Governor McMaster spoke to the crowd on the importance of planting trees on the Hike Bike Trail.  The Hike Bike Trail was under almost 5 inches of water when Hurricane Florence on September 15, 2018.  The Governor’s trip to Marion was to highlight the SC Floodwater Commission and  the frequent flooding from rains, storms, and hurricanes.  The trees being planted are to help offset stormwater through evapotranspiration and aiding in infiltration of water into the soil.  The trees will also provide beauty and shade in the future to help make the Marion Hike-Bike Trail a more inviting place for locals.

The City of Marion would like to thank the many volunteers who gave their support at the tree planting as part of the SC Floodwater Commission on Saturday June 15, 2019.  This project was spear headed by Governor Henry McMaster. Thank you also to Lt. Governor Pamela Evette, Congressman Tom Rice, Senator Kent Williams, Representative Lucas Atkinson, Councilwoman Tassie Lewis and County Councilman Johnny Atkinson who joined us on this day. Special thanks to SC Forestry Commission staff including Forest Management Chief Russell Hubright, Pee Dee Urban Forester Lois Edwards, Horry/Marion Sector FMO Brandon Craig, Urban Forestry Coordinator Frances Waite, Horry/Marion Project Forester Adam Powell, State Forester Scott Phillips, and Piedmont Urban Forester Dena Whitesides, Liz Gilland, Debbie Dickinson, Sharon Richardson of Audubon, Lachel Bradley-Williams from the Arbor Day Foundation, Chairman Tom Mullikin of SC Floodwater Commission and Cheyenne Cunningham. The City of Marion truly appreciates all who gave their time and effort to the worthwhile event.