NJ Audubon

August 19-21, 2007

Three NJ Audubon Staff and nine teachers from local schools arrived at Sedge on a rainy afternoon. Little did we know that this weather pattern was to be the norm for the three days that they stayed on the island. We began with a paddle in the marsh, in the rain. There was no wind and since it was quite warm no one was uncomfortable. In fact many people remarked that the rain enhanced the experience. The colors seemed more vibrant. The green Spartina grass against the gray clouds was spectacular. The white feathers of the egrets stood out. Osprey wheeled overhead. Pelicans flew over in pairs and small groups.

Audubon leaders frustrated the group by forcing them to look closely at everything they saw. Rather than answering questions about what this or that was, the leaders would encourage the teachers to sharpen their scientific observation skills by making closer observations.

As the NorEaster built into a three day storm the wind rose making kayaking impossible for the remainder of their time at Sedge. Undaunted the group fished, clammed, crabbed and even hiked- all in the rain and wind. On the last day the boat trip back to Island Beach was the heaviest rain and the strongest wind. But the group took it in stride and before changing out of their wet clothes went on a hike to the beach to look at the storm surf.