Fannie Stebbins Refuge - Longmeadow, MA - U.S. National Natural Landmarks on Waymarking.com

The Fannie Stebbins Refuge consists of 505 acres of land along the Connecticut River floodplain. It was designated a U.S. National Natural Landmark in 1972. The area contains a variety of habitats ranging from mature mixed-hardwood forest, scattered ponds, wetland swamps populated by trees and shrubs, marshes in various stages of progression to bogs, and open meadow. A wide variety of birds, both migratory and breeding, is supported by the diverse habitat of this floodplain. This area provides key habitat for the Endangered Riverine Clubtail dragonfly, Spotted Turtles, rare wetlands birds such as the Common Moorhen and American Bittern and several rare plant species such as: Many-Fruited False Loosestrife, Narrow-Leaved Spring Beauty, Winged Monkey-Flower, and Swamp Dock.

An extensive trail network criss-crosses the refuge. In spring or after heavy rains many of the paths are flooded. Paved Pondside Road runs north-south along length of the refuge allowing for auto access and ample parking on the eastern part of the refuge. The refuge is popular with hikers, bicyclist, joggers, birders, photographers, and fishermen.

The Fannie Stebbins Wildlife Refuge, Inc., a non-profit, educational organization owns approximately 330 acres and the Town of Longmeadow owns much of the rest of the refuge and adjacent conservation land. Access is via Bark Haul Road, off Route 5, from the south or Emerson Road, off Route 5, from the north.

Predominate Feature: wetlands Parking/Access Location: N 42° 02.181 W 072° 35.547 Ownership: Private - Open Access Terrain Rating: Admission Charged: no Landmark's Website: [Web Link]

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Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log User Rating   02/01/2014 Freddie's Pack visited it