BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — With Memorial Day Weekend marking the unofficial start of South Carolina’s summer boating season, state wildlife officers will be stationed at a Berkeley County boat landing to conduct courtesy safety inspections aimed at preventing accidents on crowded waterways.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Law Enforcement Division announced it will perform complimentary safety checks at Amos Gourdine/Russellville Landing on Sunday, May 24, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The inspections come as Lake Moultrie and surrounding waterways prepare for one of the busiest weekends of the year — a time when boating traffic, alcohol use, and inexperienced operators often combine to create dangerous conditions.
What Officers Will Be Checking
SCDNR says the inspections will be quick but thorough, focusing on:
- Required safety equipment
- Proper boat and motor registration
- Life jackets and flotation devices
- Fire extinguishers
- Navigation lights
Boaters who are missing required equipment or have registration issues will not receive tickets during the courtesy checks. Instead, they’ll be given the chance to correct the problem before launching.
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Officers will also be available to answer questions and offer safety tips, including how to file a float plan and what to do in an emergency.
Why It Matters for Berkeley County
Lake Moultrie consistently ranks among the state’s most heavily used recreational lakes, drawing boaters from Moncks Corner, Bonneau, Cross, and beyond. Holiday weekends often see a spike in calls for reckless operation, collisions, and boating under the influence.
SCDNR encourages residents to report dangerous behavior — including intoxicated operators — by calling the agency’s 24‑hour hotline at 1‑800‑922‑5431 or dialing #DNR on a cell phone.
More Resources for Local Boaters
Residents can access South Carolina’s full boating regulations, safety course information, and free float plan forms by contacting SCDNR’s boating safety office at 1‑800‑277‑4301 or visiting http://www.dnr.sc.gov/education/boated.html.
As thousands prepare to head onto Berkeley County waters this weekend, officials say the goal is simple: keep the holiday fun — and keep everyone safe.
