Pool One at Wildlife Drive

Pool One at Wildlife Drive. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. The area before you is a moist soil impoundment constructed in 1936 known as “Pool 1.” This 50-acre wetland was improved and enlarged in 2008 by a partnership that include Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, the family of Gibby Roe, Ducks Unlimited, the Waterfowl Festival, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Eastern Shore Research, Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council, and the Friends of Blackwater., Depending on the time of the year, this entire area may be quite dry or completely underwater! Naturally occurring wetlands often function this way, holding water in the winter and spring months, when most of the annual rain occurs, and gradually drying up in the early summer. This wet-dry cycle allows for the production of important types of native vegetation that provide food and cover for wildlife all year long. In addition, many species of wildlife, particular ducks, shorebirds, and amphibians, are naturally adapted to the annual cycle., There are many similar impoundments across the Refuge, but Pool 1 is the most productive. The Refuge manages each impoundment a little differently to provide diverse wetland conditions that beneath a variety of wildlife species. These projects are especially important in this region, where wetland losses occur due to natural and human factors. Strong partnerships like the one that supported this project are the “next generation” of wildlife conservation., (Inscription under the birds in the lower portion) , American Black Duck, Great Egret, Northern Pintail) You might catch a glimpse of one of these creatures when visiting Pool 1. Photography courtesy of Larry Hutchens.