Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve |
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 Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve
Location in Virginia
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| Location | Northumberland County, Virginia |
| Nearest city | Hardings |
| Area | 316 acres (128 ha) |
| Governing body | Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation |
Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve is a special protected area in Northumberland County, Virginia. It covers about 316 acres (128 hectares) of land. This preserve is part of a group of protected lands along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.
It has very important wetlands, which are like soggy lands, that are perfect homes for many marsh birds. Its clean beaches are also home to a special insect called the northeastern beach tiger beetle. Some parts of the preserve used to be farm fields. But now, they have been turned back into forests. This was done by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, The Nature Conservancy, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
What is a Natural Area Preserve?
A Natural Area Preserve is a place set aside to protect rare plants, animals, and natural communities. These areas help keep important habitats safe for wildlife. They also allow people to enjoy nature in a responsible way. Dameron Marsh is a great example of such a place.
Why Dameron Marsh is Special
Dameron Marsh is very important for several reasons. It has one of the most significant wetlands in the Chesapeake Bay region. These wetlands provide a safe place for many different kinds of marsh birds to live and raise their young.
The preserve's beaches are also home to the northeastern beach tiger beetle. This is a special insect that needs clean, undisturbed beaches to survive. Protecting Dameron Marsh helps make sure these unique creatures have a place to live.
Visiting Dameron Marsh
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation takes care of Dameron Marsh. They have made it possible for people to visit and enjoy the preserve. You can find a parking area, hiking trails, and boardwalks to explore. There is also a boat launch for small boats like kayaks or canoes.
It's important to know that some parts of the preserve's shoreline are closed to visitors at certain times of the year. This is done to protect the homes of threatened animals and plants during sensitive times, like nesting season.
