South Carolina agency launches new online tool for coastal education [Video]

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) – A new online resource called the “Coastal Atlas” is helping Lowcountry coastal communities understand their environment.

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services launched the new online service Monday. Leaders say the online portal compiles about 40 years’ worth of coastal information, history and data points to make navigating easier for the community.

The atlas uses an interactive layout called an ArcGIS StoryMap and includes videos, guided maps and pictures.

Charleston County is one of eight coastal counties with several critical zones.

Critical zones include coastal waters and tide lands, along with beaches and dune systems which leaders say fall along the ocean side of Highway 17.

The state coastal program controls these areas in terms of permitting and activities such as boats and docks in an effort to protect valuable habitats and ecosystems.

Jessica Boynton, who works with the state department’s Bureau of Coastal …