Together with the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, Pannier Graphics has had the pleasure of creating over 50 unique and educational interpretive exhibits for Georgia’s coastline since 2018. This year, a series of seven interpretive signs, including three interactive exhibits, were installed to introduce K-5 students to the wonders of the region’s freshwater wetland ecology.
“The exhibits promote wetland stewardship and enhance a wetland trail and boardwalk located on the property of an elementary school on St. Simons Island, Georgia. Families, educators, and students can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature by taking a walk along the wetland’s boardwalk or riding bikes along the trail. The interactive exhibits are intended to enhance the outdoor experience, both visually and educationally, by highlighting the wetland’s ecology through charming, science-based illustrations.” —Katy Smith, Water Resources Specialist, UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant
The Discovery Trail project was funded through a Coastal Incentive Grant from the Georgia Coastal Management Program. Marine Extension staff wanted a way to share the information with their community, especially children, in a way that was interesting and interactive. Freshwater wetlands are important locally as they prevent drought and flooding, and are habitats for diverse wildlife. They also protect neighborhoods from flooding and promote diversity by supporting habitats for migratory birds, insects, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and other wildlife. The UGA Marine Extension team knew they needed the best quality outdoor signs that could withstand long-term wear from weather and a group of experts who could bring their vision to life.
“When I sought to incorporate interactive elements to engage young outdoor explorers, the sales staff shared ideas and examples, and ultimately, the Pannier team helped us achieve our goals with the storybook signs. I was impressed with everything from the initial customer service I received, to the organization, response, and professionalism of Pannier’s staff throughout the project.” —Katy Smith, Water Resources Specialist, UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant
Pannier’s team members joined forces to creatively engineer flipbook pages using hardware and durable Fiberglass Embedded panels. The flipbooks on these interactive exhibits help share more information in an engaging, fun way so that children are more involved as they learn about the fascinating habitats. The panels were installed on Single and Double Pedestal exhibit bases, as well as a Rail Mounted base.
“This collaboration with a talented, young artist, colleagues, educators and students in our community, and Pannier’s staff was a very rewarding experience for me. Everyone is thrilled with how the wetland storybook signs turned out. We are now looking forward to capturing feedback from students, parents, teachers, and other community members who visit the wetland and encounter the signs in the months and years to come.” —Katy Smith, Water Resources Specialist, UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant
For more information on Pannier Graphics’ outdoor interpretive signs, panels, exhibit bases, and frames, browse our website or fill out a contact form. We look forward to an opportunity to help you with your next signage project.
