Challenges along the way are the cost of the Herbert H. Bateman Educational and Administrative Center (HHBEAC). The excitement of seeing this dream become a reality is well worth the price.

To meet the challenge of various trail closures and lack of an auditorium, the summer schedule will have a new look. Rather than a static schedule for the entire summer, a two-week schedule will be issued throughout June, July, and August. The flexibility of a short term listing of programs will allow public use staff to adapt to the HHBEAC construction schedule. This programming will start the weekend of June 22nd. Look for your favorites such as Marsh Marvels, Legacy of the Lighthouse, and Woodland Wonders. Due to their popularity, bicycle interpretive tours will be conducted on Wednesday mornings starting June 19th in cooperation with Assateague Island National Seashore staff. An increased number of Island Nightlife Walks will keep visitors involved into the evening hours to reduce the void left by lack of auditorium programs.

As we approach the National Wildlife Refuge System Centennial in 2003, Refuge staff will also offer a Countdown Calendar of Events.

July 1 "A Great Day for Ducks"
Celebrate the Federal buck Stamp

• 10:00 AM Bird Banding
  Learn the how and why of bird banding through this one-hour, hands-on demonstration
• 1:00 PM Lucky Ducky
  Come learn about waterfowl while discovering "winning" facts. One of the few complete Duck Stamp Collections in the public domain will be on display at the CNWR Visitor Center.

July 7 "In Tune With Nature"

• 2-6:00 PM Various Activities - - Refuge staff
• 3:30 PM Billy B In Concert at Memorial Park
  Come enjoy the family-fun song styling of Billy 8 and get in tune with nature.

August 31 Labor Day Weekend

• 7:30 AM Earlybird Walk

Summer interpretive information can be obtained at the Visitor Contact Station or the Refuge Administrative Office. Be part of the fun in the sun!

Jill Van Scoyoc
Outdoor Recreation Planner, CNWR