The designation made this site part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS), which was established as a state-federal partnership dedicated to conservation, research, education, and  stewardship in America’s estuaries. The 28 sites in the National Estuarine Research Reserve System represents the range of coastal and marine habitats in the US and its territories. These sites serve as laboratories and classrooms where the effects of natural and human activities on estuaries can be monitored and studied, with the purpose of generating and providing information to better manage and conserve our valuable coastal resources.

To learn more about training, education, research, and stewardship programs offered, please visit the North Inlet-Winyah Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve website.