Ribbon of Sand

February 25, 2008 · PBS Television · 60 minutes
Directed by: John Grabowska
The new Cape Lookout National Seashore film takes visitors on a journey from the mainland pocosin swamps of North Carolina to its sound waters, the barrier islands of the outer banks and the ocean depths beyond. The film immerses visitors in the expansiveness of the seashore and its associated environments, and with the gentle words of Rachel Carson it invites and prods viewers to take responsibility for this national treasure. This documentary is dedicated to Rachel Carson.
Production Notes

Meryl Streep reads quotes from natural history writings about the Seashore’s coastal ecosystem, primarily drawn from the work of environmental pioneer Rachel Carson. “Rachel Carson asked us to regard the natural world with a sense of wonder,” said Streep. “Her writings about the edge of the sea are an inspiration. I hope audiences are similarly inspired by ‘Ribbon of Sand.’ Preserving the integrity of the environment directly affects each one of us.” “No one’s writing can connect us with the natural world like those of Rachel Carson,” said the film’s producer, John Grabowska. “And no one could interpret them with more empathy than Meryl Streep.” “We are thrilled and honored that Meryl Streep would lend her tremendous talents to this important and exciting project,” stated Superintendent Vogel. “’Ribbon of Sand’ promises to be a beautiful and dramatic film which captures the awe and wonder of these unique and fragile barrier islands of the southern Outer Banks of North Carolina.”