WORTH PROTECTING

Voluntourism and the preservation of a valuable coastline: The Outer Banks.

words and photos JP GRICE

As one of our most beloved vacation destinations, The Outer Banks is a near perfect coastline. It has rolling sand dunes, diverse wildlife, a rich history, uncrowded beaches, and abundant activities. But with all that beauty and soul comes a lot of responsibility.

A TRIP TO THE BEAUTIFUL, SPECIAL & WILD

As we crossed the bridge over the Alligator River, we were immediately reminded how beautiful, special, and wild the Outer Banks are. We saw gorgeous views of expansive lapping water, bald cypress trees, and seagulls coasting on currents of warm air. Then, only a couple miles down the road — on the last bit of Carolina mainland just east of Roanoke Island — we had a rare encounter. A massive black bear snacking on berries welcomed us to the barrier islands.

The next day, we spent sunset just south of Oregon Inlet at the historic Life Saving Station. This building is nestled at the base of towering dunes on Pea Island, a delicate and constantly changing piece of land at the mercy of the encroaching ocean.

At Bodie Island, we saw my favorite lighthouse. It's been there since the 19th century. You get multiple vantage points with its neighboring boardwalk, and it has a double keeper's quarters, which is really unique.

To our surprise, not only did we get to see the iconic landmark, but we also found one of my favorite endangered species: the Timber Rattler. A sighting like this is something to celebrate. They're pretty rare to see, but serve as a reminder that you're in a special place deep in the national seashore where wildlife thrives at the edge of the lighthouse clearing. These animals are simply looking to either bathe in the sun or relax in the shade. Let them alone and they'll keep to themselves. There's also a wonderful variety of birds to see and the common sightings of white tail deer.

On our third day we went aquarium hopping. We visited both Jennette's Pier and the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island, where I literally spent an hour in a trance watching the jellyfish swim. The education kids and adults receive here is extremely valuable in further protecting both the ocean and the wildlife that live in it. After all, awareness and connection are so important in spreading the gospel of conservation.

And then, on our last day we made it to the southernmost tip of Hatteras, where you can experience a stunning landscape sans the crowds. This place is the end of the world here in the Old North State, and because of stengthening storms and exposure, the shoreline is dynamic and in constant flux. But it is simply the best — raw yet peaceful, with the bluest water — and truly pristine.

This trip reminded us that the Outer Banks are nothing less than a blessing to all who visit. The area is an amalgamation of wind-swept beaches, historic landmarks, wild creatures (land and sea), even pirate lore...not to mention the sunsets are mind boggling. But it's also fragile, deserves respect, and needs constant work to maintain. Luckily, there are so many people, organizations, and initiatives that share in the mission of protecting this wonderful place. So, if you are planning a trip like ours to the Outer Banks, along with seeing all the sights and enjoying warm days on the sand, we also hope and encourage you to love it like a local. Here's some of the ways you can help and do just that!

JOIN OUTER BANKS SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES & PLAY YOUR PART

If you’re one of those visitors that wants to give back and ponders how they can lend a hand in the Outer Banks, these are several options that have a very postive impact.

Keeping The Beaches Clean

On Cape Hatteras National Seashore, miles of golden sand meet sapphire waters. These beaches create endless opportunities for a wide array of activities. As the first public land designated as a national seashore, the beaches of Cape Hatteras are celebrated as some of the most pristine and natural in the country. Even as such, they are no more immune than anywhere else from the traces people leave behind, with the usual kinds of trash.

Our primary goal when we travel is to leave it better than we found it. That means not only should you take your trash with you, but, if you happen to come across any other trash, try to grab it and dispose in appropriate locations as well.

The OBX 5 Minute Beach Cleanup and the Surfrider Foundation through their Adopt-A-Beach program are two of the most prominent organizations making efforts for group beach cleanups and inviting volunteers from far and near to join.

Protecting The Sea Turtles

The Leatherback Turtle, Green Turtle, and Hawksbill Turtle are all critically endangered species that make the Outer Banks their home. These sea turtles are especially susceptible to the negative effects of plastic and debris left on the beach. Most consider them food and swallow them, leading to intestinal blockage and death. Similarly, discarded fishing lines can become a life-threatening trap for sea turtles. Supporting or volunteering with the Network for Endangered Sea Turtles (N.E.S.T.) is one great way to help.

Preservation At The Pier

Preservation efforts aren’t simply being made on the beaches of the OBX but also in its fishing and beachfront activities. Jennette's Pier is probably the most fitting facility to look up to, known for its world-class fishing and youth adventure camps. The Pier has made significant progress to become environmentally friendly by adopting wind-powered turbines and passive solar systems.

NON-PROFITS IN THE OUTER BANKS

There are over 100 non-profit organizations on the Outer Banks helping protect the ocean, beaches, and wildlife. Here are a handful that are doing amazing work and need volunteers or donations.

• Better Beaches OBX takes active steps to create a sustainable future for the OBX shoreline.

• Outer Banks Beekeepers' Guild encourages sustainable methods among beekeepers of the Outer Banks.

• Outer Banks Conservationists act to protect natural, cultural, and historical resources through public education and outreach.

• The North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA) promotes responsible beach driving practices and engages in conservation initiatives to safeguard sea turtles and shorebirds.

• The Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research studies dolphin populations, monitors their well-being, and raises public awareness about these remarkable marine creatures.

VOLUNTEER AT A NON-PROFIT EVENT THIS YEAR

Events are a great way to donate your time, spread the message, and meet likeminded people with similar conservation values. These OBX events are happening in the next several month and will assuredly raise both money and awareness for their causes.

Dune Day Celebration at Jockey's Ridge | Aug 15

Jockey’s Ridge is the largest sand dune system on the east coast, making it naturally, historically and culturally significant. Head to the Jockey's Ridge, where you can donate to support, enhance and promote the Jockey's Ridge State Park and its various programs.

Snakes, and Spiders, and Bugs....OH MY! | Til Sept 1

Discover the fascinating world of misunderstood creatures in the OBX environment at Frisco Native American Museum and Natural History Center. Uncover the immense benefits the smallest neighbors bring to the Outer Banks ecosystem.

Beach Cleanup | Sep 16

Join the North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA) for the coordinated volunteer beach cleanup being held on September 16th. Volunteers can join in to clear away debris and garbage around the Outer Banks coastline.

Become A Responsible Traveler At Obx

If you haven't been to the Outer Banks yet, when you do visit, you'll immediately recognize both its natural beauty and the need for its preservation. Choose to help protect it, choose to love it like a local! We hope y'all will play an active role in its preservation through volunteering, engaging in community events, or by donating to non-profits that do the good work! It's worth it.

info outerbanks.org / @theouterbanksnc