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October 2021
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In the Tides CREW
Issue No. 74 October 2021
Publisher/Editor Amy Thurman amy@southerntidesmagazine.com
7 Editor's Note
Consulting Naturalist John "Crawfish" Crawford crawfish@uga.edu
9 Around the Reef 11 The Riverkeeper Report
The Bitter End Columnist Captain J. Gary "Gator" Hill theoriginalcaptaingator@gmail.com
13 Training Ecotour Guides 14 Right Whale Vocalizations
Around the Reef Columnist Michelle Riley michelle.riley@noaa.gov
16 Analysis of Marine Careers 19 Tips for Tidier Boat Repairs
The Riverkeeper Report Meaghan Gerard meaghan@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org Contributors
20 Community Updates 22 The Bitter End
Emily Kenworthy UGA Marine Extension & Georgia Sea Grant Gisele Galoustian Florida Atlantic University Hannah Mone UGA Marine Extension & Georgia Sea Grant
Copyright © 2015-2021
All content herein is copyright protected and may not be reproduced in whole or part without express written permission. Southern Tides is a free magazine, published monthly, and can be found at multiple locations from St. Marys, Ga., to Beaufort, S.C.
(912) 484-3611 info@southerntidesmagazine.com www.SouthernTidesMagazine.com Visit us on social media: www.issuu.com/SouthernTidesMagazine.com Facebook.com/southern-tides-magazine Instagram @southerntides_mag
About the Cover:
Southern Tides Magazine is printed by Walton Press, Monroe, Ga.
Right whale #3720 and calf were sighted 10 miles east of Wassaw Island, GA on January 19, 2021. #3720 is 14 years old and this is her first known calf. Read the article about right whale vocalizations starting on page 14. Photo provided by GADNR, NOAA permit #20556 (Image was turned for better fit on page.)
October 2021
Southern Tides Magazine
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We love hearing from you! Questions, comments, ideas, or whatever you'd like to share, please do! Send your thoughts to any of our email addresses listed above. 5
Editor’s Note Bring on Fall!
I'
ve always been a warm weather girl. From the first early days of spring when everything starts blooming and you can feel the first hint of warmth in the air, on through the depths of August (there was no such thing as “too hot”), I was in my element. Shorts and flip flops, fresh vegetables, and long days. Things I most enjoy doing seemed more fun in warm weather: kayaking, fishing, crabbing, throwing a cast net, planting vegetables and flowers, having friends over for cookouts, lazy beach afternoons, and anything else I could find to keep me outside. And then I turned 50. I still love all those things associated with warm weather (and cooling off inside when it’s too hot), but these days when the temperatures start dropping, rather than mourn the loss of summer, I start looking forward to fall. Turns out there are a lot of things I love doing in cooler weather, too! Some of the best fishing of the year can be had in October and November, still plenty of time for kayaking without being cooked in the process, front porch sitting is more comfortable, fires in the fire pit, and of course, oyster roasts with old friends and new. I used to dislike the shorter days, but the reality is that I’m less likely to work excessive overtime when it gets dark early, so that’s not really a bad thing either. To help you get a jumpstart on enjoy this fall, check out our list of ideas (right). I hope y’all enjoy this issue. We’ve gone down to our “winter weight” of 24 pages, but they’re packed full of articles for you. Enjoy! See you out there!
Fall Activities Here’s a list of potential things to enjoy as the weather cools: • Fishing (of course) and take along a beginner • Oyster harvesting • Viewing the fall foliage from your kayak • Sailing (the wind will be back soon!) • Boat improvement projects (yes, some of us enjoy that) • Plant fall/winter vegetables • Yard sales – go to them, or clean out and host your own • Have a costume party for Halloween • Add a coastal dish to your Thanksgiving tradition • Host an oyster roast • Make gifts for those on your Christmas list using shells, driftwood, etc. • Build a set of cornhole boards and host a tournament • Make some time for volunteering in your community • Learn to gig flounder • Set up a native species aquarium • Hike through a WMA or nature preserve and enjoy the fall colors • Build a fire pit in your yard and enjoy cool fall evenings around it with family and friends • Learn something new – a new skill, craft, language, etc. • Slow down and make time for things you enjoy and things that matter!
