Charleston, Ore. — This July, adults and kids can participate in a variety of nature-themed activities with South Slough Reserve. Available programming includes: Introduction to Crabbing—July 8, 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. – Learn about the amazing life cycle of crabs, their importance to the local economy and the various techniques for capturing this delectable Crustacean. Dress for the weather and meet at the Charleston Visitors Center. This event is free; however, Registration is required and is limited to 12 participants. Second Saturday Stewards—July 8, 10 a.m. to Noon – Bring friends or make new ones while you help keep the Reserve healthy. Every second Saturday of the month we will adventure to a new part of the Reserve that needs some TLC, weeding, planting, and more. Learn stewardship tips to use at home and have fun working alongside South Slough staff and volunteers. Meet in the South Slough Visitor Center parking lot. The event is free; however, registration is required. Kayak Skills Training—July 13, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. OR 1:00p.m. to 3:00 p.m. – New to kayaking or just want to brush up on your paddling strokes? Then this program is for you. Bring your own kayak and gear or rent ours for only $15. Please note this is NOT our 5 mile estuary paddle trip – we will be in the Charleston Marina for the entirety of the program. Meet at the Distant Water Fleet Parking Lot in Charleston, OR next to Qualman Oysters [Max – 8 participants for each session] (FREE w/out kayak rental). Registration is required. Purple Martin Program—July 15, 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. – Come join expert birder Joe Metzler to learn about the fascinating purple martin, its migration patterns and ecological importance. We will meet at the South Slough Visitor Center for an introductory presentation and then carpool to the North Spit to observe birds and hopefully band chicks. Bring your binoculars or borrow a pair of ours. This event is free; however, registration is required and limited to 25 participants. Kayaking the Estuary—July 22, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. – Experience the rich cultural and natural history of the South Slough on a trail that flows with the tide. During the five-mile paddle, experienced guides will show you areas of the Reserve rarely seen by visitors. Bring your own kayak or canoe, paddles, PFDs, water, and lunch. Feet and legs may get wet and muddy at launch points. Driver and shuttle will be provided. Meet at the Distant Water Fleet Parking Lot in Charleston, OR next to Qualman Oysters. ($10 / boat or $35 with kayak rental) Registration is required and limited to 16 boats. Birding at Bandon Marsh Wildlife Refuge—July 29, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – Join manager Alex Cook for a fun morning of exciting birding around the Refuge. Binoculars and spotting scope provided. Meet at the Refuge Main Office @ 83673 North Bank Lane, Bandon, OR. This event is free; however, registration is required.
