In September, 2023, volunteers from the Friends of Eastern Neck (FOEN) put up 12 “luxury apartments” (plastic gourds) in hopes of attracting Purple Martins. Martins are the largest swallow species in the U.S. Their close relationship with humans began when Native Americans observed that martins aggressively chased away predatory birds and insects, helping… Read more: Purple Martins Breeding at Eastern Neck Island
Come join us for a kids fishing event sponsored by Friends of Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge and US Fish and Wildlife Service. From 10 am to 12 pm marine scientists and wildlife biologists will demonstrate sampling techniques for bait fish using a beach seine, bottom organisms using sediment grabs, and zooplankton using… Read more: Kids Gone Fishing Event- July 18
OSPREY SYMPOSIUM: On April 25th Friends of Eastern Neck held a symposium to a capacity crowed that put a spotlight on our osprey population in the Chesapeake Bay. Recent studies on Maryland osprey populations suggest a disturbing decline in nesting success is occurring in the Patuxent, Chester, and Choptank Rivers. Friends of Eastern… Read more: Osprey Symposium
Visit Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a breathtaking 2,285 acre island that is home to an abundance of wildlife, paired with stunning views of the Chester River and Chesapeake Bay. It’s no wonder people from all around the area love to spend time exploring what the Refuge has to offer.
We are a volunteer run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supporting Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge. We have approximately 250 members. Our volunteer members staff the Visitor Contact Station and the Friends’ Bookstore and Gift Shop and provide advice and information to our visitors. Friends volunteers are also directly involved in research, maintenance and the hosting of educational events. All of our income, whether it is from gift shop sales, memberships or donations, is dedicated to the support of the refuge and its programs.
The Visitor Contact Station, Gift Shop and Bookstore is staffed by Friends volunteers. Opening hours are on every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. A knowledgeable volunteer will be there to help you with your visit.
