Hosted by Southeastern Louisiana University

30 participants max / $75, includes lunch

Participants will travel north to the Turtle Cove Environmental Research Station, a field research and educational facility of Southeastern Louisiana University. Dr. Robert Moreau, Manager of the station, will discuss the history and research/education work at the station, the local environment, and the ongoing impacts of coastal wetland loss of Louisiana. A pontoon boat will be waiting to take participants out into Pass Manchac and the western Lake Pontchartrain Basin for an intimate look at the surrounding Manchac wetlands – bring your binoculars to view the wildlife! The history of cypress logging in this area is very evident and will be discussed during the ride. Also discussed will be the impediments to reforesting the area and the challenge of addressing overall wetland loss in coastal Louisiana - losses that have been compounded by hurricanes over the years, including Katrina and Rita in 2005, Gustav and Ike in 2008, Hurricane Isaac in 2012 and most recently Ida in 2021.

The trip will include an authentic jambalaya lunch. Participants should check the forecast and dress for the weather. High winds, thunderstorms with lightning or other severe weather forecast 24 hours before would serve to cancel the trip.