The sculpture is funded by the Marine Debris Program and is part of the NERR’s efforts to raise awareness about the issue of marine debris through art. The metal wire red drum sculpture stands ~6 feet tall and 5 feet long and was crafted to be filled with marine debris. As part of Estuaries Week, the NERR held a clean-up event and the debris found on the property was used to fill the sculpture. Marine debris items such as plastic bottles, beach toys, and crabbing buoys were collected and place inside the red drum by community members.    

 The red drum is one of two sculptures commissioned by the NERR.  When completed, the second sculpture, a white shrimp, will be displayed at East Bay Park in Georgetown, South Carolina. This park is a popular boat landing, as well as a bustling recreational complex, making it an excellent venue for engaging a wide audience on issues associated with marine debris. Each sculpture will include an educational display along with pledge cards. The cards include commitments to “not litter”, “bring my own bottle”, “bring my own bag”, “refuse straws”, and more. Visitors can take a selfie with the sculpture and a pledge card and post their photos on the North Inlet-Winyah Bay Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram pages using the #trashfreeniwb tag.  

 Next time you’re in Georgetown, South Carolina, stop by and take your pledge!

 For additional information, please contact: Sarah.Latshaw@noaa.gov.

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