Amy Thurman
Editor in Chief amy@southerntidesmagazine.com
Cooler fall temps make for comfortable front porch-sitting time (left) or gathering around a fire pit of an evening with friends (top). Great fall weather is on the way - make time to get out and enjoy it! October 2021
Southern Tides Magazine
7
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Five Seats Open On Sanctuary Advisory Council
By Michelle Riley Communications & Public Outreach Coordinator Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary
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contact Scott Kathey, Advisory Council Coordinator at scott. kathey@noaa.gov or (912) 598-2381. The Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council actively recruits for new members when positions are available. Check our website frequently for updates on how you can help manage your underwater treasures at Gray's Reef.
his is a great way to make your voice heard and to represent your constituency, whether it’s the sportfishing community, divers, or folks in your neighborhood. Rarely does Gray’s Reef have this many seats open at once, including recreational fishing, recreational diving, and citizen-at-large. You do not need to boat out to Gray’s Reef to be considered for the position, nor must you live in Georgia or South Carolina. Gray’s Reef is a national marine sanctuary and belongs to all Americans. Applications are due by close of business on Wednesday, November 3. Here is the official announcement: Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary is seeking applicants to serve on its volunteer advisory council. The council provides NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries with advice and recommendations on the management of the sanctuary. The Gray’s Reef Sanctuary Advisory council is composed of 19 members who represent a variety of community interests, including fishing, diving, conservation, science, education, state agencies, federal agencies, and the public-at-large. The sanctuary is currently seeking applicants for the following seats and terms: • • • • •
Fishermen near the iconic yellow buoy at Gray's Reef. Photo provided by NOAA
Thank you for considering Gray’s Reef! We know your time and experience are valuable. For Information contact Michelle Riley: michelle.riley@noaa.gov
Sport Fishing, 3-year term Citizen-At-Large, 2-year term Sport Diving, 3-year term Conservation, 3-year term Research (non-living resources), 3-year term
Applicants do not necessarily need prior first-hand experience within the sanctuary, but they should be very familiar with their constituents' regional interests and how they relate to, or benefit, the management of Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary. Anyone with the desire and ability to effectively represent their respective community’s interest in the management of the sanctuary is encouraged to apply, regardless of the applicant's geographic location within the region. Applications are due by Nov 3, 2021. Applications received or postmarked after Nov. 3, 2021, will not be considered. For more information, including a copy of the application, please visit the Gray’s Reef Sanctuary Advisory Council recruitment webpage at graysreef.noaa.gov/management/sac/council_news.html or October 2021
Southern Tides Magazine
These seafloor sensors are an example of non-living resources, which is one of the open Advisory Council seats. Photo by Greg McFall, NOAA 9
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The Riverkeeper Report Annual Photo Contest
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he Ogeechee Riverkeeper is soliciting the best photographs from across the 5,500 square mile watershed. Judges will be looking for images that highlight what makes the Ogeechee and Canoochee Rivers, and the surrounding areas, remarkable. Photographers can enter in multiple categories: Landscape, portrait, wildlife, plant life, underwater, aerial, black and white, and funny wildlife. Submissions are due by November, 2021. Winners will be announced early December 2021. Complete rules and submission guidelines are available at ogeecheeriverkeeper.org/annualphotography-contest.
A gator on the Canoochee River by one of 2020's winners. Photo by William Harrell
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he Altamaha Riverkeeper protects, defends, and restores the Altamaha Watershed, from our large rivers, the Ocmulgee, Oconee, Ohoopee and Altamaha to the smallest tributaries and coastal marshlands. The Altamaha Riverkeeper aggressively monitors pollution and polluters throughout the watershed through a program of water sampling and analysis. We also monitor land-based activities that impact the health of the river including forestry and agriculture practices, wetlands destruction and development. To learn more visit: altamahariverkeeper.org/
T
he mission of the Satilla Riverkeeper is to protect, restore, and educate about the ecological values and unique beauty of the Satilla River. We work to ensure adequate quality and quantity of water in the Satilla River for all uses. We are the eyes and ears of the watershed and estuary. Through education, outreach, effective and informative communications, we strive to engage our membership and empower local communities to advocate for the Satilla River, tributaries, and watershed. www.satillariverkeeper.org/
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he St. Marys River is 130-miles long, winding through four counties in two states. That includes more than 60,000 residents who depend on the health of the river for tourism, recreation, commercial fishing, and safe drinking water. Wildlife and plant ecosystems rely on the continued cleanliness of the watershed, including 3,000 miles of streams and tributaries. To learn more visit: www.stmarysriverkeeper.org/
S
avannah Riverkeeper serves as the primary guardian of the Savannah River striving to respect, protect, and improve the entire river basin through education, advocacy, and action. We are a 501c(3) non-profit organization funded by individuals and foundations that share our commitment to creating a clean and healthy river that sustains life and is cherished by its people. www.savannahriverkeeper. org/ October 2021
Southern Tides Magazine
Compiled by Meaghan Gerard Communications & Administrative Director Ogeechee Riverkeeper meaghan@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org 11
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CARE: Training Ecotour Guides a destination for guided tours. Beachgoers enjoying the warming weather may unintentionally disturb shorebirds’ nesting, resting and feeding behavior. Increasing awareness among boaters and beachgoers on how and why to give shorebirds space is a key step in conserving these animals. “CARE began with the idea that if those leading ecotours know more about coastal ecology and wildlife, they can in turn teach those participating in their tours more about this critical balance and how best to preserve these resources,” Higgins said. Participants in the UGA certification program, who offer tours by kayak, paddleboard or boat, graduated just in time for the spring birding migration and summer tourist season, allowing them to share information learned from the program with tourists. Some of the certification participants are new to the profession. Others, like Cindy Dennard, owner of SouthEast Adventure Outfitters in St. Simons and Brunswick, is a veteran tour guide. “I’m always interested in continuing education and it’s always hard to stay current on what the latest info is that everybody is passing around. I feel like it’s really important to stay on top of that kind of stuff,” said Dennard, who participated in the course along with three of her employees. “It seems like this area is going to be continuing to grow and people are going to want to get outdoors,” Dennard said. “If the main folks that are taking people out have a similar standard of what behaviors should be and what’s communicated to visitors, that seems like it would help protect what people are trying to enjoy.” Funded by a grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division, the course has the potential to expand in the future to include other topics related to coastal stewardship. Higgins and her collaborators at Manomet plan to offer the UGA course again in February 2022. More information about the program as well as a map of certified guides is available online.
