Early Summer 2006

Table of Contents

MOREHEAD CITY’S CHANGING WATERFRONT

The number of commercial fishing boats has declined, charter boats are  increasing, and new redevelopment projects are starting up. Ann Green joins a long-time resident on a tour of Morehead City’s colorful and changing waterfront.

HURRICANE FRAN:
Memories and Lessons

A decade has passed since Hurricane Fran’s winds and rain took a toll from the coast to the capital city. Ann Green talks with town officials and experts to explore changes since the storm, including building code updates, beach recovery and new coastal insurance options.

HEALTHY AS A HORSE

The wild horses of Shackleford Banks have thrived for decades despite the harsh island environment. Kathleen Angione joins a team of researchers as they examine the ponies’ diet and try to answer the question: “What are they eating out there?”

HARD-WORKING HODSON RETIRES JUNE 30:
“What You See Is What You Get”

Ronald Hodson has given 33 years of service to the North Carolina’s coast and its people. His eagerness to work and his ability to listen continue to earn him praise. Katie Mosher looks at his career.

SEA SCIENCE:
Worth a Thousand Words

Is coastal development affecting blue crab populations? To answer this question, a team of East Carolina University researchers compare a series of digital images to blue crab population data. Erin Seiling introduces their research and some early results of the project, funded by the N.C. Blue Crab Research Program.

PEOPLE & PLACES:
Saving Places: Springer’s Point is a Natural Wonder

Once poised for development, Springer’s Point — with its diverse coastal community of plants, wildlife and things that go bump in the night — will remain undisturbed. The N.C. Coastal Land Trust’s new preserve invites visitors to follow interpretive trails to observe rare coastal ecosystems and learn about the area’s pirate lore.