S.C. Code Ann. § 48-23-86: Duties of State Forester and Forestry Commission with respect to forest disasters; development of Forest Disaster Plan.

The State Forester shall take immediate action upon report of a forest disaster to determine the extent of damage by conducting ground and aerial surveys including photography if necessary. When conditions warrant, the State Forester shall declare that a forest disaster exists and notify the Governor of his action.

All necessary resources of the Forestry Commission may be used to assist citizens and local governments on public and private land where life or health is in danger. The Forestry Commission shall also assist other state agencies, utility companies and cooperatives, in the clearing of transportation routes, and power and communication lines.

The Forestry Commission shall develop a Forest Disaster Plan to provide for systematic salvage and utilization of all forest products damaged by disasters of all types. This plan shall provide methods to coordinate all forestry community interests and groups to conserve the damaged forest resources of South Carolina, protect the environment and reestablish forests on the damaged areas.

After the disaster area has resumed normal status and salvage is completed, the State Forester shall declare the forest disaster over, compile a report of the disaster, and inform the Governor.