Winter 2009
Table of Contents
Species On The Brink:
Latest Challenges For River Herring Research
River herring are intimately tied to North Carolina’s coastal culture and history — but are now so scarce that a statewide moratorium is in place. Robin Wienke shares river herring research from two Fishery Resource Grant projects. One uses sonar in stock estimates and the other assesses herring’s zooplankton food source.
Stepping Up The Pace For Coastal Water Quality
Newly legislated stormwater management rules are designed to strengthen the protection of precious water resources in coastal counties. Pam Smith and Gloria Putnam show how communities are turning to Sea Grant, universities, state agencies and grassroots organizations to explore innovative stormwater management practices.
Otolith IDs: Tracing Elements Of Prime Habitat
Researchers are using fish earbones, called otoliths, to match juvenile striped bass with specific bodies of water. Combined with water sampling and land-use analysis, this information could help determine if urbanization along the Albemarle Sound is changing traditional nursery habitats.
PEOPLE & PLACES:
No Haunting, Just History
It’s not the Graveyard of the Atlantic, but backwaters along the Pungo River attract East Carolina University researchers who sift through small boat graveyards for insight into local maritime history. Join Jerry Allegood on a quick tour.
SEA SCIENCE:
Research Grows Future Scientists
Undergraduate students at Elon University bring coastal science to the Piedmont as they study salt marsh grasses. Cynthia Henderson shares the story of a minigrant that offers major experience for a new generation of researchers.
MARINER’S MENU:
Seafood Soups: A Fine Kettle of Fish & Shellfish
If you can’t get to the coast this winter, you can find some coastal comfort steaming from a bowl. Enjoy your North Carolina seafood in a soup or stew, chowder or bisque. In an excerpt from Mariner’s Menu: 30 Years of Fresh Seafood Ideas, Joyce Taylor offers tasty dishes as hearty meals.