Part 1, Monday, was an introduction to these exciting programs. Part 2, Tuesday, highlighted the Harvest the Bay Day happening this Saturday, August 9 from 3-8pm. Part 3, Wednesday, gave the “Insider’s Look” into the amazing outdoor programs, told through the words of the experts teaching the programs at Island Beach State Park. And Part 4, Thursday, was a roundtable interview with the Island Beach State Park naturalists.
by Brooke Sambol
Among the many programs visitors can enjoy at Island Beach State Park, clamming is one that truly sticks out. Until I started working in the park, I had never been clamming, and now it’s one of my favorite programs to lead.
We take visitors out into Barnegat Bay, where we use clam rakes or our feet to locate and scoop up Quahog and sometimes surf clams. Due to the nature of clamming, this program attracts people of varying ages. It’s very common to have both adults and children sign up for a clamming tour. The mix of ages creates a great dynamic, where both adults and children have fun experiencing the bay from a hands-on approach.
A clam rake is offered for the program, but I always prefer using my feet. Digging my toes into the sand in search of clams is a grounding experience for me. Searching the bay with just my body fosters a feeling of closeness to nature; it’s here that I’m grateful that I live so close to the water. Not to mention, finding a clam after searching a while is very exciting!
All in all, clamming is one of my favorite programs at Island Beach State Park, and our visitors seem to share the sentiment.
To join a clamming program at Island Beach State Park, click here!
Brooke Sambol is a Wildlife Intern with the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey
Tags: 2014, new jersey wildlife, wildlife