SRESFS Students at Carolina Wildlands
On June 27th and 28th, we were delighted to host Dr. Joniqua Howard, Dr. Warner Ithier-Guzman, and their students from the Savannah River Environmental Science Field Station (SRESFS) for an exciting and educational weekend. Managed by South Carolina State University, SRESFS collaborates with 31 member institutions, primarily Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Their goal is to inspire and support underrepresented students in pursuing careers and advanced degrees in STEM fields, particularly environmental science/engineering, and natural resources management. This aligns perfectly with our mission at the Carolina Wildlands Foundation.
Students view a bird box study location.
We packed the weekend with activities! Thursday afternoon began with a visit to Fireworks Prairie, where different types of bird boxes used in our study were explained, followed by a tour of other areas of the property. On the tour students observed the contrast in biodiversity between the old hay field and the natural prairie and learned about the history of the Carolina Wildlands Foundation and the Southern 8ths Biological Field Station.
A little down time around the campfire.
After dinner, Thursday evening featured a campfire with s’mores while waiting for darkness to fall, which set the stage for an Insect Walk at Half Moon Prairie. Dr. Nathan Harness from Francis Marion University led the walk, using lights to showcase various fascinating and diverse insects on the property.
Black light attracting insects – and students!
Friday morning was dedicated to hands-on learning at Thompson Creek, led by the Department of Health & Environmental Control (DHEC). They provided a presentation on the importance of water quality, followed by practical tests conducted by the students, including measuring pH and dissolved oxygen levels and identifying macroinvertebrates.
Students donned waders to practice water sampling at Thompson Creek.
The visit from SRESFS was an enriching experience for all involved, and we are thrilled they could join us to learn about the unique aspects of our property and enjoy sights they might not every day!
Sights they might not every day.
