"Summer's the same. We're the ones who are changing."
– Betty Williams
Dear Litchfield By The Sea owners,
The Litchfield by the Sea (LBTS) Feral Cat Program is a volunteer-driven program dedicated to caring for the community’s feral cat population. Rather than allowing the population to grow unmanaged, the program follows the responsible Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) approach, which is one of the most effective methods for managing feral cat colonies.
Historically, municipalities and/or communities relied on catching and euthanizing feral cats to control numbers. However, modern research shows this method is entirely ineffective due to a natural phenomenon known as the “vacuum effect”. When cats are removed from an area, it creates an environmental void. New, unsterilized cats quickly move in to exploit the available food and shelter. These newcomers breed rapidly, causing the population to rebound to its original size—or even increase. Euthanasia creates a costly, endless cycle of trapping and killing without ever reducing the population long-term.
TNR breaks this cycle. Through this proven program, feral cats are safely trapped, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and ear-tipped (a small clip on the tip of one ear) to identify them as having been sterilized. Many cats are also microchipped when appropriate. Once they have recovered, healthy feral cats are returned to their familiar outdoor environment where they continue to live without contributing to population growth.
Maintaining a managed colony provides several major benefits to the Litchfield by the Sea community:
- Nuisance reduction: Cats fed on a regular schedule are less likely to search through trash cans.
- Behavior improves: Sterilization immediately stops loud mating fights, yowling, and foul-smelling territorial spraying.
- Public health protection: Mandatory rabies vaccinations create a barrier against disease transmission to humans and pets.
- Natural population control: A stable, monitored colony discourages new, unsterilized cats from moving into the area due to cats being territorial by nature.
The success of the LBTS Feral Cat Program depends on dedicated volunteers who help provide daily food and monitor the cats’ well-being. The program is managed by Laura Branchini, who has an extreme love for the program and experience helping LBTS to properly manage the number of feral cats in our community. We are currently seeking additional volunteers who are willing to assist with daily feeding. Even a small amount of your time can make a meaningful difference in maintaining the health of the colony and supporting this important community effort.
In addition, we are searching for loving forever homes for two adorable, socialized, male kittens who are approximately two pounds each. Before adoption, both kittens will be neutered, dewormed, and receive their appropriate vaccinations, ensuring they are healthy and ready to join their new families.
If you would like to volunteer, adopt one (or both) of the kittens, or learn more about the LBTS Feral Cat Program, please scroll to the bottom for the flyer which contains photos of the kittens and contact information for Laura Branchini. Your support helps us continue providing a safe, effective, and responsible solution for managing the Litchfield by the Sea feral cat population.
Sincerly,
Brooke Barber
Communications Manager
Maintenance News & Project Updates:
Each day, your LBTS Management Team coordinates and performs many small & large repairs across both campuses. However, when larger projects may impact owners/guests, we will provide details regarding those projects so you can plan accordingly. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work to maintain and improve your community.
Litchfield-By-The-Sea
- Upcoming Boardwalk Project
Maintenance is scheduled to begin next week on the boardwalk as part of the ongoing efforts to preserve and improve the structure for long-term safety and durability. We are doing this to avoid more traffic. To minimize disruption, the boardwalk will always remain open during the project. Work will be completed in 16-foot sections to allow continued pedestrian access while repairs are underway.
- Crosswalk Improvements
Our Maintenance Team has been actively repairing sinkholes that have developed near several crosswalks throughout the community. As part of this ongoing work, crews are also resetting pavers to restore safe and even walking surfaces, these repairs are still in progress.
- Main Guard House Counters
Work is underway at the Main Guard House as part of ongoing improvements to our facilities. The existing countertops have been removed, and installation of new countertops is currently in progress.
- Pressure Washing
Our Maintenance Team has continued its property enhancement efforts by pressure washing all guard gates, the curbs behind the Main Entrance, and the curbs at Compass Point. This ongoing project helps maintain the clean, welcoming appearance of our community. Pressure washing will continue throughout Litchfield by The Sea as our team works to refresh additional areas across the property.
- Repaired Outdoor Showers
Our Maintenance Team recently repaired the outdoor showers at the Beach Club, including the middle and south showers, as well repairing the Bridgewater beach access shower, this shower is still in progress for repairs. These repairs help ensure our beach amenities remain clean, functional, and ready for residents and guests to enjoy.
- Osprey Watch Lake Update
Fountain C has successfully passed inspection and is currently awaiting the installation of the electrical meter. Once the meter has been installed and activated, the fountain will be placed into service
Please note: Our Maintenance Team routinely removes trash and debris from the beach to help keep our shoreline clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. We kindly remind all residents and guests, whether visiting the Beach Club or any area of the beach, to please use the trash cans when disposing of waste. Your cooperation helps protect our beautiful coastline, preserves local wildlife, and keeps Litchfield by The Sea clean for everyone to enjoy.
River Club
Currently, there are no new updates to report regarding projects at River Club. Our Maintenance Team is scheduled to resume work next week, and we look forward to sharing progress and improvements in the next edition of the newsletter.
