Good water is vital to any healthy community, but is often taken for granted or viewed as the responsibility of others.

There is perhaps no better example of the consequences of this indifference than Greenville’s iconic Reedy River, which for the past few decades has served as a dumping ground for industrial waste, garbage, and just about anything else that could be washed away by running water.

Cleaning the river and improving the community’s overall water quality was the main reason why a group of volunteers and community leaders Friends of the Reedy River more than 30 years ago.

The group has made great strides in cleaning the river and improving water quality by conveying a simple message: everyone can do their part to protect water quality.

Good friends of the Reedy River

In a part of the country where population growth is creating enormous pressure for development, securing natural resources is a daunting task. But according to Scott Butler, chairman of the board of Friends of the Reedy River, every resident plays an important role in water quality.

Everyone uses water every day, and Butler said making informed decisions about how we use that water — and, frankly, what we flush down the toilet — can have a significant impact on water quality.

One of the main responsibilities of Josie Newton, watershed scientist at Friends of the Reedy River, is to educate the public, especially young people.

Newton frequently speaks to groups about how people can have a positive impact on water quality in their everyday lives. She said working with students is one of the most rewarding groups, and much of that work is done in collaboration with Conestee Nature Preserve through its many student-centered educational programs.

To improve water quality, public awareness must first be raised. However, for this awareness to be effective, it must motivate people to change their behaviour and learn to use water responsibly.

Simple steps

Numerous organizations are dedicated to protecting water resources in the region and offer residents useful advice on what actions they can take to make a positive impact.

One such group, which brings together residents, community and conservation groups, local and state authorities, and university partners, is the Reedy River Water Quality Group.

Newton and Friends of the Reedy River are actively involved in the group and its work to protect and improve the entire Reedy River basin.

She said the group’s website, cleanreedy.org, offers a wealth of information about what people can do to protect water quality, including:

• Keep fats, oils and grease (FOG) out of septic tanks and municipal sewage systems
• Dispose of animal feces in the trash to prevent it from being carried by rainwater into streams, creeks and rivers.
• Homeowners should limit the use of fertilizers and pesticides. Use them only on areas that need them and not when rain is expected.
• Only flush the three “Ps”: toilet paper and human excrement

Butler said if everyone does their part, maintaining and improving water quality will be much easier.

Get active

Friends of the Reedy River conducts two major river cleanups each year in the spring and fall, where volunteers can help keep the river free of trash and debris. Registration for September 21 The cleanup work will begin on August 26th. For further information and to register, please visit friendsofthereedyriver.org/events.