Wonders of the Water: Discover the Creatures of Martha’s Vineyard

BY CAROLINE CARDOSO

Martha’s Vineyard is the place to be during the summer. Ever since I was a little girl I have been coming up to my grandparents’ house. Rain or shine, it will always be a perfect day on the Vineyard Sound, walking the shoreline collecting shells and more. But, have you ever thought about where the shells come from? Or how they got there? If you’re looking for an educational–and fun–way to learn more about the creatures you see on the shore and in the water Saturdays on Senge is the place to be. From mollusks to beach grass, Saturdays on Senge educates adults and children of all ages–4 and up–welcoming them to the wonders of Sengekontacket Pond.

Sponsored by Friends of Sengekontacket, this program invites the Island to the pond in Little Bridge located in Oak Bluffs. I thought about going to see what all the hype was about, and found myself exploring the beaches. Little did I know how much I was actually going to learn! The outgoing, cheerful advisers introduced me to a whole new side of the island and some of it’s creatures that I never knew. I use to walk around the beaches of the vineyard never knowing what kind of shells I was picking up; I just thought they looked pretty! Now I can say I know what a slider shell is and how a pearl is actually formed.

I just recently heard about this nonprofit organization and it’s program. Starting early in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds, the group gathers to discover exciting observations of the Sengekontacket Pond and the creatures among it. A small gathering forms around a speaker and her shells to discuss the history and function behind the topic of the day; today’s topic was mollusks. After a brief introduction of the shellfish, we all went into the water and scoped the beach for more island sea life to learn about.

After learning some fun facts about razor clams and the formation of pearls in oysters, I think I’ll join the Friends of Sengekontacket for another insightful observation of the pond; next week’s topic is native beach grasses! Don’t forget; free shaved iced will be given out after the exploration!

Saturdays on Senge: Every Saturday in July through August from 9:30 am to 10:30 am in Little Bridge, Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard (Sengekontacket Pond), be perpared with water shoes and a good eye!