Clemson University is promoting sustainability through a series of educational programs designed to insight conversation and thought- provoking analysis of environmental topics. The Center for Watershed Excellence on campus has initiated various outreach and educational programs that support the development and implementation of community-based, cost-effective watershed management programs.
The ‘Carolina Clear’ program was developed to inform and educate South Carolina communities about water quality, water quantity and the cumulative effects of storm water. The water resources conference coordinated by Clemson University’s Institute of Computational Ecology in partnership with the Center for Watershed Excellence provides an open forum to discuss such topics in addition to current water policies, research projects and water management in the state. Held every other year, the 2016 conference will be held in October and will provide an integrated forum for discussion of all things ‘water’ in order to prepare for and meet the growing challenge of providing water resources to sustain and grow South Carolina’s economy, while preserving natural resources.
Another initiative delves into the concept of waterways. This resource challenges and educates on the topic of Floating Wetlands. Floating wetlands are essentially container gardens that float on the surface of ponds and lakes. Using flowering plants that are native to South Carolina’s wetlands. Floating wetlands have the unique ability to manage water pollution and improve the appearance of the waterbody. As a result, they have a monumental potential for use in residential storm water ponds which are managed not only to protect water quality but also to be attractive landscape features that enhance property values in the community. Floating wetlands can help manage excessive weed growth, algae blooms, and fish kills all the while adding value to the community by improving the look of ponds.
