Volunteer cleanup of forest a huge success

Plans set to make Francis Marion trash collection an annual February event

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service, PalmettoPride and more than 150 multi-county volunteers teamed up to collect more than 33 tons of trash during the Francis Marion National Forest cleanup on Feb. 2.

Due to the success of the cleanup, PalmettoPride and the Forest Service have decided to make this cleanup an annual event the first Saturday of each February.

Three boats and entire households of furniture and appliances contributed to the debris collected at illegal dumpsites throughout the forest. Fortunately, much of the litter is traceable and four illegal dumping cases are being investigated.

Illegal dumping of waste more than 500 pounds is punishable up to one year in jail and or a fine up to $1,087. Authorities may also confiscate any vehicles and equipment used in dumping. Illegal dumpers can also be sentenced to remove litter and repair damage in addition to performing public service work.

Orlando Sutton, Francis Marion National Forest district ranger, plans to place cameras at illegal dumpsites to aid in the prosecution of illegal dumpers and to prevent future littering.

"We are encouraged by the results of the cleanup and it has motivated us to take the next step to stop to illegal dumping," Sutton said according to a press release. "The more concrete information we have of this problem on our forest, the more we can do to stop it. Increasing enforcement, pickup and public awareness efforts are essential."

Both Charleston and Berkeley County solid waste and recycling departments provided trucks, roll-offs and assistance at convenience centers. Fennell Container Co. donated roll-off containers on-site.

The cleanup also received help from sponsors who provided food and supplies: Carolina Pride, Coca Cola, DERST Baking Co., Fennell Container Co., Piggly Wiggly, Sewee Association and Wal-Mart. Local organizations who provided volunteers for the clean up also were essential: Boy Scouts of America, Keep Charleston Beautiful, Nature Adventure Outfitters and the Palmetto Jeep Club.

To participate in future cleanups or for more information regarding the Francis Marion National Forest, contact Janna Dupre at 843-928-3368.