Topsail Beach

Paddle Trail

North Carolina’s Hidden

Treasure

Prepared by Caroline Cook Casey Martin Jessica Stitt Liz Vander Clute

University of North Carolina-Wilmington

2014 1

Table of Contents

Table of Contents ……………………………………………………………………... 1 Introduction …………………………………………………………………………… 2 Site Description ………………………………………………………………………... 2 Need for Interpretation ……………………………………………………………….. 2 Town Goals Our Project Goals and Objectives …………………………………………………………………. 3 Theme-based Analysis ………………………………………………………………... 3 Theme Subthemes Analysis Signage and Site Modifications ..…………………………………………………….. 5 Interpretive Strategy Justification…………………………………………………………………………. 5 QR Code Stops……………………………………………………………………... 6 Audio Trail Guide Stops 1-12 Brochure……………………………………………………………………………. 9 Safety Tips Online Materials ………………………………………………………………….... 10 Citizen Science Projects ……………………………………………………………… 10 Considerations for Accessibility …………………………………………………….. 11 Potential Partnerships ……………………………………………………………….. 12 Potential Funding Sources …………………………………………………………... 12 Project Implementation ……………………………………………………………… 13 Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 References ……………………………………………………………………………. 14 Appendix Online Post-paddle Questionnaire …………………………………………………. 16 Brochure……………………………………………………………………………. 18 Mockup of QR Code Stop………………………………………………………….. 20 Mockup of Online Materials……………………………………………………….. 20 Mockup of Buoy …………………………………………………………………... 21 Mockup of Topsail Beach Paddle Trail Logo……………………………………… 22

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Introduction

The Topsail Beach Paddle Trail (TBPT), located behind Topsail Beach in Pender County, North Carolina, offers visitors the opportunity to explore the island’s scenic marshes and waterways at a relaxed pace. Several University of North Carolina Wilmington students and faculty have worked hard to map and implement these trails. This document details an interpretive plan to accompany their efforts. Interpretation of the TBPT will highlight the island’s unique cultural history as well as its thriving natural resources, and encourage paddlers to be good stewards of the trail.

Site Analysis

Topsail Island is a beautiful 26 mile barrier island that extends down the coast of North Carolina. The island is home to three communities: North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and Topsail Beach. Located on the southern end of Topsail Island, Topsail Beach is a small, close-knit community that prides itself on the rich cultural history and unique ecological benefits offered by the surrounding area. Like all barrier islands, Topsail Beach has water on both sides of the island. Towards the east lies the Atlantic Ocean, and to the west lies the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), a 3,000 mile network of bays, rivers, and sounds that run the length of the Eastern Seaboard. The Topsail Beach Paddle Trail will wrap around approximately 12 miles of the ICW in the waters behind Topsail Beach. The TBPT will be broken down into three trails of different lengths: green, red, and yellow. The trails will be 2.5, 4.5, and 5.5 miles long, respectively.

The green trail, the shortest in length, weaves a figure eight through the tidal creeks and salt marshes. The medium length trail, the red, also winds through tidal creeks, into the ICW, and goes past town. One of Topsail Island’s iconic landmark missile towers is visible from this trail. The longest trail, marked in yellow, takes a unique route past the New Topsail Inlet, into the ICW, and through tidal creeks.

Topsail Beach has two soundside sites that will be available to use as launching locations for the visitors to the trail. The northernmost launching site is Bush Marina, which has ample parking and a boat trailer ramp. There are also restrooms and an informational kiosk located there. The second launching location is a dock owned by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), located near the southern tip of the island. Parking and a kiosk is also available here, along with a sandy beach for a different type of launch.

Need for Interpretation

Topsail Island is rich in both cultural and natural history, and this trail will provide an opportunity to interpret its resources to a wider audience. The average visitor to Topsail Beach is likely aware of some of the elements of the town’s history and natural resources. For example, the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, recently relocated to Surf City, is a popular destination for visitors from across the island. In addition, the island’s missile observation towers are prominent landmarks, and the town’s Missiles and 3

More Museum tells the story of the island’s history as the site of Operation Bumblebee. The Topsail Beach Paddle Trail will complement these existing resources by providing an overview of the island’s unique features, by highlighting elements of the island’s ecology that might otherwise go uninterpreted, and by reaching a potentially different audience than the other existing facilities.

