Field Excursions for the Public - New Program

Kids can't have all the fun! The Dauphin Island Sea Lab is now offering a program of field excursions for the public, trips that were once reserved for school groups during the academic year. These "Sea Lab Summer Excursions" will explore the beaches and maritime forest of Dauphin Island and the muddy, fascinating salt marsh.

"We are so pleased to be able to offers these excursions to the public during the summer," said Sea Lab Interim Director John Dindo. "So many times we hear parents say 'We wish we could to that!' when their children report back on a field trip down to the Sea Lab. Now the whole family can explore these wonderful environments. What a fun and educational trip to do during the summer!"

Cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children, payment due the morning of the excursion. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult; parents are responsible for children. Spaces are limited; reservations required. Field excursions include admission to the Estuarium.

For reservations or more information, call Mendel Graeber at 251-861-2127 or email mgraeber@disl.org.

Marine treasures are found in the most unusual places on the beach.

Salt Marsh Field Excursion
Dates: June 18, July 12, and July 17
Time: 9:45 am to 12:00 pm
Minimum age: 8 years old

Participants will travel by bus from the Estuarium to the Dauphin Island Salt Marsh to explore the salt marsh ecosystem, including the flora and fauna. We'll use seine nets, yabby pumps and sieve boxes to discover the wonders of this highly productive habitat. Call for more details on what to wear and bring; showers and changing facilities will be available after the marsh trip. You will get muddy...and excited about the world around us!

Participants must wear closed-toe, rubber soled shoes, such as old tennis shoes. No sandals, Crocs or rubber boots. Recommended items: sunscreen; hat; camera; binoculars; towel; extra dry clothes; plastic bag for muddy items.

Beach, Dune and Forest Excursion
Dates: June 25, July 26, and July 29
Time: 9:45 am to 12:00 pm

It's not just sand and water - the beach is a thriving habitat with a dynamic dune system and wondrous flora and fauna. We'll walk through the Audubon Bird Sanctuary's maritime forest and examine the dunes and beaches of Dauphin Island. Call for more details on what to bring and expect.

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes for forest and beach. Recommended items: sunscreen; hat; bug spray; binoculars; towel.