By Emily Kenworthy Public Relations Coordinator UGA Marine Extension & Georgia Sea Grant
O
sprey diving for fish, roseate spoonbills foraging in tidal creeks and American oystercatchers tending to their nests on barrier islands are just a few things visitors may see while exploring the Georgia coast by water. A new certification program developed by the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, in collaboration with Manomet Inc., is ensuring that ecotour guides educate visitors about nature and how to protect it. Led by UGA marine educators, the Coastal Awareness and Responsible Ecotourism, or CARE, program provides ecotour companies with tools to implement best practices when it comes to water-based tourism activities. “The program has long been a goal for shorebird biologists and others, including veteran ecotour guides, involved in wildlife conservation,” said Katie Higgins, environmental educator and volunteer coordinator at UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant. “No other program like this exists to strengthen the growing community of ecotour guides along the coast.” In spring 2021, 15 water-based Georgia coastal tour guides were certified after taking the 16-hour course that focused on recreational use and potential disturbance of coastal habitats, which has serious implications for wildlife, specifically shorebirds. Georgia’s beaches provide vital habitat for shorebird species throughout the year. Many of the more remote habitats used by shorebirds are also areas used by recreational boaters and serve as
Water-based tour guides in the Brunswick and St. Simon's areas participate in a birding field trip in the Altamaha River Delta as part of the certification program. Photo by Cindy Dennard
October 2021
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Whoop! Monitoring Right Whale Vocalizations
By Gisele Galoustian Senior Media Relations Director, Research and Health Division of Public Affairs, Florida Atlantic University
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he North Atlantic right whale is one of the most endangered whale species in the world with only about 368 remaining off the east coast of North America. A decreasing trend and low reproduction rates, combined with high levels of human activities – such as shipping and fisheries – underscore their precarious situation. Efficient tracking of their numbers, migration paths and habitat use is vital to lowering the number of preventable injuries and deaths and promoting their recovery. One of the frequently used methods to monitor whales is called passive acoustics technology. Right whales vocalize a variety of lowfrequency sounds such as moans, groans, pulses and even belches. One typical vocalization they use to communicate with each other is referred to as an “up-call,” which is a short chirp or “whoop” that lasts about two seconds. Up-calls are narrowband vocalizations with frequency swings in the range of 50 to 440 Hertz and appear to function as signals that bring whales together. Although current passive acoustics technology is a reliable, safe and effective way to monitor these endangered leviathans, it hasn’t always performed well. In the increasingly noisy ocean, current methods can mistake other sounds for whale calls. This high “false positive” rate hampers scientific research and hinders conservation efforts.
