counts.

Bacteria levels in the water

The City of Myrtle Beach and its 60+ miles of beaches are regularly checked for high bacteria levels. While the beaches are generally clean and safe, bacteria levels occasionally exceed federal standards. This usually occurs due to stormwater runoff, which can carry toxins and human waste into the ocean. Rainfall can also cause temporary increases in bacteria levels.

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) performs water quality tests on 120 locations along South Carolina's beaches from May 1 to October 1. They test many areas in the Myrtle Beach area each week, and Coastal Carolina University (CCU) also performs weekly water quality tests. DHEC officials typically test the water once a week; however, when ETCOC (a type of fecal coliform) levels test higher than normal, they issue a temporary no-swimming advisory and begin testing the water daily until bacteria levels return to normal.

In 2022, Myrtle Beach accounted for 53% of South Carolina's long-term alerts, and 11 test sites along Myrtle Beach were under long-term advisories. However, it's important to note that these advisories do not mean the beach is closed or that swimming is prohibited. They serve as a warning, especially for young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems or open wounds.

According to John Rumpler, the clean water director and senior attorney of a nonprofit, Myrtle Beach surpassed the threshold for potentially unsafe bacteria counts 82% of the time under the Beach Action Value. However, Mark Kruea, the city spokesperson, argued that a high sample taken from a small section of the beach should not reflect on the entire beach. He questioned the assumptions made by declaring a "bad day" for the whole beach based on a single sample.

While the water quality at Myrtle Beach may occasionally have elevated bacteria levels, it is important to follow the advisories and take precautions to ensure a safe swimming experience. The city and relevant departments are committed to testing and maintaining water quality to protect the health of residents and tourists.

Fecal pollution

Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination, with 60 miles of beaches along the Grand Strand, warm waters, and tropical weather. The City of Myrtle Beach claims that its oceanfront is clean and safe, and the beach and ocean are its most precious and important natural resources.

However, a report by a national nonprofit, the Environment America Research & Policy Center, has raised concerns about water quality. The report found that on 61 out of 74 days of testing, the pollution levels in the ocean water at Myrtle Beach were high enough to potentially cause health issues for swimmers, including rashes, infections, and gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases. The study specifically cited fecal pollution, indicating high levels of human and animal waste that can be harmful to people who come into contact with it.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and local officials have disputed these findings, arguing that the study's standard for safe water is too stringent. They claim that when the appropriate standard, set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is applied, the number of unsafe swimming days at Myrtle Beach is significantly lower. DHEC issues warnings at 104 colony-forming units (cfu) per 100 milliliters, and the EPA's threshold for requiring advisories is 110 cfu.

The City of Myrtle Beach regularly monitors bacteria levels in the water and claims that federal standards for water quality are met 98% of the time. While stormwater runoff can occasionally cause above-average bacteria levels, these elevated levels are typically temporary, and the water quality returns to normal within 24 to 72 hours.

Swimmers are advised to avoid swimming within 200 feet of stormwater outfalls and to check for posted swim advisories, especially after heavy rainfall, which can increase bacteria counts. Overall, the water quality at Myrtle Beach is generally considered safe for swimming and wading, and the beach remains a popular destination for tourists and anglers alike.

Stormwater runoff

The City of Myrtle Beach has invested in stormwater drainage infrastructure to tackle this issue, constructing new and improved outfalls to divert stormwater runoff from the beach and prevent pollution where tourists swim. Each outfall project includes the installation of underground pipes that carry stormwater runoff more than 1,000 feet offshore, where it is diluted by the sun and saltwater. These projects have eliminated the need for above-ground pipes that once ran across the beach, emptying stormwater directly into the ocean.

Since 2002, the city has completed five outfalls and removed more than 20 drainage pipes from the beach, with a further seven outfalls planned by 2052. These projects are costly, with a price tag of nearly $150 million, and the city has struggled to secure federal assistance. However, the efforts have been recognised by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which acknowledged the City of Myrtle Beach for its Fourth Avenue North Deepwater Ocean Outfall Project.

