Proceeds benefit Port Royal Sound Foundation’s research programs
By Courtney McDermott
Special to The Island News
Turn off the game, put down your brackets and experience a different kind of spring celebration at the inaugural “Marsh Madness,” set for Saturday, March 9, from 4 to 7 p.m., in the Weezie Educational Pavilion at the Maritime Center and benefiting the Port Royal Sound Foundation’s (PRSF) expanding research programs.
Featuring oysters and barbeque from Sea Eagle Market, locally brewed beer from Shellring Ale Works, and live Bluegrass music with the Sea Island Ramblers, the event will serve as the kick-off to the spring rebirth of Lowcountry marsh grasses and will support important research programs that help us understand this critical ecosystem.
“Our saltmarshes are the foundation of the entire Port Royal Sound ecosystem, providing food and habitats for almost every living thing in our waters,” PRSF Executive Director Jody Hayward said. “Marsh Madness will be a fun, new tradition for the community that celebrates our saltmarsh with great food and bluegrass.”
Proceeds from Marsh Madness will support an important part of Port Royal Sound Foundation’s mission: advancing research to ensure local marshes and the Port Royal Sound remain healthy for decades to come. Funds will facilitate the expansion of the PRSF’s research programs, including the Citizen Science Program, which currently boasts more than 100 local volunteers who routinely sample water at dozens of locations around the watershed to help researchers gain a better understanding of our Port Royal Sound.
Marsh Madness tickets are $45 per person and include oysters, barbeque, and non-alcoholic beverages. A cash bar will also be available at the event. Tickets can be purchased online at www.PortRoyalSoundFoundation.org. This event is open to the public, age 21 and older.
The Weezie Educational Pavilion is located on the campus of the PRSF Maritime Center at 310 Okatie Highway, Okatie.
