Overview of SC Algae
SC Algae LLC provides comprehensive services for research and harvesting of nuisance aquatic plants, including algal blooms, from ponds and shoreline communities. Our dedicated research team ensures safe transportation of this material to our facility, where we employ our patented Eco-Solids technology to convert the biomass into a safe fertilizer suitable for land use. Additionally, we offer hauling and processing services for chicken and cattle waste, applying the Eco-Solids process to eliminate harmful pathogens and capture any heavy metals. We take pride in offering sustainable fertilizer products that are environmentally safe for land applications.
Mission Statement
At South Carolina Algae LLC, we are committed to pioneering sustainable solutions for agricultural and environmental challenges. Our patented Eco-Solids and Eco-Harvester technologies transform animal waste and algal biomass, into safe, high-quality fertilizers. Our mission is to enhance soil productivity, protect water quality, and promote environmental health by removing harmful pathogens and heavy metals from waste streams. We are dedicated to innovation and education, collaborating with academic institutions to advance scientific research and empower the next generation of environmental leaders.
Vision Statement
Our vision at South Carolina Algae LLC is to become a global leader in sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. We aim to set the standard for transforming organic waste into safe, high-quality fertilizers that enhance soil health, protect water resources, and reduce environmental risks. Through continuous innovation, partnerships with academic institutions, and a strong commitment to education, we strive to make lasting contributions to a healthier planet and prosperous communities worldwide.
Priority Areas
- Sustainability: Promoting sustainable practices in agriculture and environmental management.
- Next Generation Fertilizers and Agricultural Soil Health: Developing innovative fertilizers that enhance soil health and productivity.
- Public Health and Safety: Ensuring that our processes and products protect public health and safety.
- Academic Education and Collaboration: Partnering with academic institutions to advance scientific research and education.
- Technology Development and Innovation: Focusing on the development and implementation of cutting-edge technologies to address environmental challenges.
Our Team
Samuel Shepherd is a distinguished physicist, inventor, and engineer renowned for his significant contributions across multiple scientific disciplines including bio-chemical and medical engineering, physics, chemistry, and mathematics. With an impressive portfolio of 42 patents, he has made pioneering advancements in environmental technologies encompassing algal technology development, wastewater treatment, water purification, alternative energy, carbon capture systems, and industries such as petrochemicals, polymers, and bio-mechanics. Commercialization of Algae to Energy products.
Mr. Shepherd's academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering, underscoring his profound expertise and comprehensive understanding of these fields. Beyond his scientific pursuits, he holds a PhD in Biblical Studies, reflecting his broad intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary approach to knowledge.
In addition to his roles as an inventor and engineer, Samuel Shepherd is a successful businessman, forensic investigator, cosmologist, and sought-after speaker. His entrepreneurial endeavors have not only driven technological innovation but also contributed to societal advancements in forensic science and homeland security, earning him esteemed recognition as a Lifetime Fellow of the American College of Forensic Examiners and certification as a Class III Homeland Security professional.
Keith Merimon is a highly skilled supervisor and mechanic with extensive experience focused on enhancing employee satisfaction and achieving business excellence. Known for his diplomatic leadership style and approachability, Keith is dedicated to comprehensive employee training and ensuring overall team satisfaction. Keith is also a diligent team player with expertise in meeting operational challenges effectively.
Gregory Shepherd is the Lead Environmental Technician at SC Algae LLC, with over 20 years of experience in environmental management, restoration, and infrastructure planning. Gregory joined SC Algae LLC in July 2024 and has quickly become a vital asset, assisting in initiatives from infrastructure development to removing invasive aquatic species from lakes and ponds throughout South Carolina. Gregory holds multiple certifications, including Applied Structural Drying, Mold Remediation, and Water Damage Restoration, and is known for his ability to execute complex environmental projects. His extensive expertise and commitment to sustainable practices make him a vital leader at SC Algae LLC.
Ben received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the College of Charleston in May 2024. His academic interests focus on phycology, botany, and medicinal herbology. His passion for exploring the great outdoors through hiking and camping complements his work at SC Algae, where he contributes to environmental monitoring and research initiatives.
Collaborating Scientists
Clinical Professor and Chair of the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at the Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina and Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions.
Dr. Geoffrey I. Scott currently serves as the Clinical Professor and Chair of the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina. He is also Director of the NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions (OHHC2I) housed in the Arnold School of Public Health with Collaborating Universities including the College of Charleston, The Citadel, Baylor University, University of California Irvine, Rutgers University and the University of Maryland.
Dr. Scott received his BS in Biology from Wofford College and his MS and PhD. in Marine Science from the University of South Carolina. Previous research experience includes: (1) Aquatic Toxicologist for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Bears Bluff Field Station from 1976-80, studying the impacts of water chlorination on estuarine organisms and conducting ecological assessments of oil spill impacts around the world, including assessing impacts of the Ixtoc Well Blowout in the Gulf of Mexico; (2) Director of Toxicology Program and the Wide Awake Landing Marine Field Station for Research Planning Institute from 1980-84, conducting research on hazardous waste sites impacts, oil spills and Vibrio cholerae outbreaks in the Gulf of Mexico; (3) Assistant and Associate Tenured Professor at the University of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health from 1984-90 working on assessing the impacts of agricultural pesticides, synthetic fuels and urban NPS runoff on coastal ecosystems; and (4) NOAA/NOS National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research (CCEHBR), 1990-2014, conducting research that measured the health of coastal ecosystems and evaluates the impacts of changing landscape ecology from urbanization on ecosystem and human health. Dr. Scott was the Director of NOAA’s CCEHBR from 2001-2014, and formerly the Acting Director for NOAA’s Center for Human Health Risk at the Hollings Marine Laboratory from 2009-2011.
In addition, he has also held faculty appointments in the Marine Biology Program at the College of Charleston and has previously held faculty appointments at other academic Institutions including the Marine Biomedicine Program at the Medical University of South Carolina and Texas Tech University’s Institute for Environmental and Human Health.
Dr. Scott has served on >119 graduate student research committees and has directed the research of > 63 Masters and PhD Students at various institutions where he holds faculty appointments. He has published > 200 peer reviewed scientific publications, has authored/co-authored > 24 national reports and has served on numerous international (United Nations, Hanse Institute) federal (White House, National Academy of Science, US Congress, EPA, NOAA) and state (SC, CA, VA) expert panels and interagency task forces and panels.