Let Us Build On Our Knowledge.

There is a growing need for understanding and proactivity. The Barrier Island Study Center will lead the way in ensuring sustainable living for all inhabitants, including humans, on Bald Head Island and all barrier islands.

Why Bald Head Island And Why Now?

Eighty-five percent of the East and Gulf coasts depend on barrier islands to buffer the mainland from the waves and winds of storms. These vital ecosystems have already begun to weaken, break up and disappear--a process that is irreversible.

Bald Head Island is geographically in the middle of the Eastern Seaboard and possesses a very unique diversity of intact ecosystems--including dune, beach, estuarine, salt marsh, maritime forest, maritime shrub and freshwater aquifer.

The Smith Island Complex (which includes Bald Head, Middle and Bluff islands) is singled out within the scientific community not only for its biodiversity, but also for the support and leadership of its human inhabitants.

The knowledge and understanding gained from the research conducted at the Barrier Island Study Center will certainly benefit Bald Head Island’s residents by protecting their property and the island they love, but it will also be shared with scientists and municipalities around the world, furthering the BHI Conservancy's already established role as a leader in conservation.

Through significant educational outreach programs, the Barrier Island Study Center will teach the next generations about stewardship--of their homes, their environment and the world.