If you've read my blogs before, you know how much I enjoy an occasional trip down to Blackwater NWR on Maryland's Eastern Shore where incredible cycling is matched only by incredible habitat. Where else can you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of bald eagles, herons, snow geese, tundra swans? If ever there was a jewel in the crown of Maryland, Blackwater must be it.

So, you can see why I was more than a little shocked when I found out that just two miles north of Blackwater, a 1000 acre development is in the works. Imagine 2700 homes, hotel/conference center, golf course and retail center, all getting chummy with the Refuge.

Here are the details.

Biologists have indicated there is ample reason to be concerned about changes in water quality and impervious surfaces from the development that would have dire consequences for threatened and endangered species in the area. Runoff from this site will eventually find its way into Chesapeake Bay, already an ecological nightmare!

You know what? It doesn't matter if you're not a Maryland resident. This is a National Wildlife Refuge; not a state of Maryland Refuge or a city of Cambridge Refuge. We all own a piece of this and the fight belongs to all of us. I know lots of you escape DC and the surroundings for a ride on the Eastern Shore. I've seen you and met you on the road. I've always maintained that if we want good places to ride, we'd better protect habitat. It could happen in your neighborhood next.

You can learn more and take action by clicking this link which will take you to a page maintained by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Tailwinds,
Georgena
talktous@terrybicycles.com
www.terrybicycles.com