01/30/2009
D
R
A
F
T
CSE
–S&W–DEW [DRAFT]
Accreted Land Management Plan
154
2253 [30 JANUARY 2009]
Town of Sullivan’s Island, SC
Alternative 1 – Do Nothing and Allow the AL to Evolve Naturally
Alternative 1 assumes negligible alteration of the existing AL by artificial means. Paths would
be maintained by pedestrian use and minor pruning of overhanging branches along the edge,
but would otherwise be left untouched. Existing conditions and habitats would change natu-
rally in relation to the rate of vegetation growth. Over time, the upper-story tree canopy would
expand and become the dominant vista across the entire AL. Paths would become sheltered
by overhanging limbs of live oak, palmettos, and pines, among other maritime forest species.
Barrier Island Ecology & Habitat Diversity
Nine distinct habitats now will likely transform to predominantly forest habitats as
tree canopy expands. Shrubland and grassland habitat area will diminish.
Wetland areas will shrink as organic detritus and sediments accumulate and build
up substrate.
Forest species will increase.
Understory vegetation will decrease.
Storm Damage Reduction
Improved storm surge and wave attenuation due to presence of trees.
Incrementally reduced potential storm damage to developed property compared
with present conditions.
Ocean Views
Continually diminish until eliminated for all oceanfront properties facing the AL.
Beach Access & Public Safety
Access will diminish unless paths are maintained. Expanded tree cover with less
understory vegetation will provide hiding places and escape routes for criminal
activity and potentially reduce public safety.
Fire
Threat of fire will diminish over time in relation to decreased understory vegetation
(see section 6.2 for a detailed discussion of fire threats and management options).
Pests
Rodent problems will decline in relation to decreased understory vegetation.
Property Values
Loss of ocean views is expected to have a negative impact on property values and
the local tax base as “oceanfront” homes are compared with interior island homes
on other SC beach resorts. Rental rates are expected to be negatively impacted
relative to rates for oceanfront property with unimpeded views. Reduction in
oceanfront property values (or the rate of rise relative to competing properties on
other barrier islands) may adversely impact municipal budgets.
Cost of Implementation
Negligible
Construction Requirements
None