Around the Reef

By Portia Miller Communications Intern Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary

Are you looking for a summer adventure close to home? Eager to learn more about Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary and Georgia’s waterways? Look no further! You’ll find fun, education, and even prizes in Science for Georgia’s 2021 Scavenger Hunt to The Sea.

As you may know, water keeps our planet alive and is one of our most important natural resources. Unfortunately, it often isn’t given enough appreciation. Science for Georgia’s scavenger hunt explores the connected water systems that begin in our state’s 52 watersheds. No matter where you are in Georgia, you’re in a watershed! Imagine them almost like a bowl made of land. The rim of the “bowl” includes areas like hills, mountains, or higher ground that create the watershed’s boundaries. When rainwater falls or snow melts, gravity pulls the water downward. It eventually drains into bodies of water at the bottom of the watershed, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans, which benefit humans and animals alike. For example, lakes provide spaces for recreation, rivers help supply water for farming, and oceans provide homes and travel routes for marine animals like the fish found at Gray’s Reef. Now, you know how watersheds play a key role in the stars of the scavenger hunt: our waterways.

This scavenger hunt takes inspiration from a past Gray’s Reef communications intern, Taylor O’Neill. You might remember her virtual “Voyage Around Savannah” scavenger hunt from last October, where participants learned about Gray’s Reef by looking for clues in downtown Savannah. Science for Georgia’s hunt expands on this idea, adds almost a dozen new partners, and takes you through 14 of Georgia’s most important water systems, including Gray’s Reef. Other stops include iconic spots like Lake Herrick, the Okefenokee Swamp, and Skidaway Island State Park. You can complete all the stops virtually, and some have optional in-person activities.

After visiting the other exciting stops, you’re in for a treat at the end - Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary is stop 14 in the hunt. Gray’s Reef is part of the Altamaha River watershed, which is the largest in Georgia. The reef itself is 19 miles offshore, so many of Georgia’s other watersheds drain into it. Our stop focuses on telling the story of the reef and explains why it is so important to Georgia’s waterways.

So, without giving too much information away, what can you expect? The stop provides interesting facts and pictures about our variety of marine life like dolphins and sea turtles. Of course, you’ll learn about Sam Gray and how his name became attached to the reef. You’ll also learn what exactly a national marine sanctuary is and how they are vital to our planet’s health. If you’re interested in learning more about the science side of Gray’s Reef, the stop has information about research, experiments, and more.

You can participate from your home, boat, or even across the coast! All you need to complete the hunt is a Google account and a phone, tablet, or computer. Each stop works through a Google form. You’ll watch videos, read interesting facts, and learn about the resources at each stop. Then, you’ll be asked questions to quiz your knowledge. Don’t worry, they aren’t tests; they’re fun! Those who complete all 14 stops will be entered in a chance to win a goody bag. To participate in the hunt, visit Science for Georgia’s official website at scienceforgeorgia.org or go directly to the passport at scienceforgeorgia.org/ga-scavenger-hunt-21-passport/. The hunt runs until Oct. 31, 2021. There’s plenty of time left to learn and get a chance to win some awesome prizes. Get out and take pride in your water systems and local marine sanctuary!

For Information contact Michelle Riley: (912) 598-2417 michelle.riley@noaa.gov

Diver framed by ledge at Gray's Reef. Divers, anglers, and researchers are fascinated by what goes on in Gray’s Reef and Georgia’s other waterways. Photo by Greg McFall, NOAA