South Carolina Boat Ramps Open

South Carolina governor Henry McMaster announced Thursday that he was issuing an executive order to reopen public boat landings and ramps across the state. The ruling specifies that ramps and associated parking areas can be opened at the discretion of the state department of natural resources.

Guidelines Still In Place

Under the executive order, the managing authority of any ramp can restrict access to the facility if it feels the action is necessary to preserve or protect public health. Social distancing rules remain in place and boats are limited to no more than two people, with the exception of family members from the same household. The number of passengers cannot exceed the boat’s rated capacity.

“If you are out with immediate family or people living with you that is great, but let’s not raft up. This is not the time to go set up on those sandbars and party,” Robert McCullough, an SCDNR spokesman, said in a statement. “There will be time enough for that in the summer. So, right now, we just want everyone to stay safe and enjoy the waterway without causing any health problems.”

Keep Moving

Under the executive order, unless a boat is anchored for fishing, it must remain underway at all times. SCDNR crews will be monitoring the waterways and making sure that boaters follow social-distancing guidelines.

Piers, docks and wharfs remain closed. Public beaches also remain off limits.