South Carolina State Parks Shuts Down Favored Hunting Island Boat Access
Hunting Island, SC — One of Beaufort’s popular getaway spots, the Russ Point Boat Launch on St. Helena Island, faces closure. South Carolina State Parks recently announced the shutdown due to dangerously deteriorating road conditions. The move has spurred questions and controversy, with some local residents believing that the county and state may be jeopardizing the future of this cherished locale for boating and kayaking
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Implications for the Local Boating Community
The decision to both surrender maintenance and close Russ Point Landing has perplexed and unnerved residents. Many see it as an abrupt retreat instead of an effort to combat the road’s threats and safeguard an essential public water access. The closure is a cause for concern among locals, especially boaters.
Action from Local Officials
State Senator, Tom Davis, and State Representative, Shannon Erickson have shown keen interest in the issue and were anything but thrilled about the changes. Davis took to social media, assuring residence he’d strive to understand the requirements for keeping Russ Point Landing open. “Hunting Island State Park generates millions of dollars annually for the state,” Davis emphasized, suggesting these revenues should be harnessed for landing’s infrastructural needs.
Meanwhile, Representative Erickson conducted a site visit together with the director of Hunting Island State Park. She identified the most pressing issue as the ‘washout‘ of the road near the boat landing, posing a serious safety risk. Further, she mentioned that she would be seeking solutions from the state Department of Health and Environmental Control’s Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management.
The Road Ahead
The closure of Russ Point Landing is considered a severe blow to the local boating community by many. In the recent past, a sign was put up by the state announcing the upcoming closure due to the deteriorating road conditions. Although necessary, Sam Queen, a spokesperson for SC State Parks, acknowledged this hard decision.
Queen highlighted the continual erosion of the road due to the changing barrier island environment. Given this, the financial burden of maintenance seemed non-sensible. Stressing the fight against tide and rising water levels Queen stated, “We’re fighting a losing battle.”
For a temporary fix of the washed-out part, the recent estimates are around $75,000. However, Queen noted this solution would be ‘temporary,’ suggesting additional funds and resources would be necessary for storm clean-up, erosion control, and daily maintenance.
Unhappy Boaters and Future Plans
The impending closure has not sat well with local boating enthusiasts. Many believe that although owned by the state, “Russ Point is used by all,” and requires better caretaking. Questions about why this issue is being overlooked in a county reliant on boats for transportation, have been raised.
Regardless of the challenges, many in the community are urging officials not to give up this public asset. While it’s up to the state to decide the future of Russ Point Landing, Beaufort locals expect proactive efforts in maintaining this cherished spot.
