Once upon a time, three islands floated in the Chesapeake Bay to the east of Baltimore. While looking like tiny scraps of land to most people, others saw potential. Thirty years and 90 million cubic yards of material later, Hart-Miller Island was born. The Army Corps of Engineers and Maryland Department of Natural Resources rebuilt the 1,100-acre island to safely dispose of dredging material while adding habitat for bay birds and wildlife. Join us for a morning boat and bus tour of the island, offered through Maryland Environmental Service. As an important habitat for migrating shorebirds, nesting terns, and grassland-nesting songbirds, the site was developed with upland grassland and wetlands that flow into an extensive pool. A one-acre nesting island was constructed after a Maryland Ornithological Society survey was completed. We will be on the lookout for birds while on the bus and at all stops.
Bring a picnic lunch to eat near the beach at our last stop on the bus tour, Hart-Miller Island State Park. Snow cones and cold drinks are available for purchase at their small store. Cash only. No credit cards are accepted.
Please note that while this tour is offered for free from MES, we appreciate your donation to cover our costs in offering this program.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, participants need to be able to board a boat with assistance, climb stairs, and hike .5 miles on a gravel road.
- The exact meeting location will be listed in your confirmation email after payment has been received.
- Note that the dock location has been changed from last year. See the address in your registration confirmation email.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, sunblock, tick and insect spray.
- Bring your camera and accessories.
- Bring binoculars.
- Bring your guidebooks.
- No pets, please.
Please note that while this tour is offered for free from MES, please consider donating to cover our costs in offering this program.
NEW – 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 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.