Kayaking and canoeing are already popular activities in the marshes behind Topsail Beach, and the establishment of paddling trails will only encourage further use. Interpretation will promote a greater appreciation for the wildlife, history, and culture of Topsail Beach, and more importantly, will encourage stewardship of this North Carolina treasure.

This interpretive trail will support the Town of Topsail Beach in a number of ways. Although paddling is already popular here, the trail will increase the town’s visibility as a paddling destination. Promotion of the trail at tourism information centers across the region can encourage visitation even in slower winter months. Stops about the history of the island will encourage interested guests to visit the Missiles and More Museum and to explore other areas of the town. In addition, the trail may lead to increased economic development opportunities, such as a kayak and paddleboard rental business. The trail will use minimal signage, relying on smartphone technology and brochures to provide quality interpretation. Finally, the message of the trail will emphasize that Topsail Beach is a unique treasure, and that paddlers should be sure to always be good stewards of the trail and the island’s resources.

Goals and Objectives

1. By using these interpretive materials, paddle trail users will gain a greater knowledge of the unique natural and cultural history of Topsail Island.  Trail users will learn that Topsail’s history, ecology, and geology have been shaped by powerful natural forces as well as by human development.  Trail users will learn that both humans and wildlife use the marshes, and that maintaining a balance between these uses is important. 2. Paddle trail users will understand the importance of stewardship and the need to keep the trails pristine for future paddlers.  Trail users will understand the importance of practicing low impact principles by taking out everything they bring in, respecting wildlife, and being courteous to other trail users.  Some will contribute to the trail’s long-term viability by joining the Friends of Topsail Beach Paddle Trail, donating money to the trail’s maintenance and improvement fund (administered by the Friends), or by participating in an Adopt- a-Trail program

Theme-based Analysis

Theme In the marshes nestled behind Topsail Beach, natural beauty and rich cultural history combine to make a true North Carolina treasure. 4

Sub-theme 1 As you paddle through these inlets and tidal creeks, you’re tracing paths that have also been used by others throughout the island’s rich history: unsavory pirates, hardworking fishermen, and top-secret military researchers.

Sub-theme 2 Survival can be a challenge for the plants and animals that call the island home. From the everyday ebb and flow of the tides, to the rare but destructive hurricanes that buffet the island, constant change requires constant adaptation in this delicately balanced ecosystem.

Analysis Topsail Island has a rich and varied history. Its name dates to the 18th century, when pirates, including Blackbeard, used the island as a hideout. Pirate ships would lay in wait behind the island and attack passing merchant vessels. Eventually, these merchants learned to keep watch for the “top sails” of pirate ships above the island’s dunes (Town of Topsail Beach).

Topsail Island also played a critical part in the development of the United States’ space program. During and immediately after World War II, the entire island was the site of the top-secret Operation Bumblebee. Military researchers built rockets in the Assembly Building, a specially designed building that today holds the Missiles and More Museum. In addition, the navy built a series of observation towers along the length of the island to monitor missile launches. Many of these towers still stand today; some are preserved as historical landmarks, while others have been renovated into private or rental homes (Town of Topsail Beach; Missiles and More Museum).

Visitors to Topsail, and especially to the tidal creeks and salt marshes, might also observe another facet of the island’s cultural history that is still important today. Crabbing and oystering have historically provided sustenance to local residents, and today, crab pots and oyster leases are an important part of the local economy.

Topsail’s wildlife is typical of a North Carolina barrier island. The salt marsh is dominated by typical marsh plants, and supports a variety of animals including wading birds, ducks, birds of prey, blue crabs, periwinkle snails, oysters, diamondback terrapins, and others. To survive in a salt marsh habitat, organisms must be able to adapt to constant changes in water level and salinity.

Life on a barrier island is both ancient and ever-changing, and perhaps no animal better illustrates this than the sea turtle. The island is an important site for nesting sea turtles, in some summers hosting hundreds of nests that produce thousands of hatchlings (Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center). These creatures have evolved very little over the past 100 million years, but at the same time, the beaches that they return to every summer are constantly moved and reshaped.

