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 Bush Mill Stream Natural Area Preserve - Virginia Posted by:  Lookn 4 It
N 37° 52.207 W 076° 26.991
18S E 372479 N 4192395
An often overlooked natural area great for observing nature
Waymark Code: WMXAV8
Location: Virginia, United States
Date Posted: 12/18/2017
Views: 6
At the mouth of Bush Mill Stream freshwater meets the saltwater of the Great Wicomico River. Fresh to brackish tidal marshes and mud flats are hidden between the steep-sided forested shores of this upper Coastal Plain stream. The quiet waters are home and resting area for an abundance of waterfowl and wading birds, including colonial nesting birds and raptors. At all times of the year, but particularly when parents are feeding their young, the marshes and adjacent tidal mud flats attract large numbers of great blue herons.
This remote reach of stream and river is an excellent example of a habitat that once was abundant in the Chesapeake Bay drainage. Several ancient oaks and large mountain laurel remain in the mostly second-growth forest of this preserve.
Estimated size of the public land (in regional measurement standard: hectares, acres, kms, etc.): 103 Acres
Is there a trail system?: Yes
If there is a trail system, please describe length, terrain, etc.:
There are two trails; The Deep Landing Trail 0.7M and the Heron Loop Trail 0.2M. The Blue Blazed Deep Landing trail is an out and back. The OrNGE Blazed Heron Loop trail branches off the Deep Landing Trail.
Both trails traverse moderately even terrain.
What points of interest are there?:
.03M from the parking area is an observation deck on the Heron trail overlooking the marsh and stream headwaters. This is good place to observe herons and migrating water fowl. .05M from the parking lot is boardwalk which provides a great view of the marsh area and is a good birding spot.
What activities are available?:
Hiking, Birding, Flora observation.
Hours of accessibility?: Dawn to Dusk
List of known hazards (cliffs, snakes, poison plants, etc.):
There are snakes and skunks in the area.
Dogs Allowed?: Yes
Is a permit/fee required?: No
Please supply the website of the land if available: [Web Link]
If a permit/fee is required please describe in detail how to get one, how much, etc.: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
Visitors are encouraged to supply a picture of either themselves or their GPS at the trailhead and/or signage of the public access lands - describe your experience there and what you saw - tell us why other folks should come visit!
Recent Visits/Logs:
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