All research projects in the North Inlet Estuary and on the Hobcaw Barony property must be approved by the Baruch Institute and the Belle W. Baruch Foundation prior to initiating the project.

The required Research Proposal Form can can be obtained from the Baruch Foundation webpage.

Completed Research Proposal Forms, along with general inquiries concerning research on site, should be directed to the NIWB NERR Research Coordinator (bruce@baruch.sc.edu).

Once approved, advance reservations are required to do any field work on the Hobcaw Barony property. This includes both overnight and day visits. Use of facilities and/or research resources may require fees (see Rates, below).

• USC Faculty, staff, and students:  Prior submission of a trip request form is required travel to and use of the marine field facilities and/or habitats, no matter the length of the trip or whether any charges will be incurred. Trip requests forms can be obtained via email from the Baruch Front office at reservations@baruch.sc.edu.
• External (non-USC) researchers: Please contact the Baruch Front Office at reservations@baruch.sc.edu with inquiries and questions. 

Fees are charged for lodging, boats, vehicles, facility space, and some services [PDF]. There is no charge for orientation to the site and programs.

Posted rates are subject to change; please confirm rates when making reservation.

Collecting and/or activities that the public normally would not be allowed to do require a permit from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR, Charleston, 803-795-6350). Contact SCDNR well in advance of your trip to secure any needed permits.