Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge
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 Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Location in Virginia
Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Fairfax County, Virginia, United States |
| Nearest city | Woodbridge, Virginia |
| Area | 2,277 acres (9.21 km2) |
| Established | 1969 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge |
The Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a very special place in Virginia, United States. It's a protected area where nature can thrive. This refuge is found on Mason Neck, a peninsula that sticks out into the Potomac River. It's also right next to Mason Neck State Park.
This refuge was started in 1969. It was the very first federal refuge created specifically to protect the amazing bald eagle. These majestic birds are a symbol of the United States, and this refuge helps them live safely. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service manages this important natural area.
Contents
What is a National Wildlife Refuge?
Imagine a safe home for wild animals and plants. That's what a National Wildlife Refuge is! These special places are set aside by the United States government. Their main goal is to protect different kinds of wildlife and their natural homes.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages these refuges. They work hard to make sure animals have enough food, water, and shelter. They also help protect plants and important natural features. People can often visit these refuges to learn about nature and see wildlife.
A Home for Bald Eagles
The Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge was created especially for the bald eagle. In the past, bald eagles were in danger. Their numbers were getting very low. This refuge helped give them a safe place to nest and raise their young.
Bald eagles build huge nests, often in tall trees near water. They love to eat fish, so being near the Potomac River is perfect for them. Thanks to places like this refuge, bald eagle populations have grown stronger. It's a great success story for conservation!
Size and Natural Features
This refuge is quite large, covering about 2,277 acres (which is about 9.2 square kilometers). It has a long shoreline along the Potomac River, stretching about 4.4 miles (7.1 kilometers). This long shoreline provides lots of space for wildlife.
The land inside the refuge is covered with beautiful oak and hickory forests. These trees provide homes and food for many animals. The refuge also has the biggest freshwater marsh in northern Virginia. A marsh is a type of wetland, like a swamp, but usually with more grasses and reeds. Marshes are very important for many birds, fish, and insects.
Honoring Elizabeth S. Hartwell
The refuge was originally called Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge. Later, it was renamed to honor a local hero, Elizabeth S. Hartwell. She was an amazing activist who worked very hard to protect Mason Neck.
Elizabeth Hartwell fought to keep this beautiful area free from too much building and development. She wanted to make sure that the natural beauty and wildlife habitat would be saved for the future. Renaming the refuge after her was a way to say thank you for her dedication and hard work in protecting nature.
Images for kids
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Boardwalk in Mason Neck
