Blackwater NWR Visitor Center Wildlife Observatory Project
The Blackwater Observatory, located on the second story of the Visitor Center includes an outdoor observation deck, and indoor glass-walled viewing room, interpretive displays, identification guides and spotting scopes. The Observatory is handicapped accessible and allows equal access for wildlife viewing for all visitors.
$100,000 plus $100,000 in local matching funds.
This refuge manages habitat for over 500 species of wildlife, including 21 federal and state listed threatened and endangered species, which is more than any other National Wildlife Refuge in the United States.
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 or http://blackwater.fws.gov/
The Pathways To Nature Conservation Fund is a partnership between Wild Birds Unlimited stores and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation 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!