Lake Osprey Engineering Study
Please be advised that ECS, a Marine Engineering firm, will be on site this coming Tuesday, July 14, to evaluate the Lake Osprey shoreline. The engineers have been engaged by the LBTS Board of Directors to perform the following work:
- Assess all bulkheads and natural shoreline areas.
- Document current conditions for the lake and provide:
- an estimate of the remaining useful life of the bulkheads
- repair/replacement recommendations for the bulkheads
- erosion prevention/restoration recommendations for the natural shoreline
Once we receive the final report from ECS, we can create a phased repair plan with estimated costs. This is important information that the Board will need for project planning and budgeting. We will share updates with the community as soon as this information becomes available. Thank you for your cooperation as we work to maintain and improve our community’s common assets.
Landscaping News and Updates
The following landscape maintenance update is provided by our Landscape Maintenance Partner, United Land Services, to ensure we meet the needs of the community and address any issues caused by weather, pests/bugs, accidents, etc.
LBTS Common Area Landscape Maintenance
Turf Grass Mowing and Ponds
- Completed all mowing and weed eating on both campuses this week.
- Mowing will continue daily on both properties (LBTS & River Club).
- Mowing and weed eating will continue weekly in Compass
Ornamental Detailing
- Detailing around Beach Club
- We continued trimming the shrubs at the south entrance of the community this week.
- We replaced some flowers that died in the community this week.
- We contiuned trimming the shrubs around the Beach Club house this week.
Fertilization, Weed Control & Pest Services
- Weeds were sprayed throughout the entire property in LBTS.
- Weeds were sprayed throughout entire property in River Club.
- We sprayed all the weeds around the Beach Club.
- We fertilized all the flowers in LBTS & River Club this week.
Irrigation Inspections & Maintenance
- System will be routinely inspected for operational efficiency and condition.
- Visual inspection will include controller and electronic components, spray and rotor heads and shrub risers.
- Minor adjustments for efficiency will be made during inspection.
- Repairs for malfunctioning, broken or worn-out components (heads, line breaks, controllers and electronics, pumps, etc.) will be done after client approval.
On the Security Scene
Independence Day Weekend Recap
Thank you to residents, guests, and our Allied Universal Security (AUS) team for a safe Independence Day weekend. Additional officers were deployed at the main gate and throughout the Ocean side campus. No significant safety incidents were reported. We also appreciate everyone’s patience with gate congestion and their cooperation in using the North and South gates to help ease Main Gate backups.
Summer Safety Reminders
With peak summer temperatures and beach activity in full swing, please continue to:
- Stay hydrated and limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
- Supervise children closely at all amenities, including pools and docks
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife near lagoons, marshes, and wooded areas
- Drive cautiously and observe the 25-mph community speed limit, watching for pedestrians and cyclists
Thank you for helping keep Litchfield By The Sea safe, secure, and enjoyable for everyone this summer.
LBTS Social Events, Activities, & Community Outreach
07/14/2026– Live Music– 5:00PM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle, Pawleys Island
07/15/2026– Tai Chi– 10:00AM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle, Pawleys Island
07/15/2026– Tibetan Singing Bowl– 5:30PM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle,
Pawleys Island | Enjoy at a unique Singing Bowl Meditation| $10 per person at the door.
07/16/2026- Yoga– 9:30AM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle, Pawleys Island
07/16/2026– Chair Yoga– 11:00AM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle, Pawleys Island
FUN Events Happening Around Town
NADD Dock Diving Event July 9th – July 12th 1:00PM-6:00PM
The NADD Dock Diving Event in Murrells Inlet is an exciting canine competition where dogs of all breeds leap from a 40-foot dock into a pool to retrieve a toy. Hosted by North America Diving Dogs at A Dog’s Way Inlet Flyers, the event features disciplines like Distance Jump, Air Retrieve, and Hydro Dash. Open to both purebred and mixed-breed dogs, it’s a fun-filled weekend celebrating the athleticism and teamwork between dogs and their handlers.
Location: 761 Pendergrass Ave, Murrells Inlet SC 29576
WillBrook One Day July 13th
This event is a one-day junior golf competition designed to help young golfers gain tournament experience. Players compete in stroke play on the scenic Lowcountry course, making it a great opportunity to develop skills, build confidence, and enjoy a day of friendly competition.
Location: 426 Tidewater Circle, Pawleys Island SC 29585, WillBrook Plantation Golf Course
Litchfield CC One Day July 14th
This event is a is a one-day junior golf competition hosted by the South Carolina Junior Golf Association. Young golfers compete in a stroke-play format, providing an excellent opportunity to gain tournament experience while playing one of the area’s premier golf courses.
Location: 619 Country Club Drive, Pawleys Island SC 29585, Litchfield Country Club Golf Course
Women’s Surf Fishing Clinic July 17th 4:30PM-7:30PM
This event is an educational hands-on program designed to introduce women to the exciting sport of surf fishing. Participants will learn the basics of casting, bait selection, fishing techniques, local regulations, and beach safety from experienced instructors in a welcoming and supportive environment. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this clinic offers a great opportunity to gain confidence, enjoy South Carolina’s beautiful coastline, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts while learning about the area’s unique coastal ecosystem.
Location: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet SC 29576, Huntington Beach State Park
