You may have noticed that SIPOA has installed new trash can enclosures at each of the beach access boardwalks and other locations on the island. The old enclosures were deteriorating and needed to be replaced.
The maintenance staff (pictured below from left to right: Gary Brown, Larry Swails, Duaine Collins, Jonathan Jones, and Jonathan Scrughan) began building them in the spring. Last month, they completed the replacement of 16 trash enclosures with an improved design to make accessing the cans easier.
The new enclosures look great, and we wanted to acknowledge the entire maintenance staff for their hard work to get this completed!
When we are walking or riding our bikes around on Seabrook, we often see a postcard-perfect scene of a vibrant natural ecosystem: golden hour on the marsh, spoonbills working the shallows for shrimp, a momma deer with wobbly baby fawns, or dolphins lazily cruising the creeks. We might imagine a peaceful, quiet life for these creatures. Aren’t they just “Livin’ the Dream” like we are?
But the reality of our barrier island’s natural environment is much more intense. Nature isn’t a peaceful sanctuary; it’s a high-stakes, constant struggle. Simply put, Nature is Savage.
To really understand the wildlife around us, we must realize that all of these creatures aren’t living like us. They don’t worry about tee times, complain about the weather, or disparage the migratory renters that pass through seasonally. Their whole existence is built around three relentless goals: (1) finding their next meal, (2) not becoming someone else’s next meal, and (3) raising their young to help their species survive. Every single day is a test. Their lives really are wild, and wildlife is an accurate description.
Every single creature on Seabrook Island is a part of the food web. Think of it as nature’s version of a neighborhood network, but instead of trading favors or borrowing a cup of sugar, it’s all about energy transfer. Every plant and animal plays a role: plants capture energy from the sun; bugs, fish, and small mammals eat plants; birds eat bugs and fish; and larger predators eat the birds and mammalian prey. It’s a delicate, interconnected cycle where everyone is a source of energy for someone else. Animals are all part of this chain, and that means eating – and being eaten- is just the basic mechanism of how the system stays balanced. Everything depends on everything else.
In the last month or so, I’ve been able to witness the savagery of nature firsthand a few times. As I watched a pair of American Oystercatchers guard and incubate their 3 egg clutch for nearly 30 days, I became more than a spectator; I morphed into a “passionate fan”. Finally, the first 2 chicks hatched, but the May king tides overwashed the nest that night, causing the parents to abandon the final egg. Within 48 hours of hatching, both super cute chicks had been predated by a bobcat. An early-season loss for Team Oystercatcher, but it’s the reality of the ecosystem. Approaching Ocean 18 after a recent round (savage in its own right), I watched a cormorant sunning his wings get suddenly BooYah’d by an alligator right before my eyes. I’ve seen a cardinal enjoying a morning splash in my birdbath only to get picked off in an instant by a Cooper’s Hawk. This time of year, much of the ruckus you hear on North Beach behind the dune line is willets chasing off crows relentlessly preying on their eggs and live chicks. Nature is Savage.
When we see these events, it’s natural to feel bad, especially when our favored team loses the match. But we must remember that those predators – the hawks, the bobcats, the gators – aren’t “villains”. They are essential balancing mechanisms in a healthy, functioning environment. This isn’t a story of victims and bad guys; it’s just the raw, unfiltered cycle of life that’s been happening on Seabrook Island long before we arrived here. We are just fortunate spectators amid a productive, balanced ecosystem. We shouldn’t feel helpless when our favorite cute animal gets eaten by another species we are less fond of. Yes, Nature is savage, but it’s only because Everything depends on everything else.
Submitted by Jeff Davis, Environmental Committee Chair
The SIPOA Board, Committee members, and staff, both collectively and privately, get emails and voicemails virtually every day from homeowners expressing concerns about island safety. Topics range from young children without seatbelts in LSVs to eBikes not obeying traffic rules to dog leashing. And much more.
We welcome these homeowner messages; as Directors, we’re happy to serve as your sounding boards for issues of concern. However, it is virtually impossible for us to address every infraction and prevent every future infraction. We, and our stellar Security Team, cannot be “everything, everywhere, all at once”.
So, I will take this opportunity to share some facts that will hopefully allow homeowners to better understand and appreciate just how much we are doing to ensure your safety and security. Four major road safety challenges have been recurring for the 17 years I have been on this island, and will continue for the foreseeable future (unless we ban all vehicles from roadways):
LSV Safety Compliance is still a problem. We issue, on average, 20+ tickets a month, more in the peak season (40+). In fact, on this issue, we have increased and enhanced enforcement and are now writing 50% more each month compared to a year ago. But parents still carry babies on their laps and do not seatbelt young children. LSV drivers still fail to stop at stop signs and park illegally. Now, before you say, “It must be those short-term renters,” note that renters only represent 10% of these citations.
There have been many homeowner complaints asking, “Why aren’t we doing anything about it?” The Safety & Security Committee has been proactive by: a) validating the problem; b) communicating and educating homeowners, renters, and LSV rental companies (ongoing). I certainly appreciate the allure of an LSV. So, please take responsibility for the people who use your LSV and educate them on safety rules before someone gets seriously hurt. We will continue to work alongside LSV rental companies to better educate renters on LSV safety.
