The WTS GNO Chapter recently partnered with Baker Marine Services for a unique and engaging tour of Southeastern Louisiana University’s Turtle Cove Environmental Research Station, offering members a firsthand look at Louisiana’s dynamic and rapidly changing coastal wetlands.

Located within the Manchac Wildlife Management Area along Pass Manchac, Turtle Cove serves as a field-based research and education facility focused on understanding the complex wetland ecosystems that connect Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas.

Turtle Cove was originally constructed in 1908 as a hunting and fishing lodge, Turtle Cove has evolved into a hub for environmental research, education, and outreach. Today, Southeastern Louisiana University operates the station to support interdisciplinary research and hands-on learning related to coastal ecology and restoration. 

The station’s location provides a rare opportunity to study a range of wetland environment, from freshwater swamps to intermediate and brackish marshes, all within a short distance. This diversity allows researchers and visitors alike to better understand how Louisiana’s coast functions as a connected system and how it responds to environmental stressors such as subsidence, sea-level rise, and storm impacts.

Turtle Cove’s mission focuses on advancing knowledge of Louisiana’s coastal wetlands through research, education, and public outreach, helping to raise awareness about the importance of these ecosystems to the region’s resilience and economy. 

During the tour, WTS GNO members had the opportunity to explore the wetlands and observe the region’s natural features up close. The experience highlighted the ecological significance of Louisiana’s coastal systems, including habitat for wildlife, storm protection, and water quality improvements.

Participants also gained insight into:

• Wetland vegetation and habitat types unique to Southeast Louisiana
• Ongoing coastal land loss and restoration efforts
• The role of research and monitoring in informing sustainable solutions
• The importance of preserving these environments for future generations

This hands-on experience reinforced the direct connection between transportation infrastructure, coastal resilience, and environmental stewardship.