Tide Talk

Tracking sharks in the northern and mid-Atlantic.Join us to hear about the shark-tracking project with Dr. Megan Winton Senior Scientist with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (https://www.atlanticwhiteshark.org/).  Dr. Winton was in the area last spring as part of her research employing quantitative fisheries biology, using statistical analyses to better understand the population dynamics of sharks off coast of New England and how that might tie into migrations south to the Lowcountry.

In this episode, we learn about the cutting edge of sustainable water treatment and use in the Lowcountry and land conservation with Dean Moss, the retired head of the Beaufort Jasper Water and Sewer Authority (https://www.bjwsa.org/) and former board member of the Open Land Trust (https://openlandtrust.org/).  Join us as we get a fascinating look at major events shaping the conservation of the Lowcountry through the eyes of an active member that helped lead the preservation efforts that continue into the future.

Join us on San Salvador Island for a behind-the-scenes look at the Gerace Research Centre. Host Dr. Joe Staton talks with director Dr. Troy Dexter, dining hall manager Raquel Nairn, student Lydia Gattozzi, and art professor Joanna Angell about reef dives, island life, and blending science with creativity.

Welcome back to Tide Talk, the podcast where we explore the exciting world of marine biology, coastal ecology, and student-driven research at the University of South Carolina Beaufort. In this episode, host Dr. Joe Staton dives into the collaborative spirit and scientific discovery shaping the Port Royal Sound region.We’re joined by Chris Kehrer, Science Program Manager at the Port Royal Sound Foundation, and Sarah Bourne, a USCB marine biology junior, who shares her eye-opening internship experience leading summer camps and environmental education at the Maritime Center. From kayaking with kids to hands-on encounters with snakes and muddy marshes, Sarah reflects on how this opportunity expanded her science communication skills and deepened her connection to the Lowcountry ecosystem.Later, Dr. Ty Petty, associate professor of biology and head of USCB’s Water Quality Lab, joins the conversation. He discusses his transition from Delaware estuaries to the high-salinity Port Royal Sound and how his lab’s long-term water monitoring—bolstered by student researchers and citizen science—is helping fill critical knowledge gaps in the region’s environmental health.🌿 Topics Include:Internships and career inspiration through experiential learningThe role of environmental education in community outreachHarmful algal blooms and water quality researchHow citizen scientists are expanding our understanding of local waterways🌊 Whether you're a student, researcher, or nature enthusiast, this episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of education, science, and stewardship in the Lowcountry.🔗 Learn more about USCB’s programs and how to get involved at USCB.edu.

In this episode of Tide Talk, we go beyond the shores of the Lowcountry to the tropical ecosystems of San Salvador, Bahamas. Joined by marine biologist Dr. Kim Ritchie, we explore the University of South Carolina Beaufort’s immersive study abroad course, Natural History of the Bahamas, hosted at the Gerace Research Center.Dr. Ritchie shares how her undergraduate experiences at this very field station inspired the course’s creation, and how students get up close with coral reefs, iguanas, stromatolites, and seagrass ecosystems—no scuba certification required! Learn how this trip provides invaluable field experience that goes far beyond the classroom.We also hear firsthand from USC Beaufort student Piper Davis, who shares the magic of snorkeling among reef sharks, exploring iguana islands, and conducting interviews with the center’s co-founder, Kathy Gerace. Piper reflects on how this journey reignited her passion for biology and deepened her connection to the field.Whether you're a prospective student, a marine life enthusiast, or just dreaming of turquoise waters, this episode delivers a wave of inspiration.📍 Featured Guests:Dr. Kim Ritchie – Associate Professor, Natural Sciences, USC BeaufortPiper Davis – Coastal Ecology major, USC BeaufortKathy Gerace – Co-founder of the Gerace Research Center

In this episode, we dive into the wonders of Pritchards Island, a hidden gem teeming with research opportunities. Listeners will discover the groundbreaking studies taking place there and gain insight from a line up of guest who have worked hands-on with the island’s unique ecosystem. Get ready for an exciting episode about this incredible coastal treasure!