NEWS FROM THE DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
July 17, 2009
Vol. 39, No. 306
For more information, contact Jennifer Holmes, Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve, Division of Soil and Water Conservation, 302-739-3436; or Melanie Rapp, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.
Explore Delaware’s wildlife habitats this summer at free programs
offered by the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve
Nature enthusiasts of all ages are invited to explore Delaware’s natural beauty and wildlife habitats at free programs offered by the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve. The programs will be held at the St. Jones Reserve, 818 Kitts Hummock Road (east of the John Dickinson Plantation) near Dover or at the Blackbird Creek Reserve, 801 Blackbird Landing Road near Townsend. Space is limited, so registration is required. For information, directions and registration, call 302-739-3436, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Canoe the St. Jones River Monday, July 27 12 noon – 2 p.m.
Join a biologist and journey the St. Jones River by canoe to observe the various habitats and wildlife of this fascinating ecosystem. Please wear comfortable clothing. Life jackets will be provided and are required to be worn. Canoeing experience is recommended. Participants must be at least 16 years of age to paddle. The trip will meet at Scotton Landing off of Irish Hill Road in Dover. Space is limited.
Whose Scat Is That? Friday, August 7 2 – 3 p.m.
Become a nature sleuth and learn more about how wildlife biologists gather clues and evidence about animal behavior as they examine animal scat, tracks and other signs that animals leave behind. Meet at the St. Jones Reserve. Open to all ages.
Boat Trip on the St. Jones River Monday, August 24 12 noon – 2 p.m.
Discover the history of the St. Jones River and the St. Jones sub-estuary aboard a 24-foot skiff boat. A naturalist will point out the abundant wildlife – birds, waterfowl, fish, amphibians and reptiles – that will make this expedition an adventure for all ages. The trip will meet at Scotton Landing off of Irish Hill Road in Dover. Space is limited.
Cross Country Habitat Hike along Blackbird Creek Friday, September 25 9 – 11 a.m.
Join a naturalist and hike through wooded areas, meadow habitats, and shrub areas of one of the most ecologically-pristine areas in the state. Bring your binoculars to view the beautiful birds and waterfowl that inhabit the Blackbird Creek Reserve. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Please, no strollers. The hike will meet at the Reserve, 801 Blackbird Landing Road near Townsend.
The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve is a partnership between the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The program is administered through DNREC’s Division of Soil and Water Conservation in the Delaware Coastal Programs.