Instructor: John McCord

Biography: Bio
John McCord joined the UNC Coastal Studies Institute in October of 2005. Prior to this role, John served as the Education Manager at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California.

EducationUniversity of North Carolina at Wilmington B.A. Natural Resource Recreation Management
Focus: Biological Sciences

Current Projects
John is responsible for communicating the research and activities of the UNC Coastal Studies Institute to an assortment of audiences including local government officials, university faculty, teachers, K-12 students and the general public. John fulfills this mission through a variety of education and outreach methods including workshops, publications, press coverage, multi-media and web based learning.

John is interested in partnership opportunities that will increase the reach of the UNC Coastal Studies institute. He is currently developing relationships with a variety of organizations around northeastern and coastal North Carolina that will help expand the influence of UNC-CSI while providing resource sharing opportunities for coastal marine education.

Classes by this instructor

CSI Evening in the Estuary

Evening in the Estuary will be held in the evening on July 27, August 24, and September 14 from 4 PM to about 6 PM. These programs will include a boat ride through the Croatan Sound to a marsh island to wade the shallow waters, survey the sandy shores, and explore the grassy uplands. Participants will learn about estuarine biology and ecology, investigate plant and animal adaptations, seine for critters, and more. These programs are open to the public and are suitable for elementary and middle school-aged children accompanied by their adult(s).Weather Policy: Evening in the Estuary is a weather dependent program. In the event of inclement weather, including thunderstorms and high winds, family friendly back-up activities are slotted to replace the on-the-water program. What to Wear: Participants should come prepared to be outside and get wet. A bathing suit, towel, and sun protection are recommended. All participants must wear closed-toed shoes to participate.
Thursday, October 12, 2023, Coastal Studies Institute
Wednesday, November 1, 2023, Coastal Studies Institute

From Tide to Table: Exploring Oyster Ecology, Farming, and Culinary Delights

Join us for an educational evening and tasting event focused on North Carolina oysters. This event will take place at the NC Coastal Federation Office in Wanchese and at the Coastal Studies Institute on the ECU Outer Banks Campus. Program participants will tour the NC Coastal Federation's demonstration oyster farm while hearing about the statewide oyster blueprint and speaking with local oyster farmers. Back at the Coastal Studies Institute, guests will sample a variety of locally sourced wild and farm-raised oysters provided by Cousins Oysters. During the evening, CSI/ECU scientists will share their research on oyster farms and guests will interact with a panel of industry experts about the future of oysters and oyster farming in North Carolina. Cost $135 per person and includes raw and roasted oysters with creative toppings and accompaniments paired with a selection of beverages, including wine and beer.
Friday, October 27, 2023, Coastal Studies Institute

Guided Tours of the ECU Outer Banks Campus, home to the Coastal Studies Institute

Guided tours of the ECU Outer Banks Campus, home to the Coastal Studies Institute
Wednesday, October 11, 2023, Coastal Studies Institute