Get outside for National Wildlife Refuge Week, Oct 13-19. Visit the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

The Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge is celebrating National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 13-19, with a number of free events and activities. The event hopes to attract regular visitors as well as people who have never been; the organization wants everyone to revel in the beauty, importance, and vastness of the refuge.

“The activities will include pontoon boat rides, kayak paddles, a special birdwatching competition, dedication of a wildlife mural, and a visit to an iconic site not usually open to the public.” (Source: press release, at end of post)

The Refuge will open its Fones Cliff unit to the public for the day on Sunday, October 13th. This historic site, known as Matchopick for the Native American village that was located nearby, is where Captain John Smith encountered the Rappahannock Tribe in 1608. It sits atop 100-foot cliffs overlooking the River and Beverly Marsh and hosts the largest eagle population on the East coast. The unit is not yet regularly open to the public.

Also on October 13th, the Refuge will participate in the “The Big Sit,” an annual global birdwatching competition to document as many bird species as possible from inside a 17ft circle. The Refuge will set up its circle on the top of the cliffs at Matchopick. There should be great views of migrating songbirds, waterfowl, and eagles. No experience is necessary to participate, and skilled birders will be on hand to help identify the birds. The birdwatching takes place between 8:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. but visitors may come and go as they like. The Refuge will have optical equipment available.

The value of wildlife refuges

According to Bipartisan Resolution Honors National Wildlife Refuge Week,

The Refuge System not only plays a crucial role in conserving wildlife and habitat but also supports local economies. Each year, refuges generate more than $3.2 billion for local economies and support over 41,000 jobs. The resolution recognizes these contributions, as well as the importance of fostering inclusive outdoor recreation and conservation education across communities through the Urban Wildlife Conservation Program.

Press release