The ACE Basin National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) serves as a community hub for coastal science and education.
Our educators provide place-based marine science programs that focus on the conservation of the state’s coastal natural resources, as well as relevant science standards. We offer land- and boat-based student programs led by our education staff across the coast.
Aboard a 45’ catamaran, the E/V Discovery, our educators lead science investigations using field sampling techniques and equipment that echo current research methods. Students assist in data collection and sample various marine organisms during their visit. With an emphasis on estuarine ecology, groups connect local conservation issues to broad science concepts while developing critical science investigation skills. Together, we are working to create coastal stewards for the future of South Carolina’s fisheries and coasts.
Homeschool Programs
We host programs for homeschool throughout the spring and fall. Sign up for their mailing list to stay up to date with upcoming programs and get first access to registration.
Field Trips
Educational trips go to the following locations:
- Fort Johnson
217 Ft. Johnson Rd.
Charleston, SC - McKenzie Field Station
15717 Bennett’s Point Rd.
Green Pond, SC - Botany Bay Plantation
Botany Bay Rd.
Edisto Island, SC - Edisto Environmental Learning Center
Oyster Row Ln.
Edisto Island, SC
Reservations are first come, first served. There is no fee for school groups.
Educational Programs for the 2022-2023 school year will begin booking in August 2022.
Educational Program Descriptions:
- How to Read a Fish
(Grades K-5) - Salt Marsh Field Study
(Grades K-12) - Sea Turtle Ecology
(Grades K-12) - Horseshoe Crabs and Shorebirds
(Grades K-12) - Discovery Vessel Program
(35 passenger capacity, Must be 10 years old+) - Fisheries Management
(Grades 5-12) - Fish Dissection
(Grades 5-12) - Squid Dissection
(Grades 5-12) - All About Sharks
(Grades 5-12) - Oyster Reef Community
(Grades 5-12) - Planet Plankton
(Grades 5-12) - Marine Debris
(Grades 5-12) - Causes of Sea Level Rise
(Grades 5-12) - Coastal Flooding and Impacts of Sea Level Rise
(Grades 5-12) - Botany Bay Experience
(Grades 5-12)
The ACE Basin Reserve is managed in a joint effort by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association.