Group Interpretive Activities (Preregistered)
Organized community groups are
encouraged to contact the education coordinator to pre-arrange group tours of
the reserve. No walk up tours can be scheduled due
to the equipment requirements of the adventures. These group tours are designed to bring
the participants directly in contact with many of Mississippi's important
estuarine habitats and their diverse plant and animal species. Participants will leave these tours
with a greater appreciation for the resources found within the reserve and
other coastal habitats. Due to a
limited number of staff members, the number of these trips scheduled each month
is limited. Trips will be
scheduled on a first come- first served basis. Participants should keep in mind that these trips are
dependent on good weather. A trip
may be terminated at any time due to poor weather conditions.
Aquatic Field Experiences
Paddling Adventures
This
aquatic adventure begins on Beautiful Bayou Heron at the boat launch. Participants will canoe down the bayou
at a leisurely pace until they reach an ancient American
Indian Midden that is located approximately one-half mile away. Once on the midden, the group will
learn how the middens were formed and
then explore the habitats on and around the midden (salt marshes, salt pannes
and the forested midden). This
trip requires moderate effort, especially if the wind kicks up. All children must be accompanied by a
responsible adult. No children under the age of six. A limited number of canoes
are available, but participants may bring their own canoes or kayaks if they
prefer. Group size is limited 18. Participants must bring their own snacks and
water.
Pontoon Tours
Organized groups may arrange for a
guided pontoon boat tour through the nearshore waters of the reserve. Depending on the preferences of the
group, the tour can be catered to early morning birdwatching, exploring the
bayous and middens of the reserve or just watching the sun go down. Group size
is limited to 15. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Terrestrial Field Experiences
For
these field experiences, a 15 passenger van is used to transport groups through
the inland portions of the reserve. A variety of themes are available for these
trips including a birding trip along the Oak Grove
Birding Trail, a carnivorous plant walk through a pine savanna or a
driving tour through the different sections of the reserve which includes short
stops at the birding trail to discuss invasive species and a stop down at the
Bayou Heron Fishing Pier.