u.s. fish & wildlife service parker river · parker river national wildlife refuge ......
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Parker RiverNational Wildlife RefugeCanoeing/Kayaking Information
Thank you for your interest in canoeing/kayaking at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. Please read the following information thoroughly so that we may ensure your canoeing/kayaking experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns. Enjoy your visit!
GeneralOpportunities are available to launch a non-motorized canoe, kayak, or rowboat from the refuge for access to Plum Island Sound and points beyond. All boat motors (including electric) and the launching of all other watercraft, including sailboats, are prohibited. All refuge, state, and U.S. Coast Guard regulations apply. Landing anywhere in the refuge marsh or on the refuge beach is strictly prohibited.
Access and ParkingNon-motorized boat access to Plum Island Sound is available from the refuge at the boat ramp opposite parking lot 1. Launching or landing at any other refuge site is strictly prohibited. Boat ramp use is available year-round during refuge hours of operation, sunrise to sunset. All boaters who have launched from the refuge must exit the refuge by sunset. Motor vehicles & trailers must be parked in a designated parking area. Parking is not permitted at the boat ramp or its access road.
SafetyCheck tide times to avoid being stranded by a low tide. Currents can be strong. Especially in the rivers and creeks of the estuary, low water can cause disorientation if you are unable to see the surrounding landmarks or horizon. An area navigation chart is
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
recommended. Do not rely on the map on the reverse which is intended only for general orientation. Also check the forecast to avoid being caught in inclement weather. During the warmer months, mosquitoes and other biting insects can be very bothersome. Greenheads are aggressive, blood feeding horse flies that may be abundant from July through mid-August. From September 15 - May 15, all canoe and kayak occupants must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device.
Suggested Equipment and Suppliesn extra paddlen sunglasses n hat & jacketn waterproof bagn watern sunscreenn tide chartn compassn navigation chartn insect repellantn refuge information brochuren binoculars/camera/cell phonen wildlife identification guidesn U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device(s) (see requirement above)
Wildlife ViewingThe estuary harbors a great diversity of wildlife. A refuge bird checklist is available from refuge headquarters or the entrance gatehouse when staffed. Please remain an unobtrusive observer by viewing wildlife from an appropriate distance. To minimize wildlife disturbance, landing anywhere on the marsh is prohibited.
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge6 Plum Island TurnpikeNewburyport, MA 01950978/465 5753978/465 2807 Faxe-mail:[email protected]/northeast/parkerriver
Federal Relay Servicefor the deaf and hard-of-hearing1 800/877 8339
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service1 800/344 WILDhttp://www.fws.gov
August 2008
Permits and FeesA permit is not required. However, a refuge entrance fee applies to access the boat ramp for launching. A Daily refuge entrance fee of $5/vehicle or $2/walk-on or bicycle is in effect year-round. Annual passes and commercial rates are available.
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