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Signage and Site Modification

Within the three paddle trails, there will be a total of 12 site markers signifying the locations of the QR codes. There will be minimal to no site modification, as the process behind the installment of the signs is not invasive to the environment. Each site marker is a simple buoy. The buoy is attached to a line with a weight which allows the buoy to stay rooted while moving up and down with the changing tides. Attached to the side of the buoy will be an aluminum sign. Aluminum is the best choice of metal, as it is slow to corrode in the saltwater. The sign will show the name and number of the stop, along with the QR code for that site. Each buoy will be marked by a series of colored stripes that represents the particular trail that is a part of. All 12 buoys will be marked with two teal stripes that sandwich a colored stripe of each trail; green, yellow, or red. Teal was chosen to accent the trail colors so the buoys can be seen from far away, and also, the unique pattern will distinguish them from other navigational and crab trap buoys. An example image of a buoy and tag can be found in the Appendix. Aside from the buoy and attached tag, there will not be any additional signage or infrastructure implemented on the actual paddle trails.

At the two publicly advertised launching locations, Bush Marina and the USACE dock, there will be informational kiosks available for visitors to use as a reference for trail information before they begin. These weatherproof kiosks will display an enlarged paddle trail map, a short description of each trail, labeled images of potential wildlife that may be seen, and a tips page that will make recommendations towards a safe and enjoyable paddle. The kiosks will also include contact information for town services such as the police department, fire department, and town hall. On each of the kiosks, there will also be a QR code that links to a “Welcome to the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail” audio and visual page. There will be a monetary donation box next to each kiosk. These boxes will be small and require little maintenance.

Interpretive Strategy

Justification

There will be twelve stops along the three trails that make up the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail. Within these twelve stops, cultural history, natural ecology, and stewardship of the local area are all addressed. Visitors have multiple options to access information as they paddle along the trail. All stops are marked with a buoy, a name and number, and a specific QR. QR codes, when scanned with a smartphone, will take the visitor to online materials for that particular stop. Printable materials for each stop are also available online for those without smartphones. In an attempt to make the trail accessible to as many people as possible, when the QR is scanned, an audio of the information will begin to play. Instead of staring at a phone, attempting to read the small screen, a visitor can enjoy listening to the educational information read aloud. The audio portion of the trail allows for visitors to sit back and relax, viewing the beauty and history of Topsail as it is described to them. For those people with hearing impairments, a readable version of the educational information will be available below the video. 6

QR Stops

1. The Top Sails of Topsail Shiver me timbers! Did you know that Topsail got its name back when pirates sailed these waters? Historians say that plundering pirates used to use Topsail Island as a place to hide out as they waited for merchant ships to sail by. It was the perfect place for protection before they attacked and claimed all the merchants’ goods! Folklore says that the ruthless crew of the Queen Anne’s Revenge, led by Blackbeard himself, would hide in the waters between the island and the mainland and launch their attacks from the inlet. The island claimed the name “Topsail” in the early 1700s when the captains of the merchant ships learned to spot the sails of the top masts of the pirate ships camped out on the other side of the island.

2. Topsail’s Turtles Life on a barrier island is both ancient and ever-changing, and perhaps no animal better illustrates this than the sea turtle. These creatures have evolved very little over the past 100 million years, but at the same time, the beaches that they return to every summer are constantly moved and reshaped by ocean currents and powerful hurricanes. Topsail Island is an important site for nesting sea turtles, in some summers hosting hundreds of nests that produce thousands of hatchlings.

All of the sea turtles of Topsail are endangered. Their populations have been impacted by habitat loss, accidental capture by fishermen, and by marine debris. Discarded balloons and plastic bags bobbing in the water closely resemble jellyfish, turtles’ favorite food. When turtles try to eat this litter, they often choke on it.

Many dedicated people work to protect the turtles of Topsail. Volunteers monitor nests and help ensure that sea turtle hatchlings make it to the ocean. In addition, staff of the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City work tirelessly to care for injured turtles and help them return to the wild.

3. Hang on Tight! How does the water look today? Are there any waves? Imagine trying to paddle your boat in six foot seas and 75 mile per hour winds! The water you are paddling on today could possibly look just like that if a hurricane or tropical storm swept through. During the months of April to September, Topsail Beach is susceptible to these powerful storms that can ravage the coast. In the past 150 years, the state of North Carolina has been hit directly by over 50 hurricanes! Hurricanes are so powerful that they can change the shape and structure of the land they hit.

Take a look out over the water to the front of your boat. Do you see the gap between the two islands that opens up to the ocean? That’s New Topsail Inlet. An inlet is a passage leading from the sea to the waters on the inside of the island. When severe storms hit barrier islands like Topsail, they sometimes cut through the islands to create new inlets. The inlet you see in front of you was formed in just this way.

