Road Scholar Program # 6619

Small-town hospitality, Native American artifacts, wild ponies and more await you in one of the most dynamic settings on Virginia's Eastern Shore. Experience Chincoteague and Assateague islands as MSC ecologists help you explore their rapidly changing coastal ecology through collection and experimentation aboard a working research vessel. Immerse yourself in the beauty of untouched ecosystems while learning from local experts during daily field trips and lectures. Personally interact with local artists, watermen and carvers while exploring the maritime history, legend and lore surrounding the islands' famous wild ponies. Enjoy the appeal of this quaint seafaring town, and learn about the diverse inhabitants of the barrier island ecosystems.

Day 1

3:00 - 5:00 pm Check in with Road Scholar Coordinator at MSC
5:00 - 5:45 pm Group welcome and schedule overview
6:00 - 7:00 pm Dinner in MSC's Cafeteria
7:30 - 9:00 pm Evening speaker *

Day 2
7:30 - 8:30 am Breakfast
8:45 - 12:00 pm Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge speaker
  Visit the Herbert Bateman Visitor Center
12:00 - 1:00 pm Lunch on Chincoteague Island
1:00 - 4:00 pm Pony Hunt
  Driving tour of Chincoteague Island
6:00 - 7:00 pm Dinner in MSC's Cafeteria
7:30 - 9:00 pm Evening speaker *

Day 3
7:30 - 8:30 am Breakfast
9:00 - 12:00 pm Oceanographic research cruise on MSC vessels
12:00 - 1:00 pm Lunch
1:00 - 4:00 pm Afternoon speaker *
6:00 - 7:00 pm Dinner at a Local Restaurant
7:30 - 9:00 pm Evening speaker *

Day 4
7:30 - 8:30 am Breakfast
9:00 - 10:30 am Morning Speaker*
  11:00 am Check out
12:00 - 1:00 pm Lunch