GEC Marsh Walk Filled with Surprises
 

Eileen Hutcheson returns with another surprise to share with those on the October 9th GEC Marsh Walk.

The marsh walk lead by Eileen Hutcheson for our October 9, 2007 meeting was filled with surprises of the natural kind.  Eileen's shear enthusiasm and love of coastal Georgia's estuarine system and all the wonders it holds was contagious.

   The marsh pickles were a surprise to many who had never considered all the edible plant in the coastal Georgia estuarine system.  Other plants were steeped in Native American lore and ritual uses in purification ceremonies.  The Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria) was known as a holy drink, high in caffeine and potent hallucinogenic properties, and a reputation for emptying the stomach contents of those consuming the tea made from the leaves. 

   The number and density of the critters in the marsh grasses was amazing.  In just a few seconds, Eileen gathered three species of marsh snails, and then it was off to explore the three species of fiddler crabs that were scurrying back to their burrows.

 
As the light faded, the ecology of salt pans and marsh hammocks was explored along with the changes that can occur in just a few inches change in elevation in estuarine environments.

   Members and the public are always welcome at GEC events and meetings.  We look forward to seeing you soon.