Community Concerns Rise Over Mining Expansion Next to Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve in Conway
CONWAY, S.C. — Tensions bubbled over Friday evening in Conway as residents gathered to voice their worries about the ongoing mining expansion by Soilutions LLC right next to the Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve. With the project, which will blow up from about four acres to more than 24 acres, nearing the end of phase one, many locals are anxious about the environmental impact and want to ensure their beloved home is not being put at risk.
Intentions to Foster Good Neighbor Relations
The meeting was held to foster a friendly discussion between the mining operation and Edge Road residents, and it was clear that many locals had more on their minds than just small talk. Preston Kelly, a long-time Conway resident, expressed deep concerns about the dust generated by the mining activities. “Our biggest concern right now is the dirt. I know they are trying to keep it under control, but the dust will affect some of the endemic animals like the woodpecker,” he stated earnestly.
The gathering was vital for Soilutions LLC to gain perspectives from the community. Ethan Epps, a representative of the company, commented, “This is the first community meeting that we had, and I think it went well in the sense that the people that came are from our community, the residents of Edge Road.” Epps reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the lines of communication open between the miners and residents.
Safety Concerns and Environmental Impact
Along with the dust, residents brought up their worries about the speed of trucks traversing Edge Road. Numerous attendees felt that Soilutions was not behaving like a good neighbor to those living near the preserve or to the environment. Kelly added, “I grew up on the river, I grew up in the woods, so I just like to conserve and protect nature.” The passion from the community was palpable as residents rallied around their shared love for their environment.
As the conversation shifted towards safeguarding local wildlife and natural resources, Kelly pressed for answers regarding the hydrology effects of the mining process. He emphasized the importance of understanding how the mining impacts the local flora and fauna. “I also came here with a couple of my own questions specifically for the hydrology, and how the mines affecting it, and also how the mines affecting the local flora and fauna in the area,” Kelly stated unapologetically.
Communication is Key
One key point made by Soilutions during the meeting was that they can’t address concerns if residents don’t reach out about them. “Communication is a two-way street you know, our phone numbers they have and they have had,” Epps explained, reminding residents that their voices were crucial in keeping the operation accountable.
The Road Ahead
Despite the awareness raised by local conservation groups, the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services did approve the mine’s expansion earlier in 2023. Those in attendance at the meeting could see the presence of county officials, ensuring any additional concerns could be addressed right on the spot.
With all eyes on Conway and the ongoing debate between development and conservation, it seems the residents of Edge Road are ready to fight for their home. As both sides strive to find common ground, only time will tell whether a solution can be reached that honors the ecological integrity of this beloved area.