This image: Catalog #3720 and calf were sighted approximately 10nm east of Wassaw Island, Ga., on January 19, 2021. Catalog #3720 is 14 years old and this is her first documented calf. Photo provided by Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, NOAA permit #20556-01
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and the College of Engineering and Computer Science used artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning methods to develop a new and much more accurate method of detecting right whale up-calls. The technology utilizes Multimodal Deep Learning (MMDL) algorithms to evaluate acoustic recordings and make decisions on the presence of up-calls. The study’s findings, published in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America , showed that the MMDL detector outperformed conventional machine learning methods and demonstrated the superiority of the MMDL algorithm in terms of the up-call detection rate, non-up-call detection rate, and false alarm rate. The autonomy of the MMDL detector has immediate application for effectively monitoring and protecting right whales where accurate call detection of a low-density species is critical. “Our deep learning algorithm is a significant advancement on conventional machine learning methods. The near zero falsepositive, false-negative and false alarm rates indicate that this new MMDL detector could be a powerful tool in the detection and monitoring of the low density, endangered North Atlantic right Whale, especially in environments with high acoustic-masking,” said Laurent M. Chérubin, Ph.D., senior author and a research professor at FAU Harbor Branch who worked with Ali K. Ibrahim, first author and a post-doctoral research associate at FAU Harbor Branch. “Since the attributes of the MMDL system are not signal specific, we believe that it can be used as a classifier for all applications in which multiple classes are involved.” Researchers verified the effectiveness of the MMDL model for right whale up-call detection with Cornell University’s dataset. These recorded signals were converted to images and classified by the MMDL detector. The algorithm, composed of two types of neural networks, randomly selects its design parameters, requires little preprocessing and automates its architecture construction. Outputs from individual models are evaluated by a fusion classifier, which selects the most probable outcome. To highlight the urgency for effective detection and monitoring technologies in endangered species, new research is indicating that whales and other marine species are being impacted by climate change, including shifts in migration patterns and habitat use. Recently, North Atlantic right whales have been observed in locations not previously known as important right whale habitat. The new MMDL system offers a new tool to effectively monitor and assess the importance of these new behaviors in a changing ocean. Study co-authors are Hanqi Zhuang, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, FAU College of Engineering and Computer Science; Nurgun Erdol, Ph.D., professor, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, FAU College of Engineering and Computer Science; and Gregory O’Corry-Crowe, Ph.D., lead of the Wildlife Evolution and Behavior program (WEB) and a research professor at FAU Harbor Branch. This research was supported in part by the National Science Foundation (MRI Grant No. 1828181), which provided the scientists with the necessary computing equipment. Staff support was provided by the Protect Florida Whales Specialty License Plate provided through the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Foundation.
October 2021
Southern Tides Magazine
Above: Survey team spotted this 33-year-old male (#1803) about 10 miles offshore of the Georgia/Florida line in January. Photo provided by Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, NOAA research permit #18786 Below: Preliminary analysis of aerial and boat images indicate this mom may be right whale #3560, a 15-year old female born in 2005. If so, this is her first known calf. Photos provided by Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, NOAA permit #20556-01
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Deep Dive Into Marine Careers in coastal, ocean and marine sciences to recognize what level of education is required for a specific career. In addition to analyzing the highest level of education individuals obtained, the type of major completed within each degree was also assessed. Before looking into these percentages however, it should be noted that some profiles only indicated majors from their highest degree, so some data was not able to be included in this report. Of those who obtained a bachelor’s degree, 24% majored in biology (33% with the inclusion of marine biology), 11% in geology, and 11% in physics. The majority of individuals from our sample size continued their education after receiving a bachelor’s degree and continued to grow professionally and change in their expertise and interests, so there appeared to be little overlap between the type of bachelor’s degree obtained and their current job title. Of those who obtained a master’s degree, oceanography was the most common at 23%, followed by geology and marine sciences, both 7%. Again, there was little correlation between the major that an individual chose and their career from this sample size. Finally, of those who obtained a Ph.D., 41% majored in oceanography, 15% majored in marine science and 12% majored in geology. These were also the top three majors obtained by master’s students. Most of the individuals studied who work in academia obtained a doctoral degree and went on to serve as postdocs. By attaining a degree in any coastal, ocean or marine-related field, one gains broader skills to apply to one’s career which will be discussed below. Internship and Fellowship Experience: In addition to formal education, it is important for those interested in coastal, ocean and marine careers to gain real-world experiences prior to entering the workforce. There are many different types of internships and fellowships that provide workforce development opportunities and help young professionals build networks and establish connections that aid in their career search. From our sample, there were multiple internships and fellowships that individuals participated in, both at undergraduate and graduate levels. Below, I will discuss some of the leading internships and fellowships from the career profiles analyzed. Undergraduate internships and fellowships are funded by many sectors, from universities to government organizations, specifically NOAA. Many individuals from our sample participated in coastal, ocean or marine research experiences, either at the university where they pursued their undergraduate degree or through the NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates program which is available at universities across the country. Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) appeared most frequently in our sample size as locations where undergraduate internships took place. The NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship and Sea Grant internships were two undergraduate internship opportunities that several individuals pursued. From the 175 career profiles, most individuals who participated in an internship or fellowship program did so at the graduate level. The leading graduate fellowship from our sample size was Sea Grant’s John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship which provides those interested in the intersection between marine resources and national policy decisions with first-hand experience in Washington, D.C. The AAAS Science and Technology Fellowship is another common internship completed from those sampled, and NSF Postdoctoral Fellows were also recurrent among those who completed a postdoc. Professional Skills: Formal education, internships and
