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Nearby Parks:
Elk Neck State Park
Elk Neck State Forest
Susquehanna State Park
Palmer State Park
Gunpowder State Park
Fair Hill State Natural Resources Management Area
Walter S Carpenter State Park
White Clay Creek State Park
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| National Park Overview: |
 | Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge is a small island less than 1.5 acres in size located at the mouth of the Susquehanna River in Harford County, Maryland. It is a satellite Refuge managed by Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. In the 1920's, the island was used as a fish hatchery to produce such species as shad.
In the early 1940's, 13,363 acres of water in the Upper Chesapeake Bay were closed by Presidential Proclamations to the hunting of migratory waterfowl. These water areas were designated as the Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge. At the time of its establishment, the water areas known as the Susquehanna flats were covered with wild celery, pond weeds, redhead grass and other desirable waterfowl foods. Peak waterfowl population numbers included over 500,000 canvasback and redhead ducks and over 200,000 American wigeon. These rich areas of aquatic growth began declining in the 1960's due to changes in the water quality and quantity.
Development above the Conowingo Dam caused more rapid drainage and greater water flow through the dam. Currents in the upper Chesapeake Bay deposited heavy loads of silt in the Susquehanna flats area. What remained of the suitable waterfowl vegetation was destroyed when Hurricane Agnes moved through in 1972. Today, only a few thousand geese may be found around the refuge during the winter months.
Because of the dramatic decrease in waterfowl numbers and vegetation in the area, the Presidential Proclamations were lifted on September 1, 1978 and the waters were returned to the State of Maryland. Battery Island remains a part of the National Wildlife Refuge System. |
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| Area Activities |
| Horseback Riding | |  | Old Forge Hill Farm - Street, MD
We are family owned and operated and offer a beautiful, relaxed family oriented atmosphere. Emphasizing personalized attention and individualized quality care for all, we are proud to say that our farm offers something for everyone.
Web Site: http://oldforgehillfarm.tripod.com/ |
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| Area Accommodations |
|  | Brampton Inn - Chestertown, MD
1860 National Register Plantation House sitting on 35 parklike acres. 12 spacious guestrooms, wood-burning fireplaces, all w/private baths most w/whirlpools. Full breakfast included in rate.
Price Range: $195 - $435
Web Site: http://www.bramptoninn.com |
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| | B&Bs / Inns | | Elk Forge B&B Inn, Retreat and Day Spa - Located on five wooded acres, this historical colonial Manor House is your perfect romantic getaway. Elk Forge offers in-house spa services as well as access to a large selection of area activities. | | Brampton Inn - 1860 Plantation House listed on National Register of Historic Places sitting on 35 parklike acres. 10 spacious guestrooms, wood burning fireplaces, all w/private baths most w/whirlpools. Full breakfas |
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...vacation cabin, weekend getaway, log cabin rental, romantic cottage, vacation home, resort, hotel, motel, bed and breakfast, country inn, campground, RV park, horseback riding stable, canoe livery, river rafting, outfitting, sporting goods store, guide service, RV rental, etc read more.... |
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| Related Links: |
| Area Campgrounds | | | | Area Fishing Related Businesses | | Herb's Tackle Shop
203 S Main St
North East, MD
(410) 287-5490
| Ann's Sporting Goods
2519 Shuresville Rd
Darlington, MD
(410) 457-5182
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