Marsh Music – Back Bays

Estuaries and wetlands of Virginia Beach, in summer, fall, and winter

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, on the inland side of Sandbridge island (Atlantic coast)

The refuge is known as a habitat for east coast migratory birds, and on a cold January visit to the barrier island section, there are several photographers out along the marshes. I don’t get any good pictures of birds or photographers, but the pre-sunset reflections on the water are beautiful.

At the inland section, off Newbridge Rd, there is a small environmental teaching center, which is closed on a short November visit. A short trail leads to the marshy creek.

Pleasure House Point, Brock Environmental Center, Lynnhaven River (Chesapeake Bay coast)

This area, surrounded by businesses and neighborhoods, was claimed for development then preserved as parkland after local objection. The natural area includes estuary, freshwater marsh, and pine forest with the Brock environmental center and wind farm. Boating, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking opportunities are available here, and there is also a small playground. It’s a good place to meditate and create songs and stories.

Listen to Boglady by Found Objects of Desire #np on #SoundCloud

More about Brock Environmental Center

North Landing river

Part of the Atlantic intracoastal waterway, this river flows into the Currituck sound in North Carolina and is connected to the Elizabeth river and the Chesapeake Bay as a canal. It is the wider of the intracoastal waterway canals in the area – the other one is historic Dismal Swamp canal.

The North Landing canal runs east-west and passes south of Virginia Beach with a few drawbridge crossings. Boats pass through here particularly in spring and fall between Florida and the Chesapeake Bay. In a late November visit, T and i watch three boats go through this old crossing.

Thick woods in autumn color surround the river as locals fish from the landing and in a canoe by the old wooden pier.