If you’re looking for something educational, outdoors and free to do this summer, the National Estuarine Research Reserve at North Inlet-Winyah Bay has the perfect program for you. Spend the day learning about what life is found in a pond with their Life in a Pond event series. 

Registration is required, but the program is free and takes place on various dates through Aug. 26. Microscopes will be provided and experts will be on stand-by to help you make sense of what you’re looking at. 

Life in a Pond is perfect for both adults and children, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about and engage with the environment. Be sure to pack a lunch to enjoy at their pond shelter after the program! 

The North Inlet-Winyah Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve was founded in 1992, thanks to a partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences, a part of the University of South Carolina. They are one of the 29 Estuarine Research Reserves found along the coastal U.S. and were founded with the goal to increase conservation efforts, research opportunities, education and stewardship in U.S. estuaries.