By Hannah Mone 2021 PSO Student Scholar UGA Marine Extension & Georgia Sea Grant
W
hen people hear of coastal, ocean, and marine career opportunities, many think of an aquarium employee or a marine biologist. However, there are many other careers beyond the scope of what initially comes to mind. Whether you are a scientific diver collecting data, a government employee writing policy to protect marine environments, or an engineer at an offshore oil company providing technical support, you are working in a coastal, ocean or marine-related career. This broad group of careers spans multiple sectors including academia, government, nonprofits, businesses and corporations. Despite the diversity of these career pathways, they each have a similar common goal: to protect, utilize, and better understand coastal, ocean, and marine environments, and biotic and abiotic resources. Over the course of my internship with UGA Marine Extension and Sea Grant, I have had the opportunity to participate in the National Science Foundation (NSF) INCLUDES planning grant titled COME IN (Coastal, Ocean, and Marine Enterprise Inclusion and Network-building). The goal of this project is to, “develop a national ecosystem that nurtures the growth, persistence, and success of students from historically underrepresented and marginalized groups.” As part of my internship, I compiled and analyzed nearly 175 career profiles to understand the multitude of career options in coastal, ocean and marine sciences. In addition to looking at careers, I also analyzed the professional development opportunities and background experiences that lead an individual to a position in one of these fields. These career profiles were obtained from the Oceanography magazine, marinecareers.net, NOAA Ocean Exploration career profiles, and profiles of Black marine scientists. Characteristics analyzed from each profile include education level, participation in internship and fellowship opportunities and other professional skills. I also looked at similarities and differences among careers of different individuals. Outlined below are some key findings from my data analysis. These findings are organized under the following categories: education level, internship and fellowship experience, and professional skills. Education Level: My analysis of employees in coastal, ocean and marine careers found that the highest education level ranged from an associate degree to a postdoc position. A majority of the career profiles in our sample size were of individuals with doctoral degrees (48%) and postdoctoral (25%) experiences (Figure 1). A doctorate is often required for academic positions such as a professor or researcher in coastal, ocean and marine sciences. Individuals with a bachelor’s or master’s degree often qualify for these positions, and many employers may be more interested in an individual’s professional experiences rather than education level. Many careers did not appear to require a Ph.D., with 56% of those who received a master’s as their highest level of education from our sample size working in government and 20% working for a corporation, such as an oil company. There were also tracts that required more specialized degrees including a D.V.M. or Juris Doctor, though there were few from this sample size that followed career paths requiring these degrees. Therefore, it is important for individuals interested 16
Southern Tides Magazine
October 2021
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fellowships are designed to equip individuals with skills that can be showcased when applying for a future job. Despite the broad 9/28/21 range of coastal, ocean and marine careers that one can go into, the skills which are important for these careers can be boiled down to a few key ones, namely, problem-solving and collaboration. This is followed by more technical skills including data analysis, communication skills, presentation skills and project management. This is one of the major reasons why it is not uncommon to find an individual in coastal, ocean or marine careers (as well as other career paths) who is working in a different job than they originally intended or studied for. There are some individuals from our sample size who started out in a coastal, ocean or marine-related field and transitioned away due to better career opportunities or evolving career interests; however, the fundamental skills they learned during their education or internships provided them with the necessary means to then apply these skills to other jobs. My analysis also found that there were other individuals who started out in a different field altogether or a broader field of biology or geology, and overtime narrowed down their interests to encompass marine careers. Therefore, by participating in a variety of opportunities, one is able to gain experience in what interests them and learn necessary skills to then be applied to a future job setting. In addition to conducting this analysis, another aspect of my work on the NSF INCLUDES planning project has been to develop a Qualtrics survey that is being administered to coordinators and managers of coastal, ocean and marine-focused internship and fellowship programs, including the Knauss Fellowship, and the NOAA Coastal Management and Digital Coast Fellowship. The purpose of this survey is to gather baseline information to
ealership and Marina ad-4.04x5.29-Sept21.indd 3
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understand who is applying for coastal, ocean and marine science professional development opportunities, and who gets selected as finalists. Information on the number of applicants received for a particular internship or fellowship program, the number of finalists, the educational background of the applicants and finalists, and demographic information is being collected through the survey. I am currently analyzing data from the Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship. We are particularly interested in understanding whether or not students from minority serving institutions apply and get selected for coastal, ocean and marine professional development opportunities, and explore barriers to their participation in such programs. During this internship, my awareness of the diversity in coastal, ocean and marine careers has expanded greatly. The analysis of a large sample size of individuals in these careers has also made me understand how non-linear career paths can be. The skills one gains throughout their different academic, job and life experiences is as important as one’s major. Each individual career path is unique.
11:32 AM
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Tips for Tidier Tasks
Some of the best ideas are cheap but will save you loads in the long run. Here are some you can bank on.
