SCDNR Seeks Public Input to Help Shape Ashley Scenic River Management Plan

September 22, 2026

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and the Ashley Scenic River Advisory Council are asking for public input to help develop a revised management plan for the Ashley Scenic River. The public is invited to share opinions and information regarding the river’s management needs through an online public survey.

The Ashley River was designated as a state scenic river in 1998 in recognition of its historic and cultural values of national and regional significance, as well as its recreational and wildlife habitat values to the Charleston metropolitan area. The designation includes a 22-mile section of the Ashley River extending from the Highway 17-A bridge to the I-526 bridge crossing of the river. The scenic river management plan serves as a guide to protection and improvement of the river and its resources.

The public survey will gather data and opinions from citizens who use and enjoy the river and will help define issues to be addressed in the management plan. Input from citizens will enable SCDNR and the advisory council to identify what people value most about the river, as well as the related challenges, opportunities and priorities for its future protection and management. Citizen input will help ensure the management plan reflects community interests and concerns when promoting partnerships, supporting policies and encouraging actions to protect and enhance it.

The survey is online and open to the public through Oct. 31, 2026, accessible at www.surveymonkey.com/r/AshleyRiver.

To learn more, visit www.dnr.sc.gov/water/river or contact SCDNR Program Manager Bill Marshall at (803) 734-9096 or marshallb@dnr.sc.gov.