Tuesday, March 18, 2014

South Carolina Field Trips: How to Lead Nature Walks


Barrier Island Eco Tours
50 41st Avenue
Isle of Palms, SC 29451
843.886.5000


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Testimonials

"A special thanks to Shane Ziegler of Barrier Island Eco Tours, Isle of Palms, for sharing his invaluable insights and vast knowledge about the Lowcountry, its wildlife and ecosystem. And the tours are fabulous!"

-Mary Alice Monroe, Author of The Beach House

Barrier Island Ecotours is hands down worth a trip to Charleston to experience. The sights of the salt marsh and all it has to offer is worth every penny. Where else can you experience up close and personally all the marine and terrestrial wildlife the estuaries and capers island has to offer? From dolphins, crabs, deer, allligators, abundant fish, you will have a blast being entertained by the outdoors. Every trip is a surprise because you don't know what you will encounter. If you want peace and relaxation at the same time of excitement these are the trips for you and your family and friends of any ages. Ask the naturalists and they will tell you the hot spots of where to go and what trips are best suited for your group.

-Lee Sparwasser

As Charleston locals, my family has the incredible opportunity to go on a nature tour with Barrier Island Ecotours at least once a summer and often times, more! With their many options like crabbing trips, dolphin excursions, sunset cruises, etc., we always have a great time and it's never the same trip twice. The captains handle the boats with precision, and the naturalists have an incredible amount of knowledge and keep everyone entertained and laughing. And then there's the fishing charters! Our daughter LOVES fishing with Mr. Shane, and every time we've been out, she's caught enough fish to make her ask almost every day when we can go again. I highly recommend Barrier Island Ecotours for visitors and locals alike...

- Michael Schumpert

How to Lead Nature Walks

So your team picked you to be the leader on a simple (or high-level) nature walk and you have no idea what to do. I mean, you may know the trail or the general area but what does it need to give your group the nature walk they will never forget?

1.    It helps to read up on the plants and animals that can be found locally along the trail. Everybody loves it when you can identify plants and animals just by looking.

2.    Take a hike on the trail prior to the trip and notice any unusual things in the area. Are there things present along the trail that might interest your group?

3.    Prior to the trip, check your group and assess their physical limitations. You might need to change some parts of the hike to accommodate different people.

4.    Before the walk, take time to introduce yourself to your group. Hand out maps and relevant handouts to your group. Answer all relevant questions from your group regarding the hike. This is also a good time to point out comfort facilities and to suggest rest stops before you head off to your hike.

5.    Take time to introduce members of the group to each other. This way, they will feel more comfortable with each other.

6.    Ask your group what they would be more interested in viewing. Tailor your hike to their interests. If they are geared towards plants then be more specific in pointing out the flora in the area.
1.    During the tour, don’t just “talk” to people. Ask questions and let them ask questions back. Let them engage and do not just passively guide them throughout the hike.

2.    Don’t shy away from doing demonstrations during the hike. Always make sure you have their full attention every demonstration.

3.    Always check your group and be wary of stragglers. The occasional head count will do wonders here.

4.     Focus on the interests of kids if you have them in your group. They will be the ones more interested in the sights during the hike.

5.    Leave No Trace. Teach your group the basic rule: Leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but pictures.  



Scientific Process and Inquiry Skills are promoted and reinforced throughout the field trip as students learn about organisms, habitats, communities, and ecosystems, as well as the environmental and geological factors that influence them.

The first part of our South Carolina field trips will be spent on the boat exploring the tidal creeks of the salt marsh. Depending on the grade level of the group, different topics will be discussed including: Spartina grass and its role, plant/animal species identification, adaptations, oyster bed communities, species diversity, marsh hammock ecology, geology of the salt marsh, and the importance of the salt marsh to humans and the Atlantic Ocean.

The students are able to experience and learn about marine life as their knowledgeable and well versed naturalist pulls crab and habitat traps. The specimens caught are put into an aquarium and discussed by your naturalist. Common catches include sponges, sea whip, brittle stars, mud crabs, blue crabs, stone crabs, peppermint shrimp, decorator crabs, goby fish, toad fish, and an occasional octopus or horseshoe crab.

The second part of the trip will be spent on the beach at Capers Island State Heritage Preserve. With over 2000 acres, Capers Island is a pristine barrier island which was bought by South Carolina in 1975 for the purpose of preserving it in its natural state.

If you are looking for an educational field trip your students will never forget, you must give Barrier Island eco tours a call.  Our school programs are aligned with the South Carolina Curriculum Science Standard.     

