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Re: RN Phalarope still at Harney Rd Ponds, Frederick County, 5/22

From:

Bob Mumford

Reply-To:

Maryland Birds & Birding

Date:

Sat, 22 May 2004 16:49:56 EDT

Sherry - Here is a retransmission of Bob Ringler's excellent directions to
the ponds on Thursday:

Directions to Mason-Dixon Farm:

Go north on US15 to Emmitsburg.  Exit to Route 140 but from the ramp continue
straight ahead onto Harney Road.  You will be heading east. In about three
miles you will pass Bullfrog Road going to the north, then Bullfrog Road going
to the south.  At the top of the next rise there is a farm lane to the left.
You cannot see it until you reach it so be careful of other traffic.  Turn left
onto this lane which is paved.  As you proceed you will see the pond below
you on the right.  Continue until you come to a muddy lane that goes to the
right and borders the pond.  Despite the rain today it was still easily driveable.
 You can turn around at the far side of the pond.  From this lane you have a
close view of the pond.  Birds move around quite a bit but the shorebirds
frequently congregate in the corners where there is more mud or on the mud bars in
the middle.  Bring a telescope.  Light is best on cloudy days but you can
always work for a better angle.
   Cautions - This is private property for which access was obtained some
years ago.  There is no problem entering if you stay out of the way of any farm
activity.  Usually no one is around.  Stay behind the fence around the pond.
The pond is filled with manure which you will readily detect.  The lane is
muddy but stone has been put down in the worst spot and it is easily driveable.
Since it is red clay mud I suggest you wear boots.  When returning to Harney
Road remember you are at a blind intersection.

Re seeing the P.G. without a scope.  It is certainly possible, but a scope is
far better.  Some of the distances are quite long over that impoundment.  You
could get lucky, and then again, you could not be.  Remember, afternoon sun
is better than morning.

Bob Mumford
Darnestown