Explore in carpools this now-closed landfill adjacent to the Blue Mash Nature Trail. Mostly open terrain on a gravel road, including two pond views. Possible sparrows, raptors, and waterfowl. Shorebirds are possible if there are mudflats at the big pond. Leader will have scope for distant birds. We will meet at 8 a.m. Limit: 16. LEADER: Mark England at [email protected] or 240-308-4114.

The Maryland Ornithological Society (MOS) owns 10 sanctuaries, totaling almost 3,000 acres, spanning the state from Garrett County in the western part of the state, to Somerset County on the lower Eastern Shore. The sanctuaries represent a microcosm of the habitats for birds in Maryland and are open every day of the year at no charge. Carey Run and Irish Grove Sanctuaries provide an opportunity for overnight visits, but the other sanctuaries are seldom visited. Marcia will show maps and photos of all the sanctuaries, discuss the birds and habitats found there, and cover some of the challenges MOS faces in managing the properties. Marcia Watson is a longtime member of the Maryland Ornithological Society. As a member of the MOS Sanctuary Committee, she keeps the committee records and works to foster awareness of the sanctuaries. Marcia also serves as editor of MOS’s online Birder’s Guide to Maryland and DC. She is retired from an academic career, and she and her husband Gene Scarpulla (editor of Maryland Birdlife) recently moved to a home adjacent to Loch Raven in Baltimore County.

Join us for this year’s annual walk in honor of former MBC presidents. We will especially remember those who are no longer with us. Longtime birders and new birders, new members and nonmembers—all are welcome. We will meet at 8 a.m. LEADER: Andy Martin at [email protected] or 301-529-2066.