Conowingo Fisherman’s Park holds a top spot in the US for viewing bald eagles. Eagles can be found year-round here, but during the winter months, their numbers soar. Eagles dot the trees and soar over the rapids, watching for shad, herring, and eels to bob up to the water’s surface, stunned by the dam’s turbines. Their numbers range in the hundreds, with birds migrating here from Canada and New York. In addition to the easy feeding opportunities, the eagles are drawn to the dam’s trailrace, which remains unfrozen in the winter. Several nests are located in the park and on the island near the center of the river.
While known for eagles, this area is also popular for overwintering cormorants, various other waterfowl, woodpeckers, winter wren, and peregrine falcon. We will begin our trip with plenty of time to watch from the dam overview areas, then we will continue down the Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenway Trail for about three to four miles, out and back. The trail follows the river along a rail bed, an abandoned line that allowed the Susquehanna Power Company to transport heavy equipment to the dam from the B&O Railroad in Havre de Grace during its construction. The trail is wide and flat.
Eagles are the main attraction here, but the Conowingo Dam is impressive to view as well. Conowingo is listed as Maryland’s largest renewable energy source since its operation began in 1928. Owned and operated by Constellation Energy, the dam has 11 turbines, which can produce up to 572 megawatts of electricity, enough power to supply 165,000 homes under normal operating conditions.
Our trip leaders are Dave Webb and Dr. Dennis Kirkwood. Dave is an editor with Maryland Biodiversity Project which is a non-profit organization dedicated to cataloging the flora and fauna of Maryland. The project promotes conservation, science, and education by building a nature study community. Check out the project here: https://www.marylandbiodiversity.com/. Dave also edits BugGuide.net, vetting the identifications of arthropods photographed by other outdoor enthusiasts, including his photos. Dr. Kirkwood is the past president of the Harford County Bird Club and a member of several environmental associations. He and his wife Jean have conducted birding trips throughout the New World tropics and within the United States.
Participants may choose to hike a shorter distance and are welcome to walk back on their own at any point.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email a few days before the date.
- Children over the age of 10 are welcome.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, and your camera with accessories. Any size cameras are welcome, but no tripods, please.
- Bring binoculars if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
Registration
Levels:- NHSM Member: $20
- Non Member: $25
- Child over 10: $10
Location
Darlington, Fisherman's Park, Maryland