Debate to put focus on natural resources

Ten Republican and Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls will take the stage in Orangeburg tonight to debate the ways South Carolina should grow its economy while conserving its environment.

The debate will highlight the estimated $30 billion annual impact natural resources have on the state's economy and put the contenders on the record about how each would capitalize on and protect the resource, Emmett Davis Jr., chairman of the S.C. Natural Resources Society, said. The group is hosting the debate.

Candidates will square off from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College. The debate will be broadcast at 8 p.m. on ETV stations and streamed online on its Web site.

The Post and Courier's special projects reporter Tony Bartelme will serve as a moderator.

Davis said the debate will help contrast the differences between the candidates and help to introduce them to South Carolina voters.

The Natural Resources Society was established in 2005 by community leaders who wanted to help the state make informed decisions when it comes to preservation and conservation.

The protection of South Carolina's natural resources is paramount to quality of life and vital to the state's economy, Davis said. He cited a study by the Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina called "Underappreciated Assets: The Economic Impact of South Carolina's Natural Resources." The study shows that in addition to the $30 billion in economic impact, the state's natural resources support 236,000 jobs.

The debate comes a year to the day before South Carolina will elect its next governor. It is the first time in the state's history that primary candidates from both parties will share a stage, according to ETV.

Gov. Mark Sanford is limited to two terms and cannot seek re-election.

The Republican contenders debated in September at the Newberry Opera House. A day later, Democrats gathered at a Prosperity barbecue restaurant for an impromptu debate.

If you watch

ETV will air tonight's gubernatorial debate at 8 p.m. on television and stream it online.

To watch on the Internet, log on to www.scetv.org/candidatespotlight. Tune in the television to the local ETV station.

The debate will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College in the Rocquemore Auditorium.

Reach Yvonne Wenger at 803-926-7855 or ywenger@postandcourier.com.