THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, December 6, 1994 TAG: 9412060004
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A22 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 36 lines
The article on the Chicoteague National Wildlife Refuge, ``Nature at its best'' (Nov. 26), was an interesting eye opener. It was surely an invitation to the avid waterfowl enthusiast and photographer. Even more, it highlighted a serious inconsistency in Interior Department/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service policies.
Chincoteague is obviously proud to showcase its waterfowl, with a 3.2 mile wildlife loop for observation. For almost 20 years the refuge has hosted more than a million visitors a year. The loop is open to hiking and biking from 6 a.m. until dark. Vehicles are even permitted from 3 p.m. until dark (wildfowl feeding time).
In stark contrast, the Back Bay Refuge has recently imposed stringent limitations on hiking and biking on the refuge interior trails. The restrictions even deny False Cape State Park to conduct reasonable environmental-education activities unless the beach is used for access. Similarly, hikers and bikers are denied inland access.
The same migratory birds use both these refuges, are subject to the same behavioral patterns and should be enjoyed by all citizens, consistent with sound conservation practices and good common sense. It's time the Department of Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service re-evaluate the Back Bay restrictions and establish realistic visitation regulations.
GARY S. KOELLING
Virginia Beach, Nov. 29, 1994 by CNB