On February 12, 2019, the Department of Health and Environmental Control will host an informational session on the designated Western Capacity Use Area under the Groundwater Use and Reporting Act, what it means for those who withdraw water, as well as the steps that need to be taken to develop a Groundwater Management Plan (GWMP) for the area. The Counties included in the new area are Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun, Lexington and Orangeburg. The meeting will be held at the Clemson Edisto Research and Education Center in Blackville, South Carolina. Stakeholders in the Western Capacity Use Area will have the opportunity to develop a plan locally, guided by the Department, that will impact how withdrawal permits are evaluated.  The meeting will discuss how the plan will be developed and will accept feedback regarding this process. We look forward to seeing you!