CAMBRIDGE, Md. - Imagine Hawk Mountain Sanctuary without the mountain.
Well, there is no need to create a mind picture of such a place since it can be found just a few hours away on Maryland's historic Eastern Shore in Dorchester County. That place is Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, which was established in 1933 as a waterfowl sanctuary for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway.
Depending upon the time of year one visits, the landscape can be rich and lush or barren and foreboding. Either way, the potential of seeing unforgettable views of wildlife or taking a keepsake photograph is no farther away than the next bend of the road on Wildlife Drive.
Dorchester County has long been a destination for local hunters to pursue sika and whitetail deer and waterfowl, and also for the festivals that are held throughout the year, many of which focus on all aspects of waterfowling. In addition, there are some unique fishing opportunities to be had, but Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is an attraction that stands on its own merits and is worth planning a specific trip to visit.
Encompassing more than 27,000 acres, it is comprised of freshwater impoundments, brackish tidal wetlands, field and mixed evergreen and hardwood forests. Those passing through the refuge, located 12 miles south of Cambridge on the way to hunting or fishing destinations, get an ever-so-small sampling of the attractions that are part of the National Wildlife Refuge System that is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
Blackwater Refuge is fed by the Blackwater River and Little Blackwater River, with the name "blackwater" coming from the tea-colored waters of the local rivers. Their darkened color is the result of tannin that stains the waters as they drain through peat and marsh soil.
Before departing the visitor center to begin touring Blackwater Refuge, it adds to the experience by first viewing the various wildlife exhibits that include an eagle nest and checking out the live Eagle Cam and Osprey Cam television monitors. Also on the first floor is a book and gift shop, a butterfly garden, restrooms, maps, brochures and an information kiosk.
Located on the second floor is the Wild Birds Unlimited Pathways to Nature Observatory, featuring bird exhibits and spotting scopes for viewing the Blackwater River, the marsh and the Osprey Cam platform. Also on the second floor is the Birding and Natural History Library where visitors can browse the refuge book collection to learn more about the local wildlife.
Wildlife Drive is approximately four miles in length, but at least several hours should be planned to get the most of a visit. And, when comparing it to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, it could be said that Blackwater is similar, but different.
Yes, Blackwater has its eagles and osprey, but there is so much more with mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians unlike any found at Hawk Mountain. Like Hawk Mountain, no pets are permitted on the hiking trails in order to protect the endangered Delmarva fox squirrels - one of three recovering species, including the peregrine falcon and bald eagle.
In all, Blackwater Refuge is home to more than 250 bird species, 35 species of reptiles and amphibians, 165 species of threatened and endangered plants and numerous mammals. During winter migration, Blackwater is home to approximately 35,000 geese and 15,000 ducks.
One unwanted species, which is often a target for deer hunters in Dorchester County, is the South American nutria, which was introduced to the refuge during the 1930s. Since 2002, an intensive trapping campaign has had a positive effect in curtailing its numbers.
Also of interest, especially during the ongoing 150th anniversary observance of the American Civil War, is a museum honoring the life of Harriet Tubman, whose actions helped many slaves escape to freedom via the Underground Railroad. She spent her childhood as a slave working on farms that are included within the boundary of the refuge and also worked as a timber laborer on the north side of the Blackwater River.
Tubman had family members located throughout the area, which led her to travel in the region, likely through much of the refuge. Other activities that Tubman participated in, including muskrat trapping, are still a way of life in Dorchester County, and the Tubman Trail follows many of the area's historic locations. If you go
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge visitor center is located at 2145 Key Wallace Drive, Cambridge, Maryland. Visitor center hours are: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
A daily permit is required for all visitors to the Wildlife Drive unless they possess an annual pass, lifetime passport or current Federal Waterfowl Stamp. Fees are: private vehicle, $3; pedestrian or bicyclist, $1; commercial van or bus up to a maximum of 20 passengers, $15; 21 or more passengers, $25.
For information call (410) 228-2677 or access the website at www.fws.gov/blackwater.