Richland County has contracted with the Clemson Institute for Economic and Community Development to facilitate the development of a strategic plan for the Gills Creek Watershed.Gills Creek and its feeder systems create a 70 mile watershed that runs from northeast Columbia including the new developments at Sandhill through Arcadia Lakes, Forest Lake, Lake Katherine and down to the Congaree River. Contamination causing excessive levels of bacteria and/or low oxygen levels has resulted in DHEC advisories in several areas.

Storm water run-off and naturally occurring streams and creeks from Sherwood Forest form a part of this watershed.

The plan may address such issues as accessible green space, improved water flow and tighter construction regulations.

Public input is being sought as part of this process and three public meetings have been scheduled. At these meetings, stakeholders will have the opportunity to identify what they feel are the most critical issues and to participate in prioritizing those issues. Each meeting will begin with an explanation of the process, a short presentation on the watershed and its importance and facilitated small group sessions. Issues identified in the small group sessions will be prioritized by the stakeholders participating in the meeting.

The next meeting will be held at 7pm April 19, 2007 at Rosewood Elementary School, 3300 Rosewood Drive. The meeting will take place in the auditorium.

Results of these public meetings will provided to the Steering Committee who will develop the strategic plan consisting of goals, objectives and action steps. Funding will be sought to implement the plan from a variety of sources.

For more information, contact Stan Perry, Assistant Director Innovation Center, Clemson Institute for Economic and Community Development, 803-528-9892, Perry8@CLEMSON.EDU