It’s in the bag A crisp, neat, straight paint line is a delight to the eye and is easy to achieve with the careful application of masking tape. Your efforts unfortunately can be marred by paint creeping under the edge of the tape ruining the effect. This is often caused by minute pieces of dirt sticking to the edge of the tape as it is laid down. Avoid this by storing tape in a resealable zipper storage bag when not in use. The bag will keep dirt off the tape and prevent half-used rolls from drying out between uses.
1
Zap the tape Nothing is more maddening than a roll of masking tape that won’t unroll, but only comes off in little bits. Before tossing it in the trash, an ornery roll of tape can often be brought back to life with a quick blitz in the microwave. Don’t overcook it: 5 to 10 seconds is often more than enough to revitalize the adhesive and return the roll to taping nirvana.
2
Keep it solvent Boat owners use lots of expensive caulks and compounds in cartridges. Half-used tubes that sit for more than a day or two often dry up, then get thrown in the trash. To avoid wastage, cover the end of the cut nozzle with a good dollop of petroleum jelly. It will keep the air out and prevent the contents of the tube from hardening. Next time you need the caulk, thoroughly wipe off the jelly and squeeze out a little bit of caulk to be sure the inside of the nozzle is clear of jelly.
3
Cheap hand cleaner Many jobs on the boat can leave your hands filthy. For a fast-andeffective hand cleaner that’s good at removing grease and grime, pour a little olive oil on your hands along with a sprinkling of sugar. Wipe with a paper towel, then wash your hands with soap and water.
4
Easy-off Unwanted paint splashes on fiberglass or metal surfaces and adhesive residue can be easily removed with Easy-Off oven cleaner. (Avoid using on unpainted surfaces.) For best results spray it on, allow it to sit for a few minutes then wipe off with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. It removes the wax from the boat, too, so be sure to reapply or you’ll be left with a dull spot. Test with a small amount in an inconspicuous spot to be sure it won’t damage the surface.
5
Glove trick Disposable gloves are great at keeping hands clean, but getting them on can be a pain if your mitts are sweaty. Lightly dusting your hands with talc will make latex and nitrile gloves slip on easily. To keep your hands clean when removing dirty gloves, gently grasp the cuff of one glove, pull it off until it’s inside out, then use the clean inside part to grasp the other cuff, pull it off, and then toss them both in the trash. Voilà, clean hands!
6
This article was reprinted with permission from BoatU.S. Magazine, flagship publication of the membership organization Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS). For more expert articles and videos to make your boating, sailing, or fishing better, visit Boatus.com
October 2021
Southern Tides Magazine
19
Ken’s Seafood Support Your Local Seafood Industry! Shrimp Fish Gator Tail Crawfish Blue Crabs Scallops And More!
FRESH! Tue - Thu 12-6 Fri - Sat 10-6 Sun 11-5
9270 Ford Ave.
Richmond Hill
(912) 756-8868
Call Ahead For Pick-up!
Community Updates ABYC Marine Trades Courses Available
The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) offers marine trades training with options for both online and in-person courses. All courses are available to both ABYC members and non-members, though member registration rates are lower. Online courses include ABYC instructors leading live online sessions with Q&A, recordings of each session available the next day and online proctored certification exams. In-person courses follow CDC guidelines and include ABYC instructors leading three in-person days of instruction and exams, with testing online for immediate results. Upcoming online courses: • Marine Systems Certification (three days/week for three weeks, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. each day), December 7 – 23 • Marine Electrical Certification (three days/week for three weeks, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. each day), December 7 – 23 • Diesel Engines Certification (three days/week for three weeks, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. each day), November 8 - 17 • ABYC Standards Certification (three days/week for one week, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. each day), November 2 – 4 Upcoming in-person courses: • Marine Electrical Certification (three days for one week, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. each day), Nov ember16 – 18, Annapolis, MD • ABYC Standards Certification (one day, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.), January 12, Charleston, SC For information about ABYC membership visit: abycinc.org/page/Join For information about courses and registration visit: abycinc.org/events/event_list. asp or contact Casey Bates at cbates@abycinc.org (410) 990-4460 ext. 100.
