News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources organized a paddle event on Lynches River, emphasizing conservation and the river’s ecological importance. SCDNR Director Dr. Tom Mullikin led the initiative, aiming to engage the community in stewardship efforts. This event supports the SC7 expedition, which connects communities to outdoor experiences that highlight the need for resource protection.
Efforts to Promote Conservation at Lynches River Paddle Event in South Carolina
Florence, SC – On July 19, 2025, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) organized a paddle and conservation event along the Lynches River to raise awareness about the significance of this vital waterway. The initiative was led by SCDNR director Dr. Tom Mullikin, who was joined by SCDNR Board Member Jerry Lee and Senator Mike Reichenbach. This event is part of the larger South Carolina 7 (SC7) expedition, which aims to connect communities with the outdoors while emphasizing the need to protect natural resources.
The Lynches River, a prominent blackwater tributary of the Great Pee Dee River, traverses through Florence, Darlington, and Lee counties. This river is celebrated for its ecological, cultural, and historical importance, as well as its stunning scenery and biodiversity. Designated as a South Carolina State Scenic River, it plays a crucial role in providing regional flood resilience. During the paddle event, Dr. Mullikin referred to the river as a “lifeline” for local wildlife and a significant part of the area’s culture and history.
The primary objective of the paddle event was to engage community members in conservation efforts and to raise awareness about the importance of watershed stewardship. Throughout the event, Senator Mike Reichenbach highlighted the value of outdoor experiences in fostering environmental awareness and encouraging long-term stewardship of the state’s natural resources.
About the South Carolina 7 (SC7) Expedition
SC7 is a collaborative program that includes Global Eco Adventures and the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor. It aims to encourage exploration of the state’s diverse landscapes, underscoring the importance of hands-on outdoor experiences in preserving the environment. The SC7 initiative leverages the beauty of South Carolina’s natural resources to advocate for their conservation and responsible use.
The Lynches River: A Critical Ecosystem
Stretching nearly 100 miles, the Lynches River features a variety of ecosystems, including pine uplands and blackwater swamps. Its floodplain serves essential functions, such as natural water storage and storm buffering, making it vital for community preparedness against extreme weather events. Additionally, the river is home to several historical sites, including battlegrounds from the Revolutionary War located at Snow’s Island.
In addition to providing ecological benefits, the Lynches River serves as an important recreational resource for the communities it flows through. The SCDNR’s paddle event is just one of many efforts aimed at promoting outdoor activities that foster an appreciation for the environment. Participants were encouraged to not only enjoy the river’s beauty but also to advocate for its protection through sustainable practices.
Community Engagement and Support
The event was supported by local law enforcement, which ensured safety throughout the paddle excursion, as well as River Rats Canoe & Kayak Rental, which provided assistance for participants. These collaborations highlight the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts and emphasize a shared responsibility for preserving South Carolina’s natural treasures.
The SCDNR’s broader conservation strategy focuses on watershed protection, including floodwater prevention and resilience. The paddle event aligns with this strategy, aiming to instill a sense of ownership among community members regarding their natural resources.
Conclusion
The Lynches River paddle event exemplifies the ongoing efforts in South Carolina to promote environmental awareness and conservation through active community engagement. As local organizations and leaders come together to celebrate and protect such vital resources, the initiative contributes significantly to fostering appreciation and stewardship of South Carolina’s natural heritage.
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Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
