Wellness

On the Water: Q&A with Tayt Stafford, Coastal Expeditions

Exploring the natural wonders of Kiawah River is a cherished activity for both residents and visitors, whether hiking on one of the many trails or fishing along the riverbank. With its diverse ecosystems, including the Kiawah River itself and the vibrant salt marshes, there’s always something spectacular to discover in our community. One unique way to engage with the environment is through a Coastal Expeditions eco-tour, led by knowledgeable and passionate guides who are dedicated to fostering environmental awareness and appreciation.

To gain expert insight into the eco-tours and ecosystem of Kiawah River, there is no one more familiar than Tayt Stafford, senior guide at Coastal Expeditions (pictured in top photo on right). With years of experience and a deep passion for nature, Stafford provides enriching tours that highlight the importance of preserving our environment.

With the recent opening of Coastal Expeditions’ new outfitter at Kiawah River, we sat down with Stafford to learn more about his journey, his role at Coastal Expeditions and what makes Kiawah River such a special destination for eco-tours.

Can you share your journey and experience that led you to work at Coastal Expeditions?
I grew up in the Sandhills of North Carolina and have always been interested in nature. I graduated from NC State University with a degree in biological oceanography and have experience working as a naturalist for a North Carolina state park. I most recently worked at a scientific field station in the Bahamas, and I’ve now been a naturalist with Coastal Expeditions for about four years. Coastal Expeditions is a fantastic organization where I can exude my passion for nature and show others the importance of being conscious of the environment.

What is your role at Coastal Expeditions and what are your main responsibilities?
I am a senior guide at Coastal Expeditions and run most of the trips, whether as a kayak guide on full-day excursions or a naturalist mate on the boat for activities ranging from birding to shark teeth excursions. I also manage the fleet of kayaks at multiple facilities, overseeing allocation and maintenance. Additionally, I am the go-to person for all naturalist guides if they have questions about daily operations.

What do you think makes Kiawah River a unique destination for eco-tours?
Kiawah River is an incredible example of the Lowcountry. This ecosystem is home to certain life that only exists in the southeastern United States and is situated on an extremely productive chunk of salt marsh ecosystem. This place falls in an important zone along the Atlantic Flyway and is a great place to see birds that migrate during multiple seasons. Some of the birds seen here throughout the year migrate from places like Argentina, stopping at Kiawah River to feed before finishing their migration to the Arctic Circle to breed. This is a wildlife paradise, and Coastal Expeditions’ goal is to ensure everyone leaves with a new understanding of nature and how to observe their surroundings.

What are the most interesting wildlife sightings you’ve had while guiding tours at Kiawah River?
Right at the start of one of my expeditions, dolphins were feeding to the left and an alligator to the right. As that was happening, a painted bunting flew over my head followed by five spoonbills above. It was truly like winning the lottery when it comes to Lowcountry wildlife sightings all at once.

Can you explain the importance of eco-tourism and how Coastal Expeditions promotes environmental awareness?
As industrialism and development continue to grow, environmental awareness is crucial in helping preserve fragile ecosystems. Coastal Expeditions specifically is foundation forward, where money paid for excursions goes directly to our foundation, which works with organizations to conserve animals like shorebirds, seabirds and loggerhead sea turtles. It is Coastal Expeditions’ main goal to ensure everyone leaves with knowledge they may not have had before about the importance of wildlife preservation and how to observe the ecosystem around them from a naturalist’s perspective. There is no better way to learn about nature and its importance than to put yourself right out there in it and that’s what Coastal Expeditions helps people do.

What advice would you give to someone considering a guided tour with Coastal Expeditions for the first time?
I advise making sure to ask questions and stay engaged. Make your mind available to be molded and listen to the stories told by naturalists. Come with no expectations other than to have a great time.

What are you most excited for about the opening of The Landing, Coastal Expeditions’ new outfitter at Kiawah River?
I am very excited to be a part of this project and to curate specialty trips that have never been done before. Kiawah River has so much potential for high-class naturalist-led excursions, and the possibilities are endless. I can’t wait to be a part of the community and to grow together from within.