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4. Shifting Sands As you are paddling along, you may notice a few pipes protruding out from some areas of the salt marsh. These areas are referred to as spoil islands. Spoil islands are created through the collection of sand, or “spoils,” left over from dredging waterways. In this area specifically, the New Topsail Inlet is occasionally dredged and deposited, using the pipes, on the two spoil islands within the Topsail Island area. Although spoil islands are manmade, they provide diverse habitat to hundreds of plant and animals species and provide an important rookery for nesting birds. Try to identify a few of these species as you paddle along!

5. Intracoastal Waterway Are you tired of paddling yet? If you’re feeling really ambitious, you can paddle from here all the way to Miami! Right now you’re on the Intracoastal Waterway, a series of canals, bays, sounds and other waterways that runs over 3,000 miles, from New Jersey to Miami. Some parts of the waterway are important for commercial traffic, but around here, the ICW is mostly used for recreation. During World War II, the ICW was especially important, as it allowed ships to travel the eastern seaboard without venturing into the ocean, where submarines lurked.

This portion of the ICW is also part of the Southeast Coast Saltwater Paddling Trail, an unbroken paddling trail that stretches from the Chesapeake Bay to the Florida-Georgia state line.

6. Feathered Fishermen It may be hard to believe, but humans are not the only ones who fish for their dinner. There are many bird species that rely on the waters surrounding Topsail Beach for their meals. While you are paddling along, look at the tops of the navigational channel markers and the dead trees in the marsh to see if you can find an osprey perched or nesting there. The reason that ospreys nest on higher structures is because, from those heights, they can easily spot their fish dinner! These beautifully feathered hunters are just one of many flying predators that can be seen pursuing prey near the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail. Like ospreys, pelicans can be spotted plunge-diving to the water to collect their prey. Pelicans scoop up prey into their throat pouches and swallow it whole, while osprey use their talons and beak to eat. On the other hand, herons and egrets, known for their sharp beaks, long necks, and tall legs, hunt close to the marsh edge, stalking and striking their unknowing prey in only a second’s time!

7. Divers and Dabblers Aquatic vegetation may seem slimy or icky, but for ducks and some other birds, it is actually a delicious buffet. Different kind of ducks feed on underwater plants, as well as on the insects and snails that rely on these plants for habitat.

Just as people use different pieces of silverware to eat different types of food, ducks’ bills and bodies are specially designed based on what they prefer to eat. Some ducks use their sense of touch to forage in murky waters, so their bills are specially adapted with soft edges to help them identify what is edible. Many duck bills have special structures called lamellae, which look a bit like a comb, that help strain out water and mud from their food. A type of duck called a shoveler, has an especially wide, flat bill that is uses to scoop up insects from 8 the water’s surface. Hooded mergansers, which eat fish and underwater insects, have small, pointed bills that help them catch their prey. Canvasbacks, by contrast, have strong, wedge- shaped bills that they use to tear up roots. Birds’ beaks are just one example of how wildlife adapts to life in the marsh.

8. A Fishermen’s Way of Life One of Topsail Beach’s many treasures is its fisheries, which provide sustenance to wildlife and humans alike. North Carolina’s coast is renowned for its locally harvested oysters and blue crabs. During the summer, blue crabs congregate in the warm waters of the estuary. Take a look around and you’ll be able to see the presence of the crabbing industry. As you paddle through the marsh you may come across quite a few buoys bobbing in the water. Many of these are crab pots! North Carolina is the leading producer of blue crabs in the United States, thanks to local fisherman who have perfected their craft.

Oysters are another valuable part of the salt marsh ecosystem. Harvesting oysters has been a tradition for North Carolina fisherman since the late 1800’s. In addition to providing a tasty meal, oysters filter the marsh’s waters. In many parts of the state, water quality is so poor that oysters cannot be safely eaten, but Topsail Beach’s clean waters ensure that that this seafood source is readily available.