Currently, there is a significant spike in citations for speeding and stop sign rolling. Fifty percent (50%) over the same time last year. Typically, it is 55% homeowner, 30% contractor, 10% renter, and 5% employee. We will, of course, continue with enforcement across the entire island. We also had an extraordinary number of appeals this period. On average, over 95% of appeals were denied, largely because “Play the videotape!” Our Security Team is equipped with cameras in their vehicles and on their bodies. When the homeowner, contractor, or renter appeals a citation, the Committee reviews the video (and shares with the violator upon request), and the infraction is clear. Sometimes we have to accept that the Rules are not clear. In those instances, we err on the side of the violator and rule in their favor for the appeal. SIPOA’s Rules and Regulations are a living, breathing document and are under constant review for clarity and applicability as time passes.
eBikes have become a more visible problem largely because the offenders are repeaters and are difficult to catch. Offenders are challenging to police because they travel on and off-road. The potential for eBikes causing a safety problem is high. There is only one type of eBike allowed on Seabrook Island: Class-1 eBikes. These are defined as a bicycle/tricycle with operable pedals equipped with a motor that provides assistance ONLY when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance if/when the bicycle/tricycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour. The electric motor is less than 750 watts (1 h.p.) and has no throttle. The Safety & Security Committee is working with the Town of Seabrook Island and law enforcement on recommendations to address this potential hazard.
SIPOA is aware that beach parking is an issue compounded by the summer season. SIPOA does not have purview over all parking (some is owned by the Club), but we recognize that as the island builds out, it will only get worse. We are looking into several remediation remedies:
Relining parking pads so they are narrower and can fit more vehicles
Expanding parking lots
Running a beach shuttle
Allowing “residents only” parking at the beach
Parking improvement is part of the Master Plan. In the meantime, y’all could also ride your bikes to the beach. The exercise and free parking are worth it.
Safety starts at home. The Safety & Security Committee of SIPOA asks that LSV and eBike owners take personal responsibility for themselves and the people who use their vehicles. Learn the Rules of the Road for these vehicles and ensure that those you entrust with your vehicles adhere to them.
Beach access will be closed at Boardwalk 3A on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 7:00am – 4:00pm.
The beach access is immediately adjacent to stormwater pump station 3. The pumps, motors, and drives at this pump station are scheduled to be replaced during this time. A large crane will be needed to remove the old pumps and install new pumps.
Residents should plan to use another beach access on this date.
Thank you for your patience as we work to keep our infrastructure in great condition.
We would like to provide clarification regarding the Crab Dock Renovation project currently underway.
While the crab dock, viewing platform, and connecting causeway are closed during construction, the boat ramp and kayak launch remain open and accessible from the end of Cap’n Sams Road. No construction work is taking place in the boat ramp or kayak launch area.
Closed during construction:
Crab dock
Viewing platform
Causeway connecting two dock areas
Remaining open during construction:
Boat ramp
Kayak launch dock
Construction is anticipated to be completed by July 3. We appreciate your patience as we make these improvements to the area.
The planned renovations to the crab dock will begin tomorrow (6/10). These renovations include:
replacing the handrail on the crab dock
replacing the pile cap on top of the bulkhead
replacing the viewing platform adjacent to the crab dock
Construction is anticipated to take approximately 3 weeks, and the crab dock will be closed during this time. We hope to have the area reopened on July 3rd.
We appreciate your patience as we work to keep SIPOA amenities in great condition.
Lei’d Back & Loving it: The 2026 Property Owners Luau
The Seabrook Island Property Owners Luau has blossomed into one of our community’s cherished traditions. What started as a welcoming gathering for new residents has grown into a beloved annual celebration open to all Property Owners 21 and older. Now part of SIPOA’s signature events alongside the Oyster Roast, July 4th festivities, and Tree Lighting, the Luau beautifully captures the spirit of aloha right here on our island, fostering friendships, creating memories, and reminding us why we love calling Seabrook Island home.
Last year’s expanded Luau on the Lake House Lawn set a joyful new standard, drawing over 600 attendees. This year’s event on Saturday, May 23, carried forward that magic and made it even more special. From 4:00-7:00pm, the lawn came alive with the irresistible aroma of slow-roasted pork, the upbeat sounds of Tommy Brown Jr. and the Chucktown Players, and the easy flow of complimentary beer and wine. Property Owners arrived in colorful Hawaiian-inspired apparel, many sporting leis, their faces lit with smiles as they reconnected with old friends and welcomed new neighbors.
The 2026 Luau felt especially warm and vibrant. Perfect evening weather and the natural beauty of the Lake House setting created an unforgettable backdrop for laughter, great conversations, and that wonderful sense of belonging. Many attendees shared how much they truly appreciated the thoughtful touches. It was more than just a party, it was a heartfelt reminder of the strong community bonds that make Seabrook Island so unique.
