Salt marsh estuaries of the North American Atlantic Coast are the most productive ecosystems on earth with regard to total biomass created within the system. While it has not been established scientifically, anecdotal evidence leads many to believe that the Port Royal Sound system is the most productive of these.
Estuaries are defined as coastal zones where fresh water rivers meet the sea. Most estuaries are fed by fairly large river systems which deliver a relatively constant flow of fresh water, maintaining a more or less stable brackish -— 0.5 to 29ppt salinity — zone through much of the system.
The Port Royal Sound system is the exception to the rule in that it is a high salinity estuary. The two small fresh water rivers that flow into it drain a relatively small watershed. The distance between the mouths of these rivers and the low volume of fresh water carried by them precludes the establishment of a contiguous and stable brackish zone. Salinity throughout the majority of the system averages 29 to 32 ppt — ocean salinity is at 35ppt.
Over the past 20 years the Lowcountry Estuarium and its predecessor the North Street Aquarium have introduced thousands of students as well as the general public to the wonders of this unique ecosystem. The following programs are designed to provide memorable hands-on learning experiences guaranteed to be a highlight of your group’s Lowcountry adventures in learning.
The World Between the Tides
The greatest salt marsh tidal ranges — distance between high and low tide lines — found between southern Maine and the Florida Keys occur in this estuarine system. The salt marsh intertidal zone is a world unto itself at low tide and to explore it with Lowcountry Estuarium staff is an eye-opening, if somewhat muddy, adventure of discovery.
Learn how the intertwined life cycles of oysters and marsh grass are central to the health and vitality of the estuary and all that inhabit it. Observe how an oyster rake is a living metropolis supporting billions of fulltime inhabitants and visitors alike.
As an added treat you’ll be able to search a dredge spoil beach for 50m year old shark teeth and fossils. Program length: one hour and 30 minutes. Fee $12.50 per person, driver and two group leaders complimentary. Note: Bookings are time of tide dependent.
Live Caught Wild American Shrimp
Introduction to the fascinating life cycles of white and brown shrimp harvested locally both commercially and recreationally. You will visit a local dock to observe shrimp boats and their rigging and learn how they operate.
Learn the health issues concerning foreign farm raised shrimp and what environmental issues threaten local wild shrimp habitat. The program will conclude with instruction on when, where and how to throw a cast net. Program length: one hour and 30 minutes. Fee $12.50 per person, driver and two group leaders complimentary.
What’s an Estuary?
PowerPoint presentation gives a basic understanding of estuaries in general before focusing on the unique nature of the Port Royal Sound Estuarine System. Included are videos guaranteed to entertain as they inform.
After a Q&A period there will be access to a touch table of dry specimens along with a traveling Estuarium table of live critters for viewing up close and personal.
Designed as an evening activity the presentation will take place in space provided by the overnight accommodations provider. May also be scheduled on relatively short notice should weather forecasts jeopardize planned outdoor activities. Program length: one hour and 30 minutes. Fee $150.
Nature, History, Culture
While the Lowcountry Estuarium’s programs provide a basic understanding of the natural foundation on which the region’s historical and cultural riches were built, there is so much more to see and do to gain a full appreciation of the unique character of the Lowcountry.
The City of Beaufort, towns of Port Royal, Hilton Head and Bluffton along with communities on the Sea Islands provide a wide variety of learning experiences. Coordinated itineraries bundle museum visits with beach walks; buggy tours, the arts and kayaking; nature trails, tour boat excursions and local seafood.
Over the years the Lowcountry Estuarium has established partnerships with most of our regions attractions, venues and group service providers. Our friends include the Coastal Discovery Museum, Penn Center, Hunting Island State Park, Lowcountry Institute and Arts Council of Beaufort County among the many. Let us help you plan and book an unforgettable adventure in learning.