9. Towers of Topsail An interesting part of Topsail Island’s history is revealed in eight distinctive towers scattered throughout the island, on both the beach and sound side. These towers played a significant role in Operation Bumblebee, a top-secret Navy project that was located on Topsail Island. They were referred to as masonry observation towers, and The Navy used them to observe missile tests. There were nine original towers, one of which was a control tower. Over the decades these towers have withstood the test of time, including destruction from numerous hurricanes, and all but one of these towers is still standing today. While some of these towers are left untouched just as they were in the 1940’s, others have been cleverly transformed into residences. One of the towers is visible from this paddle trail. Look towards Topsail Beach to see if you can spy this historic landmark. For those who live and vacation on Topsail Island, these towers serve as distinct reminders of the island’s rich historic past.

10. Operation Bumblebee Did you know that Topsail Island was once home to a top-secret Navy program? It’s true! In the 1940’s, towards the end of World War two, Topsail Island was closed to the public as the U.S Navy and John Hopkins University began a joint adventure developing and testing missiles. The program is named after a bumblebee because many people believe that bumblebees aerodynamically should not be able to fly, yet somehow, they do! Topsail was the first permanent ground location for missile testing. Over the course of eighteen months, the Navy developed two hundred experimental missiles, each measuring approximately six inches in diameter and between three and thirteen feet in length. These missiles were fired along the shore up to distances of forty miles! The location of Operation Bumblebee became problematic as sea traffic increased and weather conditions interfered with equipment testing. After a successful eighteen month run, the Navy packed up Operation Bumblebee and moved 9 onto another site. Topsail Island is a true historic landmark for our country, as it marked the beginning of the United States’ Space Program with Operation Bumblebee.

11. Salt Marsh Ecology A salt marsh may appear to be just grass and water, but in reality, it’s so much more: a diverse array of plants and animals that live and thrive below the surface. Salt marshes are home to many different organisms. Many small animals live in this habitat because it is safe and secluded, including one called the Marsh Periwinkle. The periwinkle is a type of marine snail which attaches itself to the grasses. Look closely to see if you can see these little snails. Periwinkles move up and down the grasses depending on the tides and to escape from their predators.

Young animals also grow and thrive in this habitat because it is protected by grasses on one side and by the river on the other. These organisms can include reptiles such as diamondback terrapins, fish such as striped mullet or spot, and invertebrates such as blue crabs or white shrimp. Salt marshes are not pure salt water; they are a perfect mix of fresh and salt water, also called an estuary. Another type of animal, known as scavengers, are also important to the health of the marsh. Scavengers such as fiddler crabs feed on the dead and decaying material, helping keep the water clean. The water in the estuary isn't as clear as the ocean due to the decaying plant matter, but this marsh is still a healthy place where wildlife thrives.

12. Stewardship We are all caretakers of this beautiful paddle trail. Help protect these beneficial salt marshes by taking out any trash you bring in, avoiding damage to any habitats, and respecting the wildlife that makes the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail home. Also remember to always be courteous to other paddlers and boaters on your journey. And most importantly, please take away only your memories, and leave only your paddlestrokes.

Brochure

The brochure created for the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail includes: interpretive sign topics, trail details, launch site information, safety tips, contact information, a map, and a brief tutorial on QR codes. This brochure is intended to serve as a guide for trail visitors as well as to educate the general public on everything the TBPT has to offer.

The inside portion of the brochure is dedicated to the map and trail information. The large map draws out the paths of each trail and marks significant locations such as launch sites, restrooms, and parking. The information beneath the map provides the visitor with a brief overview of the trail’s 12 interpretive signs, with topics ranging from the history of pirates to local fishing practices in Topsail. The back of the brochure provides valuable tips and information for visitors interested in paddling this trail. Visitors are able to obtain the exact addresses of the launch sites for this trail to make accessibility even easier. The town of Topsail Beach’s contact information is also prominently displayed on the back panel for any further inquiries. Additionally, two sections were created to give visitors tips in order to ensure a safer and more enjoyable paddle; these sections are the safety tips section and the QR code tutorial section. The safety tips section outlines five important safety precautions 10 that paddlers of all levels should follow on this trail including checking the weather, bringing appropriate gear, having a paddle plan, knowing their surroundings, and staying hydrated. The QR code tutorial on the back page lists four easy steps demonstrating the proper use of QR scanning. Having access to a QR code tutorial is essential for this trail as all interpretive signs will be accessed through QR codes.

These brochures will be readily available at the Town of Topsail Beach Town Hall, along with numerous visitor centers, paddle shops, and local hotels in the coastal North Carolina area. Dispersing these brochures throughout coastal North Carolina will attract a broader range of visitors to the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail. This brochure will also be published online on the Topsail Beach website to reach potential paddlers on an even larger scale.

