April marks the start of Beaufort County’s participation in the annual statewide Zero Tolerance for Litter campaign. This month-long event is a collaborative effort between law enforcement and a host of state and local agencies, aimed at creating public awareness of the effects of littering in South Carolina.

This year’s initiative will kick off with a media event to be held at the Broad River Boat Landing at 11 a.m. on April 16. During this event, a proclamation will be issued by Beaufort County Council and representatives from participating agencies will assemble to publicly recognize the many dedicated volunteers who work throughout the year to keep Beaufort County beautiful.

Throughout the month, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Environmental Crime Unit will be increasing patrols and activities focused on litter reduction. Investigators will be targeting litter offenders, from those tossing garbage out the window of their vehicle, to commercial vehicles transporting uncovered loads. Citations for litter-related violations can and will be issued, with fines ranging from $200 to more than $1,000.

Deputies will be present at several of the county’s drop-off centers, ensuring that refuse is properly transported and disposed of. And in addition to enforcement measures, Environmental Crime Unit investigators will provide educational opportunities through school presentations and public service announcements.

Many community groups have already pledged participation by scheduling roadside clean-ups throughout the county. Citizens wishing to get involved in these collection efforts can contact any of the participating agencies: the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, the South Carolina Litter Control Association, Keep South Carolina Beautiful, Keep Beaufort County Beautiful, Palmetto Pride, and the Beaufort County Public Works Department and Solid Waste and Recycling Section.

For more information regarding SC litter laws, visit: http://www.sclittercontrol.org/litterlaws.html.
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