Please file. Thanks!

FYI

Hello Mr. Carr,

Thank you for your inquiry regarding the Sassafras Mountain observation tower. I apologize that it has taken me a couple of weeks to get back with you, but I have been traveling with work and on vacation with my family.  The department and our partners share your desire that the tower be aesthetically pleasing and suitable for the desired outcome of appreciating the surrounding area.  DNR staff in conjunction with the Sassafras Improvement Committee considered ideas from numerous individuals in the local area as plans were being refined.

You are correct that the ADA compliance requirements did trigger a modification from the original plan, but we feel this was critical not only to complying with federal law but also with providing a valuable viewing opportunity for all of our citizens.  Sassafras is truly beautiful, and we simply can’t develop the area without making it enjoyable for everyone including those with physical limitations.  We believe that the current design not only meets the requirements for the ADA but will also provide a unique viewing opportunity. We have selectively thinned trees and observed the area from an elevated position in a bucket truck to ensure such.  While I understand your concerns, I sincerely hope that you will be pleasantly surprised and pleased with the final outcome.

Thank you again for your interest and sharing your concerns,

Emily

Emily Cope

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

Deputy Director

Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

PO Box 167

Columbia, SC 29202

Office: 803-734-3937

Fax: 803-734-6020

“Excellence can be obtained if you care more than others think is wise, risk more than others think is safe, dream more than others think is practical, expect more than others think is possible.” ~Unknown