Nature’s Classroom

Each year, schoolchildren in Georgetown County, South Carolina, experience a day of environmental education and adventure on the waters of Winyah Bay, thanks to a collaboration between the North Inlet-Winyah Bay and ACE Basin Reserves, as well as the University of South Carolina’s Baruch Marine Field Laboratory and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). This program, now in its second decade, gives students an opportunity to explore local ecosystems, connect with nature, and consider future careers in environmental science.

The day begins at the Hobcaw Barony Discovery Center, where participants split up—one group heads out on the boat and the other to the Center. Halfway through the day, the groups switch spots so that everybody gets to experience both the land and waters of Winyah Bay. 

“For many of the students, this is their first time seeing their local, coastal environment from the water,” says Beth Thomas, education coordinator at the North Inlet-Winyah Bay Reserve. “Getting out on the boat gives students a unique view on the local waterways, observing the salt marshes and wildlife from a new perspective.”

On land, students participate in activities that are designed to complement what they experience on the water. Over the past few decades, this education program has become a highlight for many students and teachers from schools in the area.

“We had an amazing time,” says one former participant and teacher. “It made everything we learned about in class suddenly become real.” 

“Our students were able to be scientists, not just read about it in a book,” says another.

The program’s longevity is a testament to its success—it has provided meaningful, nature-based experiences for students in Georgetown County for over a decade. Participants have the possibility to learn about different career paths in environmental science, as well as the Reserves’ scientific work, such as the System-Wide Monitoring Program (SWMP), which tracks short-term changes and long-term trends in weather and water quality conditions. 

It is also free, thanks to the Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation’s Grants for the Common Good, which have funded this program since 2013, allowing the Educational Vessel Discovery to travel to Georgetown for the week and providing lodging for ACE Basin Reserve staff. The Georgetown Landing Marina has generously accommodated them with dock space each year, and the Belle W. Baruch Foundation allows students to board the boat at Hobcaw House pier located on the Winyah Bay during their visit to Hobcaw Barony.

Some teachers have gone on to participate in other educational programs like Teachers on the Estuary (TOTE), which offers professional development in environmental education and further engage their students in estuary field field studies after learning about the resources at the Reserves.

The collaboration is key to the program’s success. SCDNR provides recognition, while the Reserves contribute their educational and scientific knowledge. By working together, the partners are also able to increase exposure to their respective organizations and resources.

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