A big mahalo to Nic Porter, Lake House Director; Hannah Rice, Lake House Manager, the Amenities & Activities committee, Lake House and Maintenance staff for serving, and all the dedicated volunteers whose hard work behind the scenes brought this special evening to life. Events like the Property Owners Luau are the heart of our community, and we can’t wait to gather again next year.
Here’s to many more summers filled with music, good food, and the joy of being together!
A special thank you to Alan & Sharlee Fink, Jeff Davis and the Seabrook Island Photography Club for these incredible photos!
Submitted by Michelle Wiedemuth, Amenities & Activities Chair
This summer, SIPOA has two interns participating in the Engineering Intern Program. Maria Miller is a Biosystems Engineering student from Clemson University. She is excited to be here and is looking forward to seeing how classroom calculations and design are translated into real world stormwater solutions. Alex Arquette is a Johns Island native and recent graduate in Geography and Economics from the University of South Carolina. He is looking forward to applying his GIS skills to stormwater resiliency applications on Seabrook Island.
Maria and Alex will be working on updating SIPOA’s stormwater outfall maintenance program among other projects this summer. If you see them out on the island or in the marsh surveying, please welcome them to Seabrook Island!
Over the years, various Property Owners, contractors, and synthetic turf salesmen and manufactures have presented many requests and a plethora of information to the Architectural Review Committee (ARC) in hopes of having synthetic turf approved for use within the Seabrook Island Development (SID). While the multiple ARC members have seen and understood the desire to use synthetic turf in the past, setting the requirements, restrictions, and conditions to use proved difficult.
The ARC Policies and Procedures sub-committee have been meeting for months to review and refine the Policies and Procedures. During that review, one topic was synthetic turf – Do we allow it? If so, where, how much, etc.? After much discussion, the following was presented to the ARC for review. On May 5, 2026, this was approved by the ARC to be submitted to the Board of Directors, and was approved by the Board on May 18, 2026.
While we continue the process of updating the Policies and Procedures, this language will be referred to as Appendix T, and it will be found in the back of the Policies and Procedures document, which is available on the SIPOA website. Once the Policies and Procedures revisions are complete, this language will be incorporated into the document and will no longer be an Appendix.
If you have questions about the usage of synthetic turf for a future project, please contact the Architectural Review office at (843) 203-6464 or arc@sipoa.org.
APPENDIX T: SYNTHETIC TURF LAWN FOR RAISED PATIOS
Synthetic Turf Lawn for Raised Patios: Synthetic turf lawns are permitted in limited circumstances.
Synthetic turf lawn areas are to be located at the rear of the property, may not extend beyond the sides of the house or into the setbacks at the sides or rear of the house, and are not visible from the street.
The synthetic turf lawn area is to be elevated to a minimum of 18” above the average surrounding grade of the turf area.
Synthetic turf lawn is to be no more than 1% of the highland area of the lot.
Synthetic turf lawn is to be bordered on all exposed sides with a continuous, solid, opaque wall constructed of approved materials consistent with the design of the house and capped with a complimentary coping.
The pile of the synthetic turf is to be a minimum of 1.75” high with a thatch base.
Plantings shall be required to soften the appearance of the walls of the raised area, help it blend with the surrounding yard, and reduce visibility from the neighboring properties.
Making a Splash in Water Safety for Johns Island Kids
For 16 years, the Be Water Wise swim program – run by Waterproof Inc., has been opening the world of water to children from Johns Island. Since 2010, this free program has provided essential swim lessons and water safety training to local first-graders who might otherwise never learn how to swim. This May, seventy enthusiastic first-graders from Angel Oak Elementary School joined the 2026 swim camp at the SIPOA outdoor pool, discovering the joy and life-saving skills of swimming.
Despite unseasonably cold weather that limited the program to five training days instead of nine, the children made remarkable progress. Each day began with water safety instruction, followed by one-on-one coaching from dedicated volunteers. Many kids arrived having never been in a pool before, some hesitant even to get their faces wet. Through patient encouragement, they learned skills like “wall walking” around the pool and exiting unassisted. The shallow ends of Seabrook’s pool proved perfect for teaching small groups safely, while the nearby playground offered a fun waiting area.
This year, twenty certified coaches and five deck staff (including two Spanish interpreters) brought warmth and expertise to the program. All volunteers complete rigorous training, including CPR/AED certification, age-specific swim instruction, and youth protection courses. Many return year after year, describing the experience as incredibly rewarding. While cold water presented a challenge, the program’s impact remains powerful: learning to swim dramatically reduces drowning risk, and several past participants have returned years later to thank their coaches.
The partnership with SIPOA provides unique advantages: a safe, accessible teaching environment and strong community support that would be difficult to replicate elsewhere. As Waterproof Inc. looks ahead, the goal remains simple: continue serving local children for as long as the need exists. With SIPOA’s willingness to extend pool access and potential new facilities on Johns Island on the horizon, the future of Be Water Wise shines bright.
A heartfelt thank you to all the Seabrook Island volunteers, SIPOA staff, and community members who make this life-saving program possible. Together, we’re not just teaching children how to swim, we’re building confidence, creating opportunities, and keeping our Lowcountry kids safer for years to come.
Thank you to Maureen Healy and the Seabrook Island Photography Club for photos.