COVID Relief for Commercial Fishermen
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Participants in Georgia’s marine commercial and for-hire industry who experienced a greater than 35 percent loss in revenue during 2020 and/or 2021 due to COVID-19 may now apply for federal financial assistance. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act passed by Congress in March 2020 provided Georgia with nearly $2 million in funds to be distributed to marine fishery participants with economic loss from March through May 2020. The recent Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 has made an additional nearly $3 million in funds available to Georgia commercial fishermen, wholesale dealers, processors of saltwater species, bait shrimp dealers and harvesters, aquaculturists with a Georgia commercial fishing license, and for-hire guides with losses incurred during 2020 and/or 2021. Eligible applicants must have experienced a revenue loss of more than 35 percent compared to the same period for the five years between 2015 and 2019. To distribute the funds as quickly as possible, DNR is requesting applicants sign affidavits attesting to the revenue loss, as well as disclosure of other federal and/or state COVID-related financial assistance. This affidavit will be part of the application packet. DNR will provide applicants with worksheets to record monthly revenue from 2015 to 2019 and help calculate the loss in 2020 and/or 2021. For eligibility requirements and the application package, visit coastalgadnr.org/ CARES. Applications must be postmarked by November 6, 2021. A total of $2,927,195 is slated to be dispersed to successful applicants. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission will be the grantee and will distribute the funds based on Georgia’s spending plan. For more information, contact Julie Califf at Julie.califf@dnr.ga.gov (912) 262-3120 or Cindy Smith at cindy.smith@dnr.ga.gov (912) 262-3350 of DNR’s Coastal Resources Division. 20
Southern Tides Magazine
October 2021
Becoming an Outdoors-Woman
BLACKBIRD CHARTER CO. CAPTAIN RAVEN ABLARD 307•851•6314
Women participating in Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) programs can try a variety of activities, including archery. Photo provided by GADNR
Ladies, have you ever wanted to head out to go backpacking or fishing or shooting, but not sure where to start? The GADNR Wildlife Resources Division can help! The Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) Workshop, scheduled for Nov. 5-7 at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, provides a practical introduction to a wide variety of outdoor recreational skills and activities. “BOW workshops focus on learning outdoor skills in a safe and structured environment, giving women from all backgrounds the chance to learn outdoor skills in a positive, non-competitive atmosphere where they can feel confident and have fun,” said Melissa Paduani, BOW coordinator. “Available class activities will include shooting, fishing, camping, photography, wilderness survival and more!” BOW is an educational program offering hands-on workshops to women (18 or older) of all physical ability levels and aims to break down barriers to female participation in outdoor activities by providing a safe and supportive learning environment. Weekend workshops begin on Friday morning and end on Sunday. Between meals and special presentations and events, participants can choose from about 20 professionally-led classes, ranging from such topics as firearms, outdoor preparedness, fishing, preparing and cooking game, foraging, geocaching, nature photography, medicinal plants and hunting. Sessions range in intensity from leisurely to rugged (strenuous). “Although classes are designed with beginners and those with little to no experience in mind, more seasoned participants will benefit from the opportunity to hone their existing skills and try out new activities,” says Paduani. “All participants will receive enough instruction to pursue their outdoor interests further when the workshop is complete.” Registration for BOW is now open. Participants can choose to bring their own tents and gear, stay off-site or stay at the lodge at Charlie Elliott, (part of a popular complex including a wildlife management and public fishing area). Cost per person, which includes food and programming, ranges from $245-290 (dependent on lodging choice). For more information, including registration details, online registration and a complete listing of classes, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/BOW or call (770) 784-3059.
October 2021
Southern Tides Magazine
21
Sunset Cruise Fossil Hunting Dolphin Tour Bird Watching Golden Isles Tour Onshore Seining Inshore Fishing Day & Night Water Taxi Kayak Taxi Please Call or Text for Pricing All Trips Customizable DOG FRIENDLY
Safe Harbor
Rigging Services, LLC Proudly Serving Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida
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John S. Ramsey, Owner Authorized
Dealer
The Bitter End America's Dunkirk
By Captain J. Gary "Gator" Hill
M
ost mariners have heard that it’s unlucky to rename boats or ships, however, it happens quite frequently for one reason or another. One example is the La Concorde. If that doesn’t ring a bell, maybe you’ve heard her called by her later name Queen Anne’s Revenge. Or how about the USS Ion formerly known as La Amistad. Want to know more? You all have the internet and can easily find more details about these two vessels and others that’ve had their names changed. Today I want to tell you about one a little closer to home. In 2017, Captain Derek Brown, and his wife Amy Brown, owners of Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventures on Tybee Island, acquired a 52-foot Glenn Young tour boat which came to be known as The Monster. Prior to that she’d carried the name Chelsea Screamer. The name probably doesn’t ring any major bells, unless, by chance, you visited Manhattan in the late 90s or early 2000s. In particular 2001, even more precisely September 11th. The prior owner of Chelsea Screamer, Sean Kennedy, was still on land at 9:59 a.m. when the South Tower collapsed. Not knowing what had occurred, he made his way down to Chelsea Piers where the Screamer operated. At 10:28 Chelsea Screamer was sitting a mere 1,500 yards from where the towers collapsed and Kennedy knew something had to be done. He immediately began answering the call to aid those in distress, in the ages-old tradition of mariners. Nosing his 56-passenger boat into the slips on the north side of the New York Waterways World Financial Center terminal he and his mate started to usher people aboard before transporting them to safety. Later, this would be referred to as Americas Dunkirk, and well chronicled in the book, Saved at The Seawall; Stories from The September 11 Boat Lift. For many days afterward, Kennedy offered up the use of this proud vessel to ferry search crews and support personnel, as well as food and other items to aid in this great humanitarian project. Fast forward nine years and Chelsea Screamer finds herself right dead center of another national emergency. This time of an environmental nature: the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill, due to a faulty blowout preventer. At approximately 1:56 p.m. CDT, on April 20, 2010, a fire on the rig started a series of cascading failures that resulted in the platform sinking on April 22. The blowout preventer should have closed the wellhead but failed to do so, which resulted in the largest oil spill and natural disaster in American history. Sean Kennedy, born and raised in Biloxi, Miss., had transformed his one-time tour boat into a crew boat and once again carried support crews aiding in the cleanup of the spill. Afterwards, Chelsea Screamer was hauled out and sat idle on the hard, until Derek and Amy purchased and moved her to Tybee Island.
