The Boardwalk Talk series is a free, public program on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, at 11:15 a.m. Come to the Estuarium to participate in a dialog with the experts, including researchers, graduate students, post docs, educators, aquarists and technicians. These informal chats encompass a broad range of science topics.
Fun for the whole family!
For All Ages (Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult)
Program Cost: $12 per person. Space is limited so reservations are recommended.
Reservation Form
Time and location: 9:45-12:15, meet at the Estuarium
Questions: E-mail summerexcursions@disl.org or call (251) 861-2141 ext. 7545.
SALT MARSH SUMMER EXCURSION
2018 Dates: June 14, June 28, July 12, July 19, and July 26
DISL reserves the right to cancel in case of inclement weather or if there is insufficient participation.
Salt marshes are not monotonous expanses of grass; they’re fascinating coastal wetlands that are critical to our estuary system. Be a marine scientist for a day, and use seine nets, buckets, shovels, and sieve boxes to collect samples, including crabs, snails, and fish (we’ll release animals back to the marsh). You’ll learn about the important role salt marshes play in the Gulf of Mexico and how they support the seafood we enjoy.
After meeting at the Estuarium, you’ll be transported by bus to the Dauphin Island salt marsh to explore this vital ecosystem.
What to wear: Proper footwear is very important for your safety and enjoyment. Because of sharp oyster shells, participants are advised to wear closed-toe shoes that tie or strap on, such as old tennis shoes. Please no flip-flops, Crocs or rubber boots as they get ‘eaten’ by the marsh mud. Wear clothes that can get wet and muddy. Showers and changing facilities will be available after the marsh trip.
What to bring: hat, sunscreen, water bottle, change of clothes and shoes, bag for muddy items
BEACH DUNE AND MARITIME FOREST EXCURSION
2018 Dates: May 31, June 5, June 21, and July 3
DISL reserves the right to cancel in case of inclement weather or if there is insufficient participation.
There’s more to a barrier island than sand and water – the beach is a thriving habitat with a dynamic dune system and fascinating plants and animals, and higher elevations are covered by lush forest. We’ll walk through the maritime forest, then on to the dunes and beach.
You will learn about plants that Indians and colonists used and the benefits of an intact dune system. You’ll see many coastal animals; occasional highlights include osprey, alligators and dolphins. You’ll dig for mole crabs that live in the surf zone and chase scuttling ghost crabs. We’ll bring hand nets and critter containers so we can get an up-close look.
What to wear: Comfortable walking shoes for beach and forest. Light-weight clothes for hot summer temperatures. If you’re eager to get wet, feel free to dress accordingly, though getting wet can be avoided.
What to bring: hat, sunscreen, water bottle, bug spray, change of clothes and shoes, bag for wet items
Mobile Delta Tank, Mobile Bay Tank, and Gulf of Mexico Tank
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 11:00 am
Ray of the Bay Tank
Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4 p.m.
Sunday: 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.
** Times subject to change based on employee availability and weather. **
