Spring 2007

Table of Contents

Waterfront Access:
Meetings Highlight Spectrum of Needs

Discussions of North Carolina’s changing waterfront drew more than 275 people to public comment sessions convened by the N.C. Waterfront Access Study Committee. Katie Mosher shares concerns and suggestions offered to the panel.

Drifting Along:
Sea Grant Scientists Study Oyster Larvae

Ann Green joins a research voyage into the Pamlico Sound. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary members assist Sea Grant scientists as they collect data — and “drifters” — to determine how oyster larvae move about.

Finding Flounder:
Testing Low-Profile Gill Nets

The Pamlico Sound deep-water flounder fishery was permanently closed in 2002 after an increase in sea turtle interactions, causing many fishers to lose a source of income. E-Ching Lee talks to FRG researchers who are testing low-profile gill nets that might allow a reopening of the sound.

SEA SCIENCE:
Ancient Mariners: Sea Turtles in North Carolina

Sea turtles are ancient reptiles with incredible navigational abilities. E-Ching Lee learns about these protected species that travel thousands of miles to nest on North Carolina’s beaches.

NATURALISTS NOTEBOOK:
Bogue’s New Butterfly

Bogue Banks is home to a rare, and possibly new, species of butterfly. Kathleen Angione talks with scientists studying this remarkable insect, and learns how it provides clues to important ecological questions.

PEOPLE & PLACES:
Cape Fear Museum Showcases ‘Arrivals’ Exhibit

A Wilmington museum offers intriguing audio accounts of early days along the state’s southern coastal region. Museum memorabilia include Civil War artifacts, passenger train dinnerware and even a tribute to Michael Jordan.