Online Materials Provided in the Appendix is a mockup of Stop 8, A Fishermen’s Way of Life, found along the red trail. Although our interpretive strategy is focused around the audio and video portion, there will still be written text found below each video. The mockup in the Appendix shows what the writing would look like on a smartphone or computer when brought up.

Along with the writing from each stop, the website will be filled with educational materials and resources for the visitors. Once the trail is implemented, the website for the paddle trail will be found at www.topsailbeachpaddetrail.com. Printable materials will also be available here for anyone to access. People can also find links to the trail’s partnerships, volunteer and donation opportunities, and a calendar of upcoming events related to the trail and other local environmental and paddling events. A unique page that can be linked to from the website will be the ‘Tiny Trailblazers’ page. This page is the children’s corner. Fun, interactive games and print-offs will be accessible for families and their children. One such activity that will be provided is a Treasure Hunt that could be fun for people of all ages. This can be brought out on the trail and people can check off the items as they see or hear them.

The website will also be equipped with a survey for the trail participants to fill out on completion of their adventure. This survey will help document the experiences of the visitors and help gain data to assess the effectiveness of the interpretive materials provided. This document can be found in the Appendix of this paper.

Citizen Science

One unique attribute of this trail plan is the use of citizen science programs. Citizen science is a way for people who are not formally trained as scientists to help with research on many different topics. There are many different categories of citizen science, and we have specifically chosen three to include in our plan.

The first is Project Noah, a mobile application (app) through which people observing nature can upload their pictures into the global database in this app. Whether they are unsure of the name of the organism, or just want to know more information, the app can provide this information to them. The mission of Project Noah is to help scientists collect data while also providing an opportunity for the public to participate in the research. After participants 11 upload their pictures, the app also awards them with badges, motivating the participants to continue their data collection.

Another citizen science program is Osprey Watch, a program created by the Center for Conservation Biology, whose goals include research, education, and effective management in conservation. This program gives observers an opportunity to become an “Osprey Watcher.” On the website, users sign in and choose a nest they would like to monitor. They are then asked to monitor this nest 1-4 times a month. They are asked to include data about the ospreys as well as take pictures. This program would appeal to avid birders and new birders alike.

The final program is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Marine Debris Tracker program. This program also includes an app that allows people to take pictures of the debris they encounter and upload the picture, as well as information about the type of the trash and its location. The mission of this program is to spread awareness of marine debris across the world in hopes that people will just leave their footprints behind instead of their trash.

The TBPT, through its use of QR-based interpretation, already encourages paddlers to bring and use their smartphones as they explore the trails. These apps can help interested trail users further connect to Topsail’s natural resources.

Considerations for Accessibility

A goal of the paddle trail is to make the waters around Topsail available to as many people as possible. One benefit of a water based trail is that there are no limits on trail width. A person in a wheelchair will not be prohibited from participating on the trail due to wheelchair inaccessibility. In addition, single-passenger, multi-passenger, or specialized boats can be utilized on the water depending on a paddler’s physical or mental state. There are two advertised public access points for the trail; one is from a dock, and the other is from a sandy shoreline. As a result, paddlers can choose an access point that makes them comfortable. If funding is available, access points will include additional accessible features, including a long metal bar placed vertically along a shallow dock pile-on. This bar will allow for stabilization during entry and exit of a boat craft. Bush Marina already has parking reserved for those with physical challenges, and the USACE launch site could easily be modified to include a reserved space.

Those individuals who are visually impaired have the ability to choose to paddle with another passenger. The interpretive materials available for the trail will include an audio version of the guided tour. This audio portion of the paddle trail will also benefit those without smartphones and those individuals with attention disorders. For guests who are hearing impaired or do not have access to a smartphone or mp3 player, the trail brochure, supplemented by printable information available online, will prove beneficial.

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The Topsail Paddle Trail aims to appeal to as many individuals as possible; therefore, there will be a Spanish audio option available to those who feel more comfortable listening in Spanish.

Recommendations for alternative options will be available on the trail’s website for those who have a disability or are traveling with a disabled individual. The National Center on Accessibility will provide a consultation plan for the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail to create the most accessible trail possible for those people with disabilities. ADA standards will be implemented on the trail to help achieve this.