                                
                                 Learn More about our South Carolina Field Trips Here


Contact Information

Barrier Island Eco-Tours
50 41st Avenue
Isle of Palms, SC 29451
843.886.5000


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Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Crabbing in Charleston SC


Barrier Island Eco Tours

50 41st Avenue
Isle of Palms, SC 29451
843.886.5000


Facebook

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Testimonials

"A special thanks to Shane Ziegler of Barrier Island Eco Tours, Isle of Palms, for sharing his invaluable insights and vast knowledge about the Lowcountry, its wildlife and ecosystem. And the tours are fabulous!"

-Mary Alice Monroe, Author of The Beach House

Barrier Island Ecotours is hands down worth a trip to Charleston to experience. The sights of the salt marsh and all it has to offer is worth every penny. Where else can you experience up close and personally all the marine and terrestrial wildlife the estuaries and capers island has to offer? From dolphins, crabs, deer, allligators, abundant fish, you will have a blast being entertained by the outdoors. Every trip is a surprise because you don't know what you will encounter. If you want peace and relaxation at the same time of excitement these are the trips for you and your family and friends of any ages. Ask the naturalists and they will tell you the hot spots of where to go and what trips are best suited for your group.

-Lee Sparwasser

As Charleston locals, my family has the incredible opportunity to go on a nature tour with Barrier Island Ecotours at least once a summer and often times, more! With their many options like crabbing trips, dolphin excursions, sunset cruises, etc., we always have a great time and it's never the same trip twice. The captains handle the boats with precision, and the naturalists have an incredible amount of knowledge and keep everyone entertained and laughing. And then there's the fishing charters! Our daughter LOVES fishing with Mr. Shane, and every time we've been out, she's caught enough fish to make her ask almost every day when we can go again. I highly recommend Barrier Island Ecotours for visitors and locals alike...

- Michael Schumpert

Catching Crabs by Hand
Crabbing with a Net
The most basic crabbing technique (in regards to devices needed) is the dip net. With a long-handled web you can wade a cove or shoreline, on foot or from a watercraft. When you detect a crab you dip and net it. Put your catch in a basket or cooler. This method requires higher persistence and hand-eye coordination than the line approach.

Drop Lining or Chicken Neckin'.
This is catching crabs by hand on a sing line (or string) with lure tied to the end of it- usually chicken necks.

Exactly what you will require:

·         A line (ball of string) - string is simple on the hands to control and pull in – and the crabs truly do not care what you use.
·         A little stick - (perhaps 8-12 inches long) to tie your line to.
·         Bait - raw poultry necks or raw fish heads. Most local supermarket hold poultry parts you can use for crabbing. Some crabbers vouch by bull lips Others make use of salted eel. Bait shops and dockside fish markets will also offer you remaining fish heads. Crabs will virtually consume any raw meat but these are what many individuals make use of.
·         A little net - to assist in wrangling those ornery critters.
·         A cooler, a tall bucket, or a bushel basket with a lid - for your catch – Some folks keep their crabs in a live well in the water, which helps them to live longer.
·         Gloves - to wear when handling the crabs.
·         A buddy - due to the fact that two sets of hands are much better than one - and it is always more fun and safer on the water with a pal along.
·         A ruler - or some other way to measure the size of your catch



What to do:
·         When you get to your crabbing area, tie one end of a 5-6 foot line on to your stick.
·         Tie a piece of your lure safely at the other end of your line.
·         Drop your bait into the water holding securely onto your stick.
·         Wait for the tug of the crab eating your bait.
·         When you feel a nibble, gradually raise the line to the surface area. Go slowly and attempt not to terrify the crab. Carefully reel in your line wrapping it around your stick up until the crab is hanging in the air.
·         Either drop the crab into your container or use your web to get your prey and then drop it in the bucket from the net
·         Crabs ought to not lack water or air for too long. Crabs can reside in coolers with ice since the ice reduces their system. Never prepare and consume a dead crab.

Consume your crabs the exact same day that you catch them.

Crab Traps
Collapsible crab traps are made use of in a comparable method to a drop line. They can be acquired at many bait stores or hardware establishments on the Eastern Shore.
Always remember, you'll still need something to keep your catch in.

·         Fasten your lure to the bottom of the trap.
·         Fasten a tough line to the trap.
·         Lower the trap from a dock or boat.
·         When a crab enters to feed, pull the string and trap the crab. Then raise it ashore and drop into your pail or basket.


