The R/V Georgia Bulldog and her crew kept busy during this year’s Darien Blessing of the Fleet festival. Over 1,500 festival goers came aboard the research vessel on the first full day of the event. Marty Higgins, Truck McIver, Lisa Gentit and Bryan Fluech educated guests about shrimping in Georgia and UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s efforts to support the industry.

Guests were able to tour the ship’s deck and wheelhouse and had the opportunity to view models of shrimp nets and turtle excluder devices. Plenty of resources were also on hand for guests to take with them to learn more about the shrimping industry and how to be a better coastal steward. The R/V Georgia Bulldog and its crew were also fortunate to participate in the 48th annual blessing of Darien’s shrimp fleet that took place on the last day of the event.