Dominion Energy supports novel scientific research at the Avian Conservation Center
June 6, 2017
The Avian Conservation Center/Center for Birds of Prey announced today a $5,000 environmental education and stewardship grant from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation for the 2017 Coastal Raptor Migration Technology and Education Initiative. From Sept. 1 through Nov. 30 this project will engage students from Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties, researchers, and citizen scientists in the study of migrating raptors at the Center’s campus in Awendaw through the novel use of modified marine radar, hands on learning experiences utilizing wild birds of prey and integrated STEM curriculum. Migration surveys will be conducted from a bird observation platform each day from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Now in its 22nd year, the Center’s annual raptor migration survey contributes valuable data on populations of migrating raptors to the Hawk Migration Association of North America. The Center is currently the only site in North America to utilize modified marine radar to detect migrating raptors. This cutting-edge technology was developed by Dr. Sidney Gauthreaux, a past chairman of the Center’s board of directors, at Clemson University.
“We are pleased to continue our partnership with the Center for Birds of Prey,” said Keith Windle, General Manager for Dominion Energy Carolina Gas Transmission. “Through this partnership, low country students will have an opportunity to learn and engage in STEM education through memorable hands-on experiences.”
The Center for Birds of Prey is located on Highway 17 North, just 16 miles north of Charleston in Awendaw. Open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, visitors enjoy expertly guided walking tours and flight demonstration featuring an exciting array of falcons, hawks, owls and other birds of prey. Admission to the center is $15 for adults, $10 for youth (ages 6-17) and free for children younger than six.
