Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge received the Eastern Shore Leadership Environment Award in April for protecting 26,000 wildlife habitats. Blackwater was called the biological crescent of the Eastern Shore because of its impressive array of rare and pristine natural communities and habitats. The refuge is the largest tourist attraction in Dorchester County, Maryland.

Blackwater refuge is considered the most complex and diverse national wildlife refuge in the Northeast. It provides habitat for threatened Delmarva fox squirrels and bald eagles and approximately 35 percent of the Atlantic Flyway's waterfowl and shorebird population. The refuge is recognized both nationally and internationally. It is a Ramsar Wetland Site of International Importance and an International Bird Area.

The environmental leadership award is one of six awards in different categories given annually to organizations and businesses reflecting excellence in business, government, nonprofit and education throughout the Eastern Shore.

NORTHEAST REGION, U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE -- Conserving the Nature of the Northeast