Discover treasures of the tides investigating the array of things you can find on the beach and learn about the purpose of the various structures seen along the shore. This program will explore best beach practices and encourage you to implore your sand scavenging skills whether you live at the beach or are just visiting.
January 14: Sand Scavengers-Discover treasures of the tides and learn about shells, shark teeth, and more. This interactive program will talk about beach friendly shell practices, finding tidal treasures, and how to keep the beach safe for animals and people.
On Jan 28: Sea Turtles-Sea turtles are frequent visitors to the North Carolina coast, with several individuals nesting on beaches from the Outer Banks to our own Ocean Isle Beach. Learn about the species of sea turtles in NC, how volunteers track sea turtle nests, and what we can do to protect sea turtles. Then, experience being a sea turtle scientist through our Sea Turtle Quest virtual reality program.
On Feb 11, the focus is on sharks and shark teeth. In this interactive program, explore the anatomy of a shark while busting misconceptions about sharks. Discover ways to find shark teeth and how to stay safe while swimming in the sea. The program will conclude with a fun craft to leave you wondering about sharks.
On Feb 25, join a discussion of the hardened structures found along our beaches. While highlighting features of groins, jetties, and sea walls, investigate the purpose of these structures and their environmental impact. Explore differences in each structure to understand how they help preserve the beach.
On March 11 we’ll be talking about lighthouses. North Carolina has long been known for its beacons of light that stretch from Currituck to Bald Head Island. This program will explore the development of lighthouses and how they have changed over time, the purpose lighthouses have served in NC, and some fun facts about each of these historic structures.
Mar 25 we’ll be studying ‘Beach Oddities’. Have you ever found something weird on the beach and wondered what it was? We will explore some of the unique objects commonly found on our beaches from whelk egg cases to mermaid purses to worm shells and more.
Join us each Saturday at 11:00 am for family programs designed by Jamie Justice, the Education Manager for the Museum of Coastal Carolina and Ingram Planetarium, who oversees all family programs. Justice received her Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from Bowling Green State University and her Master of Science in Environmental Science with concentrations in Marine and Coastal Education and Coastal Management from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.