Early Summer 2005

Table of Contents

SAFEKEEPERS:
River, Harbor Pilots Help Ensure Safe Passage

Follow a harbor pilot as he steps from his boat onto a U.S. Navy ship to guide it into the Port of Morehead City. Ann Green also shares the history — and current “homeland security” duties — of the state’s river and harbor pilots.

ATLANTIC WHITE CEDAR:
Restoration Connects Coastal Culture to Environment

Early coastal residents may have found too many uses for Atlantic white cedar — shingles, siding and boatbuilding. Lilly Loughner reveals how the species — also known as juniper — and its pocosin habitat are on a comeback in Tyrrell County.

TRAWLING FOR ANSWERS:
Study Examines Bycatch Rates in Southeastern North Carolina

Bycatch from shrimp trawling is a hotly debated topic in Southeastern North Carolina. Kathleen Angione joins two Fishery Resource Grant researchers examining bycatch rates in Pender, New Hanover and Brunswick counties.

NATURALIST’S NOTEBOOK:
Agile Acrobats

Whether “bound sliding” in the wild or turning flips at an aquarium, river otters are known for their antics. Ryan Reynolds gives the rundown on these myopic mammals.

SEA SCIENCE:
Onboard Handling Techniques Key to Safer Seafood

Seafood safety starts on the boat. Ann Green highlights a new program to educate commercial fishing and charter boat captains about preventing histamine poisoning in bluefish, tuna and other scombroid species.

PEOPLE & PLACES:
Jerry Schill Heads North

As he winds down his 18-year stint as president of the N.C. Fisheries Association, Jerry Schill reflects on the status of commercial fishing in the state. Soon, he and his wife, Pam, will return to Pennsylvania roots.