Funding the Natural Resource Agencies that Fuel our Economy
Forestry, agriculture, outdoor recreation and tourism are South Carolina’s top economic drivers. Public and private officials estimate that these sectors contribute $50 BILLION and over a quarter million jobs annually. Our natural resource agencies deliver a significant economic return on a relatively small investment of public dollars, yet their combined funding comprises less than 1% of the state budget. Recent cuts threaten their core operations and ability to protect South Carolina’s most important natural assets. For example:
- DNR’s budget was reduced by 41% last year, 75 conservation officer positions have been cut since 2000, and reduced water quality monitoring has put our rivers, lakes, and marine fisheries at risk.
- The Department of Agriculture’s budget was cut 35%, including reduced laboratory and consumer services for inspecting fuel pumps and testing foods, feeds and seeds.
- The Forestry Commission’s budget was reduced over 33% and approximately 40 positions are unfilled. The firefighting equipment budget is depleted, placing property and lives at risk in the event of wildfires.
- Park Recreation and Tourism’s budget was reduced by 49% and 89 jobs are vacant - 18% of the workforce.
We should invest in our state by increasing funding for our natural
resource agencies. It is also important to defend funding for DHEC’s
Environmental Quality Control programs and the Office of Ocean &
Coastal Resources Management. EQC has already lost 78 positions and
the new round of cuts would reduce staffing at OCRM by 28%.
Blessed with incredible natural bounty and beauty, South Carolina's natural resources are essential for economic development and contribute nearly $30 billion and 230,000 jobs to the state's economy, according to a 2009 study. "Underappreciated Assets: The Economic Impact of South Carolina's Natural Resources" by the University of South Carolina Moore School of Business, finds that well- managed natural resources are essential for economic development.