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SCDNR News

SCDNR Director Highlights South Carolina’s Coastal Leadership in Galápagos Keynote

October 2, 2025

San Cristóbal, Galápagos Islands – Dr. Tom Mullikin, Director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), delivered the keynote presentation at the International Seminar on Natural Resources and Coastal Futures, hosted by Escuela Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí, Manuel Félix López (ESPAM-MFL), on Tuesday, September 30th.

The international forum convened officials, students, educators, and environmental professionals to exchange knowledge and foster collaboration on pressing coastal conservation challenges.

Invited as a master lecturer, Dr. Mullikin highlighted South Carolina’s comprehensive efforts to address coastal erosion and the impacts of extreme weather events. He presented case studies on shoreline restoration, floodwater management, and resilience strategies currently being implemented along South Carolina’s coast.

"Our coastal regions, whether in South Carolina or the Galápagos, face similar threats from erosion, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events," said Dr. Mullikin. "Through collaborative research, education, and innovative restoration initiatives, we can strengthen the resilience of our coastal ecosystems while safeguarding the communities that depend on them."

As Director of SCDNR and former Chair of the South Carolina Floodwater Commission, Dr. Mullikin has spearheaded statewide initiatives to mitigate coastal erosion, restore natural barriers, and adapt infrastructure to future sea-level rise. Signature projects include:

  • Living Shorelines: Using oyster shells and marsh grasses to stabilize eroding coastlines while enhancing habitat for marine life.
  • Oyster Reef Restoration: Rebuilding reefs that filter water, reduce wave energy, and provide ecological benefits for estuarine environments.
  • Dune Stabilization: Protecting barrier islands and beaches through vegetation planting and dune enhancement to create natural storm surge defenses.
  • Floodwater Management Innovations: Developing strategies to capture and redirect floodwaters inland to reduce coastal flooding risks

In establishing the Floodwater Commission, Governor Henry McMaster emphasized the urgency of addressing flood risks statewide, noting that South Carolina has repeatedly experienced damaging coastal and inland flooding from storms, heavy rains, and tides. His directive called for comprehensive strategies to protect communities, infrastructure, and natural resources, with special emphasis on vulnerable coastal and riverine areas.

ESPAM-MFL highlighted its commitment to environmental education and sustainability, noting that it was inspired by South Carolina’s restoration policies, community engagement, and leadership in climate adaptation.

Dr. Mullikin’s keynote underscored the value of expanding South Carolina’s conservation partnerships globally, connecting the state’s shoreline protection and floodwater management expertise with counterparts facing similar challenges. The forum concluded with a call for continued collaboration between Ecuadorian institutions and international leaders to protect fragile coastal and marine environments for future generations.