For the past two years, Black in Marine Science (BIMS) has been working alongside the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation to uncover the stories written in the waters of Elktonia Beach. Through their Bringing eDNA to the Streets initiative, BIMS scientists and science communicators have been blending cutting-edge environmental DNA (eDNA) research with place-based storytelling — connecting science to culture, people, and memory.

By collecting water and sediment samples, BIMS and local students have been able to capture traces of life that pass through the area — bits of genetic material left behind by fish, crabs, plants, and countless other organisms. Each sample tells a story about who shares this place with us, offering a snapshot of biodiversity without ever disturbing the ecosystem.

Now, BIMS is expanding this work to Carr’s Beach, in collaboration with the Resilience Authority, to explore how life along the shoreline changes during and after restoration efforts. Once again, community members and students will take part in collecting and interpreting eDNA samples — helping to shape a living record of the Bay’s recovery.

All of the findings are open to the public through the eDNA Explorer project page. These stories will come to life at the water’s edge through interpretive signage and the Placetelling virtual exhibit. Together, these installations will invite visitors to see the invisible threads that connect people, history, and nature in the Chesapeake.