The stormwater runoff can cause a temporary increase in bacteria levels in the water, which is why swimming is not advised within 200 feet of a stormwater outfall. Water quality testing occurs twice a week during the summer, and results are posted on the SCDES's Beach Access Guide. Within 24 to 72 hours of a rainstorm, water quality levels typically return to normal, meeting state guidelines.

Water clarity

The City of Myrtle Beach actively monitors the water quality of its 60-plus miles of beaches, regularly checking for high bacteria levels. While the beach area boasts beautiful beaches with clean and safe water, occasional above-average bacteria levels have been detected, typically due to stormwater runoff. Stormwater runoff can introduce toxins and human waste into the ocean, impacting water clarity and quality.

According to a report by a national nonprofit, the Environment America Research & Policy Center, swimmers at Myrtle Beach were exposed to elevated pollution levels on 61 out of 74 tested days in a year. These pollution levels were deemed potentially hazardous to health, possibly causing issues such as rashes, infections, and gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases. However, local and state officials disputed the findings, arguing that the study's standard was too stringent and that the number of unsafe swimming days was significantly lower when the appropriate standard was applied.

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) and Coastal Carolina University (CCU) also conduct regular water quality tests to ensure a safe swimming environment. They test numerous locations along South Carolina's beaches, including the Myrtle Beach area, to address any concerns about water clarity and safety.

While the dispute over the level of pollution that poses a threat to swimmers' health continues, it is important to follow safety guidelines. Visitors are advised to avoid swimming within 200 feet of stormwater outfalls and to check for posted advisories after heavy rainfall, as bacteria levels can be temporarily elevated due to runoff.

In summary, the water clarity at Myrtle Beach can be impacted by pollution, particularly stormwater runoff, resulting in elevated bacteria levels. While disputes exist regarding the extent of the hazard, it is essential to adhere to safety recommendations and stay informed about water quality through resources like the SCDES Beach Access Guide and local advisories.

Saltwater fishing licenses

If you're planning to go saltwater fishing in Myrtle Beach, there are a few things you should know about getting a fishing license. Firstly, a saltwater fishing license is required in South Carolina if you plan to fish from the shore or from a non-charted boat. The good news is that if you're fishing from a licensed pier or guide boat, a license is not necessary. So, if you're joining a fishing tour or charter, you may not need to worry about getting a license.

You can obtain a saltwater fishing license from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). The cost of the license may vary depending on your residency status and whether you plan to fish for a day or an entire season. Be sure to have your Social Security Number or Alien Identification Number handy, as this information is required by law to obtain a fishing license in South Carolina. The SCDNR also offers downloadable application forms on their website, making it convenient to apply for your license before your trip.

It's important to note that anyone aged 16 and above will need a license to fish in saltwater. Additionally, if you plan to fish for specific species, such as certain types of saltwater fish, you may need additional permits or tags. These tags must be secured to your fishing device, and you should have them in your possession whenever you're fishing. The SCDNR provides detailed information on their website regarding licensing requirements, so be sure to review their guidelines before casting your line.

When fishing in Myrtle Beach, it's essential to be mindful of the water quality. While the city of Myrtle Beach regularly monitors its 60+ miles of beaches for high bacteria levels, stormwater runoff can sometimes cause temporary elevations in bacteria levels. Although the water is generally safe for swimming and fishing, it's recommended to avoid swimming within 200 feet of stormwater outfalls. These areas can have higher bacteria levels and may not be suitable for swimming, especially for young children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.

In conclusion, obtaining a saltwater fishing license for Myrtle Beach is straightforward. By following the guidelines provided by the SCDNR and being mindful of water quality advisories, you can ensure that your fishing experience in Myrtle Beach is both enjoyable and safe. So, get your license, grab your gear, and get ready to cast your line into the abundant saltwater marshes and estuaries that Myrtle Beach has to offer!

Frequently asked questions