Aquatic Science | South Carolina Department of Environmental Services

Aquatic Science is a Division of the SCDES Bureau of Water. The Division strives to use evolving science and emerging information. We ensure the right data and the best management techniques are available to keep South Carolina’s waters safe, healthy, and accessible for the many uses of these resources including recreation, drinking, and agriculture.

South Carolina’s population is growing rapidly, which places increasing demands on the State’s natural resources. These pressures pose new challenges for water quality and present more pathways for human and wildlife exposure to aquatic health hazards. Aquatic Science data and resource management are critical to ensure that the demands on aquatic resources are met while humans and wildlife are protected.

The Aquatic Science team conducts year-round sampling and resource management across South Carolina. The Division continually strives to improve water quality monitoring programs by producing high-quality data and tools that clearly and easily communicate information to the public. Specifically, Aquatic Science data helps identify trends in water quality and emerging water quality concerns, supports planning for industrial and municipal wastewater permits, and determines if waterways are meeting state water quality standards.

Collage of images depicting algae sampling, water quality testing, aquatic invasive plants, and electrofishing

Priorities for the Aquatic Science Division are:

Managing the statewide SCDES ambient water quality monitoring network
Controlling the spread of invasive aquatic plants
Monitoring water quality to support commercial and recreational shellfish harvesting
Identifying and investigating harmful algal blooms in State lakes
Promulgating and maintaining fish consumption advisories
Monitoring bacteria levels and issues advisories for South Carolina beaches
Conducting benthic macroinvertebrates and special (targeted) assessments in freshwater streams

On this page you can find technical documents, special study reports, and standard operating procedures for the Aquatic Science Division, some in collaboration with outside partners. The links on the left side of the page provide detailed information on specific Aquatic Science programs and initiatives.