meeting_point: Waddell Mariculture Center
description: The Waddell Mariculture Center (WMC), located in Bluffton, SC, is a field experiment station of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). WMC is one of the largest and most sophisticated facilities for mariculture research in the country.

During this exclusive experience, a WMC staff member will guide you on a behind-the-scenes tour of the grounds, lab, hatchery and ponds. You’ll learn firsthand how the center produces estuarine and saltwater fish for research and release along the coast of SC. You’ll also learn about the importance of mariculture in protecting our shorelines.

Please note:
• Closed-toed shoes are required (no admittance to the hatchery with open-toed shoes).
• Participants must be 12 years or older.
• Since half of the tour is outside, bug spray, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and comfortable shoes are recommended. 
• While the SCDNR does not charge for this tour, the Coastal Discovery Museum collects a fee, which is donated to Friends of Waddell.