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Resident warns council of growing algae on Lake Wateree and possible long‑term impacts
Summary
A Fairfield County resident told council that a Clemson researcher warned of a possible 10‑year window before algae could dominate Lake Wateree; the commenter urged the council to keep the issue in mind during budget decisions because of potential recreational and economic impacts.
A Fairfield County resident on April 28 urged the council to keep lake algae on its radar, saying a Clemson University researcher had warned the lake could be at risk of severe algal growth within about 10 years if conditions persist.
Scott Hunsinger, who said he lives on the lake and has followed past association briefings, told the council the recent survey found extensive algal growth and that a Clemson PhD advised the community it could take roughly 10 years for algae to become a pervasive problem if not addressed.
Hunsinger said the algae can kill fish and dogs and can irritate humans. He described potential economic consequences if the lake becomes unusable for recreation, including impacts on bass tournaments, launch usage and tourism that supports local gas stations, campgrounds and short‑term rentals.
“I just want to bring this to your attention to make sure that it stays top of mind,” Hunsinger told the council, and he urged officials to consider the issue as they finalize budgets.
Hunsinger cited a 2024 figure of 21 bass tournaments held on the lake during a year when water levels were down and listed local launch points by name; he said he had not independently compiled detailed economic numbers and that those figures were not part of his formal presentation.
Council members did not take action on the issue during the meeting; Hunsinger’s remarks were recorded during the public comment period.
