Governor’s School Group 2: Wild-writers

This group of bright and enthusiastic teenagers began their 3 day stay out at Sedge with a bit of snorkeling and clamming along the southern edge of the island. As the questionable weather passed, we were able to head out on our 1 mile long mosquito-ditch loop around the sedges. Along that loop, they learned about the various animal and grass species in Barnegat Bay, such as the fiddler crab, peregrine falcon, and spartina alterniflora. Here they also learned about the natural hydrology of a salt marsh, and various manmade alterations to the area, including the introduction of various invasive species such as the green crab and phragmites grass.

The next day our group was joined by Dr. Jim Merritt and his daughter on the way out to the dike along the Barnegat Inlet. Along the walk from the bay to the beach, the Wild writers learned about the various plant species that dominate the dune landscape along the barrier island, and then finally enjoying a few fun hours at the beach. The group’s activities were concluded with a series of team building activities led by Dr. Merritt, and then quiet reflection on the marsh environment and some stargazing.