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Sponsor: Eastern Shore Chapter
Leader: Sean Sipple
Location: Millington WMA. Directions will be sent to all who register.
Description: In this field trip, we will visit one of the Eastern Shore’s most fascinating and least understood wetland systems: the Delmarva Bays. These wetlands support an extraordinary suite of plants and animals, including several rare and state‑listed species. With luck, we may encounter the state‑endangered Featherfoil (Hottonia inflata) in bloom — one of the signature species of these seasonal ponds. Often called vernal pools because of their seasonality, Delmarva Bays are actually geologically unique landforms with an ecological richness all their own. Delmarva Bays are also among the most threatened wetland types on the Coastal Plain due to historical drainage and land conversion, making them an important conservation priority.
Our trip will take place at Millington Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in eastern Kent County. Managed by Maryland’s Wildlife and Heritage Service, Millington’s 4,000 acres include hardwood forests, pine stands, meadows, fallow fields, agricultural plantings, forested bottomlands, and a number of Delmarva Bays. We’ll explore spring flora across multiple habitat types and document the diversity we encounter along the way.
Notes for Participants: Be prepared for uneven ground, off‑trail walking, and potentially muddy conditions depending on recent weather. Much of our time will be spent moving through woods and meadows rather than on established trails. Areas might be very wet as we approach the ponds. Bring your camera or smartphone — we’ll be documenting plants, wildlife, and anything else we discover throughout the day.
For additional information: Contact Cristina Niciporciukas eschapter@mdflora.org
ONLINE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Limited to 16 people. Registration through April 20 for members only, open to non-members afterwards. Directions will be included in registration confirmation.
Bring: Please bring food and beverage for snack. Restroom facilities are non-existent. While still early in the season, ticks and chiggers are always present, so please practice precautionary measures. Wear hat and weather appropriate clothing. Waterproof boots a must as terrain might be really wet as we get close to the pond areas.
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©Maryland Native Plant Society PO Box 4877, Silver Spring, MD 20914MNPS is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization incorporated in Maryland.