Potential Partnerships

The trail’s most valuable partnership lies with the Town of Topsail Beach itself. The townspeople and the local businesses will be a vital asset in the promotion of the paddle trail. They have the most exposure to the local waterways, and their support is essential to the trail’s implementation and success. The Friends of Topsail, which will likely include town residents, will also provide vital upkeep and maintenance.

The University North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) will also be a valuable partner for the paddle trail. Seahawk Adventures, the outdoor outreach portion of the Student Recreation Center, can promote activities and events that use the trail. Through this, the trail will gain exposure and a following. Many UNCW courses, including science laboratory sections, could take advantage of the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail as a site for hands-on learning. Students and faculty from UNCW will also participate in the active Friends group.

Partnerships will also be created with local clubs and camps. Summer camps such as Sea Turtle Camp and Marine Quest have already (see appendix) provided letters of support for the trail, and could take advantage of this new educational, outdoor adventure.

To encourage ongoing stewardship and protection of the trails, interested organizations can participate in an Adopt-a-Trail program. Adopting a trail would require organizing volunteers to maintain signage and clean up litter along the trails. Any of the above organizations could be potential participants in this program.

Potential Funding Sources

The Town of Topsail Beach has allotted $2,500 for initial efforts for the trail, but additional funding will be needed for its future preservation. The state of North Carolina offers numerous sources of funding for educational trails and parks like this one. For over 25 years, the North Carolina Natural Heritage Trust Fund has financially supported organizations that value and help preserve the cultural and ecological heritage of the state. These areas include habitats of threatened or endangered species, natural areas of ecological significance, and lands that maintain the natural heritage of the state. Also, the Town of Topsail’s missile lookout towers are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Therefore, multiple attributes of the paddle trail make it eligible for this grant.

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The paddle trail is also eligible for a grant through the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office, which offers grants to non-profits and local governments that incorporate education programs into the preservation of places on the National Register of Historic Places.

Other funding sources can come from organizations that offer grants to recreational trails that benefit both the environment and the community. Examples of organizations that offer these include the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, which provides matching grants for public enrichment projects; Outdoor Nation, an outdoor organization that offers paddle trail and exploration grants; and North Carolina’s Clean Water Management Trust Fund, which supports greenways, like the paddle trail, that provide educational and ecological benefits.

Another unique feature that will provide continuous funding to the trail will be donation boxes located at the two launching sites. Nature centers and other recreation sites frequently use donation boxes to collect funds because they are easy to implement and maintain, and provide significant funds. As visitors to the trail come and go, they have the opportunity to donate money towards the continuation of the trail. The Friends of Topsail will be in charge of collecting the donations and delivering them to an account controlled by the town of Topsail Beach. The money collected will go towards projects such as maintenance of signs, printing of brochures and other educational materials, and potential future enhancements to the trail and to the launching sites to provide better accessibility.

Project Implementation

Phase 1 This phase of the trail is what this paper outlines. This phase involves the initial implementation of the signage, website, and brochure distribution.

Phase 2 Phase 2 will incorporate promotional events that will take place on the TBPT. Events such as birding events; clean up days; paddleboard, kayak, and canoe races; and seafood festivals will provide funding and exposure for both the town and the trail. These events will also spark community involvement and public participation.

Another goal of Phase 2 is to implement more ADA accessible elements along the trail. Through funding from grants and collected funds from the donation boxes, more options will be available to choose from to reach the trail’s accessibility goals.

Phase 3 Phase 3 will occur over time as the TBPT becomes a recognized, widely used national paddle trail. There is an empty building near the Bush Marina launching site, the former location of the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. The creation of a combined rental and guided tour shop would bring additional funding and economic opportunity to the town and the trail. Tours and lessons can be given around the ICW and people can rent out 14

equipment at their leisure. This shop would spread the love of paddling to countless individuals, and continue to share the unique treasure that is the Topsail Beach Paddle Trail.

