|
The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge protects critical coastal wetlands in 10 units from Cape Elizabeth in Cumberland County to Kittery in York County, at the southern tip of Maine.
The refuge provides critical migration and wintering habitat for waterfowl and other migratory birds. More than 280 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians have been observed on the refuge.
The one-mile accessible, self-guided Carson Trail begins near the refuge headquarters off Route 9 in Wells. It is open every day from dawn until dusk. Pets must be leashed at all times. Bicycles are prohibited on the trail.
Visitors to the refuge can enjoy fishing, wildlife observation, photography, interpretation, environmental education programs, and hunting (permit required) in designated areas.
The refuge will contain approximately 7,600 acres when land acquisition is complete.
The refuge is named after Rachel Carson, a world-renowned marine biologist, author and environmentalist. She served as an aquatic biologist and as editor-in-chief for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. During her tenure, she composed a series of articles on Atlantic Coast wildlife refuges.
Rachel Carson was born in Pennsylvania in 1907. Though the mystery of the sea and its creatures captivated her at an early age, the Maine coast particularly inspired her. Beginning in 1952, she summered on Southport Island, where she studied its beach and tide pools to research her book, "The Edge of the Sea," published in 1955.
Through tireless investigation for her greatest work, "Silent Spring," she linked the unrestrained use of post-World War II chemical pesticides with fearsome, biological consequences. Overcoming industry and government pressure to abandon her research, she persevered.
Carson simply and convincingly explained the connections between humans and all creatures of the Earth. She alerted generations to use chemicals with utmost caution, warning that their improper use has dreadful effects on public health and the environment.
The refuge's headquarters is open from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. weekdays, and limited hours on weekends in the summer.
Outdoor Activities |