Today, Chelsea Screamer, now The Monster is back to her former mission of carrying tourists on dolphin and sightseeing tours on Tybee Bay and the Savannah River. If you look close enough there are still a few old signs of her original name, some lettering outlines on her bow, and along the side of her hull, as well as some older gear that is still serviceable. An upcoming engine swap will replace the aging Detroit 8V92 diesels with the more environmentally friendly 6CTA Cummins, which will power her as she continues to be the premier tour boat on Tybee Island. Be sure to book her for the 2022 season. Till our wakes cross again, peace and love and shrimp and grits. I’ll see you on the water!
Email: TheOriginalCaptainGator@gmail.com 22
Southern Tides Magazine
October 2021
6349 Abercorn Street Savannah, GA
912.352.1222 • MyCBHomes.com FEATURED
Lyn McCuen 912.224.0927
431 Montgomery St
Downtown Historic District Condo. Walk to everything. Restaurants, shopping, venues. The is the unit for the discerning buyer. SCAD parent? Perfect. Executives wanting to enjoy the downtown life? Perfect. Newer building with nice upgrades. Granite counters, SS appliances and hardwood floors. Has an off street dedicated parking space. BEDS: 2 BATHS: 2.5 SQFT: 1,2000 PRICE: $415,000
11 Marcy Ct
lyn@coldwellbanker.com www.lynmccuen.com Find me on:
@lynmccuen
What a great place and area to call home! This is located on a cul de sac street with easy access to shopping and other amenities. This is a very special three bedroom two bath home with no carpet, screened porch, private backyard, and tons of fruit trees (loads of fruit). The front porch welcomes you in to a great room with a wood burning fireplace, kitchen with SS appliances, granite counters and a breakfast area and bar. Master bedroom is ensuite with a large walkin closet and separate vanity area.
BEDS: 3 BATHS: 2 SQFT: 1,600 PRICE: $230,000 1432 N Camden Cir
This home is a jewel. Custom built on one of the most beautiful lots in Mayfair. Gorgeous oak trees
grace the front and rear yards. Meticulously maintained. Wood floors in most of the home. Separate laundry room. Single story home with formal LR, DR and spacious family room open to the kitchen. The kitchen has been updated with stainless appliances and new counters and a great backsplash. There are three large bedrooms and the master is ensuite. Detached carport and workshop with its own bath are located in the rear. Beautiful brick patio directly off the family room for lots of outdoor entertaining.
BEDS: 3 BATHS: 2.5 SQFT: 2,166 PRICE: $ 371,000 4629 Sussex Place
Coming Soon!
BEDS: 3 BATHS: 2 SQFT: 1,869
3370 Fort McAllister
Just Sold!
BEDS: 4 BATHS: 2.5 SQFT: 3,456 PRICE: $830,000 103 12th Street
Just Sold!
BEDS: 3 BATHS: 3 SQFT: 2,244 PRICE: $735,000
Just Sold!
2521 Norwood Ave
BEDS: 3 BATHS: 2 SQFT: 1,890 PRICE: $425,000
© 2021 Coldwell Banker Access Realty. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Access Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.
Living Shorelines
We Prepare and Install Living Shorelines Living shorelines provide a natural and stable alternative to sea walls. Zulu is pleased to offer installation where stabilization and shoreline restoration is needed. • • • • • •
Assembled with bags of recycled oyster shells Stabilizes eroding shorelines or failing bulkheads Plantings of native grasses enhance stabilization Encourages growth of oysters, which provides water filtration Provides habitat for multiple fish and crustacean species Increases resistance to flooding
To get a copy of our Guide to Living Shorelines, email jamie.king@zuludiscovery.com!
zuludiscovery.com
(912) 544-5520