References

Allegood, J. (2011) Tar heel blue crabs: still the state’s most valuable seafood. Coastwatch (Autumn Issue). Retrieved from http://www.ncseagrant.org/home/coastwatch/coastwatch- articles?task=showArticle&id=706

Ansari, Y., (2013). About Project Noah, Retrieved from http://www.projectnoah.org/

Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, (2013, May 10th). How many direct hits by hurricanes of various categories have affected each state? Retrieved from http://www.aoml.noaa.gov/hrd/tcfaq/E19.html Beasley, J., (2014). The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. Retrieved from http://www.seaturtlehospital.org/

Center for Conservation Biology, (2013). About Osprey Watch. Retrieved from http://www.osprey-watch.org/ Davis, Brian (n.d.) The Scoop on Duck Bills. Retrieved from http://www.ducks.org/conservation/waterfowl-biology/the-scoop-on-duck-bills Encyclopædia Britannica, (2014). Intracoastal Waterway. Retrieved From http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/291932/Intracoastal-Waterway

Florida Department of Environmental Protection, (2012). History. Retrieved from http://spoilislandproject.org/about-us/

Jambeck, J., (2014). About Marine Debris Tracker. Retrieved from http://www.marinedebris.engr.uga.edu/

Maryland Cooperative Extension, (n.d.). Riparian Buffers. Retrieved from http://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/riparianbuffers/FS610.pdf

Missiles and More Museum, Topsail Island, North Carolina.(n.d.) Pirates. Retrieved from http://missilesandmoremuseum.org/exhibits/pirates/

M Legeros. (2012, March) Topsail towers – Operation bumblebee. Retrieved from http://www.legeros.com/ralwake/photos/weblog/pivot/entry.php?id=5135

National Center on Accessibility, (2014). About. Retrieved from http://www.ncaonline.org/ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, (2014, March 14th). What is a salt marsh? Retrieved from http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/saltmarsh.html 15

North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office, (2014). 2014 Historic Preservation Fund Pass-through Grants for Historic Preservation Projects in Certified Local Government Jurisdictions. Retrieved from http://www.hpo.ncdcr.gov/grants/grants2014.html

North Carolina State Parks, (2014) N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF). Retrieved from http://www.ncparks.gov/About/grants/partf_main.php O’Connell, J.T, (2014). Crab fishing in North Carolina. Livestrong. Retrieved from http://www.livestrong.com/article/256823-crab-fishing-in-north-carolina/

Town of Topsail Beach, (2014). History of Topsail Beach. Retrieved from http://www.topsailbeach.org/AboutTopsailBeach/HistoryofTopsailBeach/tabid/94/Defaul t.aspx

US Naval Ordinance Test Facilities, Topsail Island MPS. National Park Service, Aviation: From Sand Dunes to Sonic Bombs. Retrieved from http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr/travel/aviation/usn.html

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Appendix

Questionnaire

Topsail Island Paddle Trail Questionnaire

Please fill in the bubble next to each category you fit into, or write a response when necessary. Thank you! 1) Age: ○ [0-17] ○ [18-25] ○ [25-40] ○ [40-60] ○ [60+]

2) Gender: ○ Male ○ Female

3) Race: ○ American Indian ○ Asian ○ Black ○ Hispanic ○ White ○ Other (specify) ______

4) Which region of North Carolina do you live in? ○ Mountains ○ Piedmont ○ Coastal Plain ○ Out of state

5) How often do you go paddling? ○ Never ○ Rarely (one or two times a year) ○ Sometimes (a few times a year) 17

○ Often (monthly) ○ On a regular basis (weekly)

6) How many of the trails did you paddle today? ○ 1 ○ 2 ○ 3

7) How did you hear about this paddle trail? ○ Google search ○ Topsail Beach website ○ Social media site (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) ○ Through a friend ○ Other (specify) ______

8) What information is most important to you when choosing a paddle trail? Choose all that apply ○ Accessibility of specific site features (parking, restrooms, launch sites, trail maps) ○ Educational/Interpretive services ○ Rental shop on site ○ Guided tours or paddling lessons offered ○ Other (specify) ______

9) Below is a list of features from this paddle trail. Please place a check mark under the heading that best fits your feelings towards that feature.

Strongly Strongly Trail Feature dislike Dislike Neutral Like like Buoy Navigational Markers QR codes

Audio/Video Feature of Interpretation

10) Will you return to this trail? Why or why not?

______

12) Would you refer this paddle trail to others? Why or why not? 18

______

Thank you for your time.

Brochure Outside

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Brochure Inside

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Website Mockup

Audio and Video Mockup

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Buoy Example

RED TRAIL Vertically Floating Buoy

STOP # 8

Buoy Mockup from Stop 8 on the Red Trail

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Topsail Beach Paddle Trail Logo