Coastal Ecology of North Carolina: From the River to the Sea

This class will focus on the physical and environmental processes that have shaped the North Carolina coastline. Topics will include the geological history of the coastal plain, our unique coastal habitats, and natural plant communities. We'll also explore some of the environmental challenges faced by coastal communities due to climate change and rapid development.

Presenter: Amy Mead

Area Agent, Natural Resources and Environmental Education  - N.C. Cooperative Extension

Amy Mead is the Area Natural Resources Agent for Pender, Brunswick, and New Hanover Counties for the N.C. Cooperative Extension. Originally from South Florida, she has a Master’s degree in Biology from Florida Atlantic University where she studied seagrass ecology and water quality in the Florida Everglades and Florida Bay. As the Natural Resource Agent for N.C. Cooperative Extension, she assists residents with issues related to water quality, stormwater, erosion, and native habitat restoration.

Presentation Slides

Coastal Ecology Part 1 Geology and Physical setting

Coastal Ecology Part 2 Habitats

Coastal Ecology Part 3 Habitats and Sea Level Rise

Additional Resources

Seacoast Plants of the Carolinas, Paul Hosier

The Nature of North Carolina's Southern Coast, Dirk Frankenberg

Nature Guide to the Carolina Coast, Peter Meyer

The Battle for North Carolina's Coast, Stanley Riggs et al.