Hanahan, S.C., September 27, 2025
News Summary
Residents in Hanahan, S.C. are advised to avoid contact with Goose Creek Reservoir due to an algal bloom. Testing for toxins is underway, but drinking water remains safe. Recreational activities are discouraged in areas with visible algae.
Hanahan, S.C. – Advisory Issued for Goose Creek Reservoir Due to Algal Bloom
The Charleston Water System (CWS) and the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) have issued an advisory urging residents in Hanahan to avoid contact with the Goose Creek Reservoir due to a naturally occurring algal bloom in the waterway. The advisory emphasizes that people and pets should steer clear of the reservoir until further notice.
SCDES is currently testing the water to check for the presence of toxins. However, CWS has stated that the drinking water in the area remains completely safe since the reservoir is not being used as a drinking water source at this time. Despite the reassurance about drinking water safety, health officials are advising against any recreational activities in the reservoir, especially in areas exhibiting discolored water, scum, foam, or algae blooms.
People can become ill from various activities in contaminated water. These activities include swimming, kayaking, fishing, or wading through water that may contain algal toxins. In addition, inhaling droplets from the water or drinking contaminated water can pose health risks. Pets are also at risk if they ingest contaminated water or lick contaminated fur after swimming.
Health officials are actively monitoring the reservoir, following previous observations and sampling of the algal bloom reported on May 2. Initial testing by DHEC indicated that cyanotoxins were not at concerning levels; however, ongoing monthly monitoring is being conducted to ensure safety.
In light of the algal bloom, residents and businesses in the area are being urged to carefully apply fertilizers to minimize rainwater from carrying these substances into the waterway. It is also critical to prevent soil erosion into ditches and creeks that feed into the reservoir.
While not all algae blooms are harmful, caution is advised as some can produce toxic substances that may be harmful to health. Additional information regarding these harmful algal blooms can be found on the SCDES website. CWS, which serves over 500,000 people and provides sewer services to 180,000 people in the Charleston area, is committed to maintaining water safety in the region.
Key Points of the Advisory
- Avoid contact with the Goose Creek Reservoir.
- SCDES is testing the water for toxins.
- CWS confirms drinking water remains safe.
- Recreational activities are discouraged in areas with visible algae presence.
- Residents are urged to limit fertilizer runoff and prevent soil erosion.
Background on Algal Blooms
Algal blooms can occur naturally and often arise from various environmental factors including nutrient runoff from agricultural or urban areas. While not all blooms are toxic, those that produce toxins can significantly impact water quality and pose health risks to humans and animals.
Periodic Testing and Monitoring
Ongoing monitoring and testing efforts by environmental health officials are critical to maintaining a safe recreational environment where residents can safely engage in activities such as swimming and fishing in water bodies. Regular updates will be issued as more information becomes available about the status of the Goose Creek Reservoir.
FAQ
What is the current advisory for Goose Creek Reservoir?
The advisory urges residents in Hanahan to avoid contact with the Goose Creek Reservoir due to a naturally occurring algal bloom.
Is the drinking water in the area safe?
Yes, drinking water in the area remains completely safe as the reservoir is not currently used as a drinking water source.
What should residents do about fertilizers?
Residents and businesses are urged to carefully apply fertilizers to prevent it from running into the waterway.
What are the health risks associated with algal blooms?
People can become ill from swimming, kayaking, fishing, or wading through contaminated water, inhaling droplets, or drinking affected water. Pets can also be at risk.
Summary of Advisory Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Advisory Issued | Avoid contact with Goose Creek Reservoir |
| Toxin Testing | SCDES is testing water for toxins |
| Drinking Water Safety | CWS confirms drinking water remains safe |
| Recreational Activities | Discouraged in areas with visible algae |
| Fertilizer Usage | Residents urged to limit runoff |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Advisory Issued for Goose Creek Reservoir Due to Algal Bloom
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: Algal Bloom
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Goose Creek Reservoir algal bloom
- Count on 2 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Algal Bloom
- Live 5 News
- Google News: Goose Creek Reservoir
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
