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THE BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING
2017
MAGEE MARSH BOARDWALK CODE OF ETHICS: GUIDELINES TO ENHANCE THE VISITOR’S EXPERIENCE AND PROTECT THE RESOURCE (As developed by Black Swamp Bird Observatory and the Ohio Division of Wildlife) The boardwalk at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area has become an iconic birding des na on. Birders from around the world consider it one of the best places in the Western Hemisphere to experience the spring migra on of songbirds. The area of wooded habitat along Lake Erie that the mile-long boardwalk meanders through is a concentra on point for birds as they pause to rest and feed before crossing the Lake. And because the birding is so sensa onal, the boardwalk can become quite crowded at mes. Black Swamp Bird Observatory, in conjunc on with Ohio Division of Wildlife and local birders and photographers, has developed a simple Boardwalk Code of Ethics to help ensure that your me on these bodacious birding boards is an enjoyable experience. Please note that since Magee Marsh is a state wildlife area, there are some regula ons governing ac vi es that are punishable by law. We list a few par cularly important examples below. The remaining informa on we offer simply as sugges ons to make your experience a posi ve one and to ensure that the birds and the habitat are respected and protected.
ALL VISITORS MUST ADHERE TO THE RULES ESTABLISHED BY OHIO DIVISION OF WILDLIFE. FOR EXAMPLE: ¡
Li ering is prohibited. There are NO TRASH RECEPTACLES near the boardwalk, so the Pack In - Pack Out rule applies.
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To injure, remove, deface, damage, or destroy any tree or plant on state property is prohibited.
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No solici ng of any kind without a wri en permit from the Ohio Division of Wildlife.
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Other than assistance animals, pets are not allowed on the boardwalk.
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Sca ering or placing feed capable of luring, en cing, or a rac ng birds is prohibited.
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Camping, swimming, fires, barbecuing in the area is prohibited.
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REPORT WILDLIFE VIOLATIONS 1-800-Wildlife and 1-800-Poacher
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For a full list of wildlife area regula ons, visit the Ohio Division of Wildlife website, here: h p://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/public-hun ng-fishing-wildlife-viewing-areas/wildlife-area-laws
GENERAL GUIDELINES ¡
So others can enjoy the natural experience, refrain from using radios, shou ng, or making other loud noises.
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Turn cell phones off or set to vibrate.
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Respect the habitat and protect the resource by staying on the boardwalk at all mes.
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For the safety and comfort of others, please don’t block the boardwalk in any way.
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Be aware of your personal space and how it impacts others (i.e. backpacks, tripods, strollers, etc.).
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Be mindful of those around you and allow others to pass in congested areas.
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Do not stand or sit on the railing of the boardwalk at any me.
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Please be considerate of the experience of those around you and do not smoke.
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Please keep in mind that whether birding, photographing, or just enjoying a walk on the boardwalk during migra on, we are all there for the same ul mate reason. Please be respec ul of one another, enjoy the birds and company, and rejoice that there are so many people with varied interests who care for nature.
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We encourage all visitors to purchase an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp (OWLS). Proceeds from the sale of the stamp help generate funding for wildlife diversity in Ohio. OWLS are available for purchase at Black Swamp Bird Observatory and the Sportsman's Migratory Bird Center (both located at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area.) You may also purchase the stamp online at www.bsbo.org