Jacques Cousteau, the renowned French oceanographer and explorer, visited the May River in South Carolina in the early 1970s as part of his efforts to study and raise awareness about the importance of estuaries.

At the time, the May River was experiencing significant environmental challenges, including pollution from agricultural runoff and development, which was causing the decline of important shellfish populations and other aquatic species. Cousteau's visit to the region helped to shine a spotlight on these issues and catalyze efforts to protect and restore the estuary.

During his visit, Cousteau and his team explored the May River in one of his famous research vessels, the Calypso. They used underwater cameras and other equipment to document the conditions of the estuary and study the various species that lived there.

Cousteau also met with local residents and government officials to discuss the environmental challenges facing the region and the importance of preserving the natural resources of the May River. His visit helped to raise awareness about the need for environmental protection and restoration efforts, and helped to galvanize support for these efforts in the years that followed.

Today, the May River remains an important estuary and habitat for a variety of species, including shrimp, oysters, and other shellfish. Efforts to protect and restore the estuary have been ongoing, and the region continues to benefit from the legacy of Cousteau's visit and his work to raise awareness about the importance of healthy and thriving estuaries.