DNR to host forum to hear suggestions from shellfish harvesters
From staff reports

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources is hosting a number of forums to hear suggestions from shellfish harvesters for areas to plant oyster shells during the upcoming planting season, it announced today.

The three-forum series begins today at the Beaufort Department of Health and Environmental Control office, 104 Parker Drive from 4 - 5:30 p.m.

DNR has another planned for 4 - 5:30 p.m. Wednesday in Murrells Inlet at Inlet Affairs Restaurant, 4024 Business 17 and a third from 4 - 5:30 p.m. Thursday in Charleston at the Marine Resources Division Auditorium, 217 Fort Johnson Road.

Shell planting season spans from late spring through the summer months, and DNR anticipates planting around 40,000 bushels of recycled and purchased shells on public grounds this year.

The planting is part of an ongoing project funded by revenue from the Recreational Saltwater Fishing License program to enhance recreational shellfish harvesting opportunities. Since 2000, DNR has planted nearly 171,000 bushels of shells on public grounds, and with the shell recycling program increasing in popularity, DNR hopes to continue planting at increased levels on a yearly basis.

For more information on the coastal forums, call DNR in Charleston at (843) 953-3367.