The House Legislative Oversight Committee convened on October 23, 2024, to address the significant impact of a recent storm on South Carolina's timber industry and urban forestry. The meeting highlighted the extensive damage assessment currently underway, with initial estimates indicating a staggering loss of $46 million, a figure that may rise as evaluations continue.

Committee members discussed the variability of damage across the state, noting that while some landowners faced catastrophic losses, others experienced only minor damage. The storm resulted in over 1,000 road closures, severely disrupting operations for forest-based businesses, including loggers and mills, which were unable to work for several days due to power outages.

Particular attention was given to the urban canopy cover in cities such as Spartanburg, Greenville, Greenwood, Aiken, and Edgefield, where many street trees were lost. The committee emphasized the need for a long-term recovery plan to restore these urban landscapes and assist affected communities.

Efforts are also being made to support individual landowners who have suffered significant financial losses, as many had invested their life savings in timberland. The committee is working to connect these landowners with available assistance programs to aid in their recovery.

The meeting concluded with a focus on collaboration with federal agencies, particularly the USDA, to explore additional support for the state's recovery efforts. The committee plans to continue monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.