Crabbing in Charleston SC


Learn to catch crabs the old fashioned way, with a hand line and chicken neck. We will venture by boat to an excellent crabbing spot, teach you about the intriguing life history of the blue crab, and then catch, cook, clean and consume these tasty crustaceans. Our crab boil takes place on the beach of Capers Island. A fantastic trip for the family. This may very well be the freshest seafood you will ever eat!

NOTE:
IF THIS TRIP IS FULL PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL US AT 843-886-5000 FOR ALTERNATIVE TRIP OPTIONS. THIS TRIP IS AVAILABLE AS A PRIVATE CHARTER AS WELL.

WEATHER POLICY-PLEASE SHOW UP UNLESS YOU HEAR FROM US. ISOLATED, POP-UP THUNDERSTORMS ARE COMMON IN THE SUMMER MONTHS AND MAY DELAY THE TRIP BY A FEW MINUTES OR MAY MISS US COMPLETELY. WE WILL CONTACT YOU IF THE TRIP IS CANCELLED, OTHERWISE PLEASE PLAN ON CHECKING IN AT THE SCHEDULED TIME.


We offer naturalist guided boat excursions to Capers Island State Heritage Preserve, one of the last undeveloped barrier islands. Our fleet consists of: the Callinectes, a 40 passenger covered pontoon; the Sayana, a 22 passenger covered pontoon; the Marsh Mama, a 26 foot, 16 passenger Carolina Skiff; and the Cut Mullet, a 23 foot, 6 passenger bay style boat. All of our boats are available for private, customized charters as well.



Get a Copy of our Latest Brochure Here


Contact Information

Barrier Island Eco-Tours
50 41st Avenue
Isle of Palms, SC 29451
843.886.5000


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Sunday, September 15, 2013

Isle of Palms Fishing


Barrier Island Eco Tours

50 41st Avenue
Isle of Palms, SC 29451
843.886.5000


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Testimonials

"A special thanks to Shane Ziegler of Barrier Island Eco Tours, Isle of Palms, for sharing his invaluable insights and vast knowledge about the Lowcountry, its wildlife and ecosystem. And the tours are fabulous!"

-Mary Alice Monroe, Author of The Beach House

Barrier Island Ecotours is hands down worth a trip to Charleston to experience. The sights of the salt marsh and all it has to offer is worth every penny. Where else can you experience up close and personally all the marine and terrestrial wildlife the estuaries and capers island has to offer? From dolphins, crabs, deer, allligators, abundant fish, you will have a blast being entertained by the outdoors. Every trip is a surprise because you don't know what you will encounter. If you want peace and relaxation at the same time of excitement these are the trips for you and your family and friends of any ages. Ask the naturalists and they will tell you the hot spots of where to go and what trips are best suited for your group.

-Lee Sparwasser

As Charleston locals, my family has the incredible opportunity to go on a nature tour with Barrier Island Ecotours at least once a summer and often times, more! With their many options like crabbing trips, dolphin excursions, sunset cruises, etc., we always have a great time and it's never the same trip twice. The captains handle the boats with precision, and the naturalists have an incredible amount of knowledge and keep everyone entertained and laughing. And then there's the fishing charters! Our daughter LOVES fishing with Mr. Shane, and every time we've been out, she's caught enough fish to make her ask almost every day when we can go again. I highly recommend Barrier Island Ecotours for visitors and locals alike...

- Michael Schumpert


Scheduled Trips

We offer naturalist guided boat excursions to Capers Island State Heritage Preserve, one of the last undeveloped barrier islands. Our fleet consists of: the Callinectes, a 40 passenger covered pontoon; the Sayana, a 22 passenger covered pontoon; the Marsh Mama, a 26 foot, 16 passenger Carolina Skiff; and the Cut Mullet, a 23 foot, 6 passenger bay style boat. All of our boats are available for private, customized charters as well.


Capers Wild Life Exploration
Enjoy a 3.5 hour boat excursion as we venture to Capers Island, one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands. We will cruise through winding tidal creeks to find diverse wildlife living in this salt marsh environment. Common sightings include bottlenose dolphin, osprey, pelicans, bald eagles, herons, egrets, and more. Along the way we'll employ various nets and habitat traps for an up-close look at some of the rarely seen marine creatures that thrive below the surface. As you arrive on Capers, you will have about an hour and a half to explore its pristine "Bone-yard Beach" and interior freshwater ponds. Capers provides excellent opportunities for shelling and bird watching.


