STREAMS, LAKES, AND BEACHES: INTERDISCIPLINARY TEACHING AND RESEARCH MODULES FOR THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL PLAIN

Integrated geologic, biologic, and environmental studies on Coastal Plain processes and issues have been developed and taught in teacher workshops (Middle and High School) and in our Introductory and Environmental Geology curriculum. Educational models and research have shown that learning is most successful with an interdisciplinary approach (including social and economic issues); this is the approach used in these and our other Geoscience Education modules. The three modules described here can be stand alone modules or serve as an integrated curriculum dealing with the interaction of the hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere.

Stream processes and flooding. Stream data are analyzed to investigate flood recurrence intervals and extents along the Northeast Cape Fear and Tar Rivers and the environmental/human impacts using historic stream data and maps. In addition, water quality is assessed using State and UNC-W monitoring data where numerous concentrated animal farm operations are present and in our tidal creeks where stormwater runoff is the major issue.

Lakes. Numerous water-filled Carolina Bays are present in southeastern N.C. In addition to the “mysterious” origin of the lakes, investigations on soil (local soil type and moisture conditions) and water (acidic vs. buffered lake waters (limestone presence)) are used to illustrate the controls that these properties have on the variety of ecosystems that are present.

Beach. Barrier islands and inlets are dynamic (erosion, inlet migration, sand movement). Sequential maps and aerial photographs, renourishment history, beach to marsh profiles, and physical properties of the beach are analyzed to illustrate change and to initiate discussions on policy issues such as coastal development, storm mitigation, and beach preservation.