Frequently Asked Questions: Why Counties Should Support the Lake Wateree Lyngbya Mitigation Effort
Q: What is the Lake Wateree Lyngbya Algae Project?
A: The Lake Wateree Association (LWA), in partnership with the Catawba-Wateree Water Management Group (CWWMG), Duke Energy, and other stakeholders, is leading an effort to address the growing threat of Lyngbya algae—a toxic and invasive species that harms water quality, public health, recreation, and property values.
Q: What are counties being asked to contribute?
A: Each county bordering Lake Wateree is being asked to contribute $30,000 toward the collaborative mitigation and treatment plan. All administrative support will be provided by CWWMG, LWA, Duke, and the treatment administrator.
Q: What value does a $30,000 county contribution return?
A: A $30,000 investment yields more than $250,000 in direct and in-kind benefits, including:
Q: Is Lake Wateree Association (LWA) a government-funded group?
A: No. Unlike Lake Norman and Lake Wylie, which benefit from county-funded marine commissions, LWA is entirely volunteer-run and funded through private donations from residents and lake users. Yet LWA provides services on par with publicly funded bodies.
Q: Why is county participation important now?
A: Without visible support from Kershaw and Fairfield, the HEP grant application is weakened, and future funding from state and private sources may be jeopardized. Other stakeholders are watching these counties to decide whether or not to commit.
Q: What happens if the algae is not addressed?
A: Unchecked Lyngbya growth threatens:
Q: What’s the bottom line?
A: A one-time $30,000 county investment unlocks over $250,000 in value for environmental health, economic stability, and public benefit—a more than 8:1 return that supports clean water, responsible stewardship, and long-term savings.