Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to visit. It is a refuge for migratory birds, primarily ducks and geese. The refuge includes more than 24,000 acres. Blackwater Refuge is one of the chief wintering areas for Canada geese using the Atlantic flyway. It provides protection, food and cover for wildlife through specific land and water management programs.

A daily permit is required for all visitors to the wildlife drive unless they possess a pass authorizing free entrance.

The wildlife drive and associated facilities are open daily dawn to dusk. Walking and biking along the wildlife drive is permitted. The careful observer will see a variety of plants and animals along the drive.

You can pick up a self guided eagle tour map and a wildlife drive map at the visitors center. 

Over 30 bald eagle nests can be found on Blackwater Refuge and some nests have a cameral on them. You can check this out at www.friendsofblackwater.org and watch the eagles. Blackwater Refuge is located at 2145 Key Wallace Drive, Cambridge, MD 21613. 

Each time I go I see something different. This is a great place to take children.

Blessings,

The Plant Lady ~ Linda

Philadelphia Flower Show

I went to the British-themed 2013 Philadelphia Flower Show,  “Brilliant!” It was held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center March 2-10.  It spotlighted British gardens, landscapes, and London.

The scent of Roses welcomed me at the Royal palace gates which led to the shows centerpiece: a sculptural, digitally enhanced rendition of Big Ben, featuring a light and sound show every hour.

Exhibitors brought in thousands of flowers, potted-up shrubs, and many trees. Contractors constructed displays with lumber, stone work, lighting, and effects, and plumbing for fountains and waterfalls. The displays were magnificent. They celebrated Britain’s amazing landscapes and cultural icons.

I explored Britain’s culture, from the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, sunny cottage gardens to foggy London streetscapes, and the music of the Beatles.

With more than 180 vendors in the Marketplace, it was easy to find that special something.  I purchased a hat and an apron. Booths are open during Show hours. 

Proceeds from the show benefit the year-round community greening programs of PHS, including PHS City Harvest, the innovative program that provides fresh produce for more than 1,000 families in need during the growing season.

The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is the nations largest indoor flower show, which blooms every March at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The show features the country’s premier landscape designers and florists, who turn 10 acres of the Convention Center into a floral fantasy world with beautiful plants and cutting-edge designs.

I had a “Brilliant” time!

The Plant Lady ~ Linda