Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
From the second story bird observatory at the new visitor’s center, the marshes of Maryland sprawl out like a clean artist’s canvas. Watch for just a few minutes, and the birds will start to paint a scene that would make the most successful painter envious. In winter, Bald Eagles perch on the ice or snags near the water. Great flocks of Snow and Canada Geese spill in from all sides. Look carefully, and a Greater White-fronted or Ross’s Goose may appear. It’s a whirlwind of activity, and thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Wild Birds Unlimited Pathways To Nature Conservation Fund, this unique observatory is better than ever for birders.

This grant to the Blackwater Refuge helps commemorate the 100th anniversary of the National Wildlife Refuge System, celebrated in 2004. Funds will be used to help outfit the outdoor observation deck, the indoor, glass-walled viewing room (especially desirable for winter waterfowl-watching!), and other features that will make the observatory a favorite for birders.

The Blackwater Refuge helps protect more that 26,000 acres of valuable marshes, fields, and forests. Be sure to take the driving tour for close access to waterfowl and eagle viewing areas, and to catch a glimpse of the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel.

For more information: www.friendsofblackwater.org ; http://blackwater.fws.gov/

The Pathways To Nature Conservation Fund (http://www.pathwaystonature.com) is a partnership between Wild Birds Unlimited stores and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (www.nfwf.org) to fund environmental education and wildlife viewing projects. We encourage all of our customers to visit these incredible places. Your patronage helped make these projects possible!

 

This is a Pathways To Nature® Travel Log