Join Amber Von Harten, certified SC Master Naturalist and marine scientist, for a natural history excursion through some of the coastal habitats of SCDNR's Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve/ Wildlife Management Area. The excursion will immerse participants in barrier island ecology and demonstrate how these islands are constantly shifting and moving bringing a diversity of plants and animals. We'll observe migrating songbirds and shorebirds and walk the famous "boneyard" beach to learn about the flora and fauna of intertidal, dune, and salt marsh habitats. After lunch, we'll explore the maritime forests of the interior of the island to see majestic live oaks, Fall blooming plants, tidal creeks and impoundments, and learn about how the property is managed to preserve both its natural and cultural resources.
What are POWR+ classes? Due to the demand for our Palmetto Outdoors Women Retreat, we have added (+) new one-day workshops across the state. POWR+ events are open to all women whether you have attended the retreat or have yet to do so.
What to Bring:
Bring binoculars/camera, bug spray, sunscreen, a hat, and wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Also, bring lunch and plenty of water to stay fueled and hydrated.
What to Expect:
We will be walking approximately 2 miles in soft sand and doing some short forays along the roadside of the maritime forests on the interior of the island. Mosquitoes and sand gnats are expected so feel free to bring lightweight long-sleeve/pants attire to layer. Also, there are no restrooms on site so please plan accordingly.
A gentle reminder that no natural items or cultural artifacts may be collected or removed from Botany Bay WMA (including the beach); this includes shells, fossils, pottery, plants, fungi, etc.
Bio:
For over 20 years, Amber has worked across state and federal agencies, and global non-profit marine conservation organizations aiming to develop research and education programs that support sustainable fisheries and marine ecosystems. Most recently, she has expanded her conservation focus to work in the field of botany and native plants. This new focus has allowed her to get involved as a board member of the Lowcountry Chapter of the SC Native Plant Society and pursue this work in her role as the Operations Manager at Roots and Shoots Nursery, a native plant and edible plant nursery located in Charleston, SC. Her passions for birding, fishing, gardening, hiking, and learning about ecology have defined both her professional career and personal interests and she loves to share this with others to connect them with the natural world.
Location: Botany Bay Heritate Preserve
Cost: The cost is $100 per person and limited to the first 12 women that register.
SCWF reserves the right to cancel any event, due to unforeseen circumstances, extreme weather, low registration, or pandemic-related guidance from local/state officials. Any cancellation by SCWF will result in a full refund for all registrants.