Dolphin Discovery Sunset Cruise
Join our naturalist on a search and discovery mission on this 2.5 hour boat excursion to encounter the fascinating bottlenose dolphin and loggerhead sea turtle. Bottlenose dolphins are a common resident of our salt marshes and inlets behind the barrier islands. As you observe the dolphins feeding, playing, or simply cruising around in their native environment you will learn all about their social behavior, feeding habits, and much more. Also learn about the life history of threatened loggerhead sea turtle which we often catch sight of during the summer months. You will also have about 1 hour to get off the boat and explore Capers Island's "Bone-yard Beach". 


Blue Crabbing Excursion
We will venture by boat to an excellent crabbing spot, teach you about the intriguing life history of the blue crab, and then catch, cook, clean and consume these tasty crustaceans. Our crab boil takes place on the beach of Capers Island. A fantastic trip for the family. This may very well be the freshest seafood you will ever eat!


Creek Fishing
Our experienced captain will take you to a few of his hot spots back in the salt marsh. This is fun-fishing at its best with light tackle and plenty of action. This is a perfect fishing trip for families and our guides are great with kids! Catches include redfish, trout, flounder, shark, rays, ladyfish, and more. Fresh bait, license, and all tackle provided.


Marine Biology Day Camp
We will take you to Capers Island where you will see, touch, and learn about the interesting creatures that live along our shores. You will have a chance to throw a cast net, crab, explore the salt marsh, spend time observing bottlenose dolphins and catch animals to put in our touch-tank. We will also grill hot dogs and enjoy peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips, cookies and watermelon for lunch on the beach. Bottled waters are included.


Charleston Harbor History and Maritime Mystery
Departing from the Isle of Palms Marina, enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the intracoastal waterway to the historic Charleston Harbor. We will cruise the tidal creeks along the back side of Sullivans Island, into the Charleston Harbor, and along the banks of Mt. Pleasant's “Old Village”.

Your guide will entertain you with historic facts and accounts through stories ranging from Native Americans and the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, to past and present land owners in the area. Your Historian is also a Naturalist and time will be spent observing dolphins and discovering other wildlife. Coolers welcome.

HAPPY National Estuaries Day
Information and Facts

Like a tide of recognition regarding the state of our estuaries, National Estuaries Day rolls in every last Weekend on the month of September. This year National Estuaries Day will be commemorated September 28, 2013.

National Estuaries Day was developed in 1988 as component of Coast Weeks, this annual occasion is the inspiration for all those that adore and care for our nation's estuaries.

The function of National Estuaries Day is to advertise the relevance of estuaries and the have to shield them.

It is also the event for a public-awareness project to notify individuals from shore to coast about their link to these lovely locations and exactly how they could urge its healthy and balanced future.

Numerous National Estuaries Day activities develop across the country, from digital photography competitions in Florida, canoe trips in Washington, estuary clean-ups in North Carolina, exhibits at state resources, directed estuary trips in Texas, to festivals in California.

Since its inception in 1988, National Estuary Day experiences strengthened the partnership between the National Estuary Program (NEP) and the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS). The 2 programs secure greater than 50 estuarine environments that have been government designated as living sources.

Assist spread out the word that estuaries are vital to migratory species; provide crucial habitat for a range of aquatic plants and pets; aid stop coastal disintegration; are necessary entertainment and traveler locations; which estuaries are vital for our future and the wellness of the oceans.


Isle of Palms Fishing Trips - The Best Charleston Fishing Charters


We offer excellent inshore fishing opportunities year round to help you experience fishing in the Charleston at a whole new level.


Departing from the Isle of Palms Marina, within minutes you are in pristine salt marshes and tidal flats. The waters surrounding the Isle of Palms are one of the most productive areas along the east coast for redfish, speckled trout, flounder, shark and many others. Our salt marsh eco-system in Charleston creates a “nutrient rich soup” which provides the basis of the food chain for many species of fish. In the warmer months it is possible to catch over 10 species during one outing. All necessary tackle, licenses and supplies are provided on every trip.

Our fleet consists of a 6 passenger 23 foot bay boat, a 3 passenger flats boat for shallow water fishing targeting redfish, and a 12 passenger 27 foot Carolina Skiff for larger groups. We work closely with several of the top guides that also run out of the Isle of Palms Marina and can put together groups of 50 or more. Our captains are well experienced, patient, friendly, and have a deep passion for what they do. We cater to those who want a relaxed fishing trip with plenty of action. Our guides take extra care with kids making sure they have the best experience possible. When taking a fishing charter with Barrier Island EcoTours, you get more than just a fishing trip. Our guides are also naturalists and while catching fish, you will also gain knowledge about the dynamics of the salt marsh.





Contact Information

Barrier Island Eco-Tours
50 41st Avenue
Isle of Palms, SC 29451
843.886.5000


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