Jeff Springer exploring the river maze. Photo by Fran Stephenson 10/4/08.

Young visitor imagines what it's like to be in a bear den. Photo by Fran Stephenson 10/4/08.

More than 300 people came to Wallkill River NWR on a perfect fall day to enjoy "Refuge Day", a National Wildlife Refuge Week event.  The Friends of Wallkill River Refuges sponsored and planned many of the activities including canoe/kayak trips, guided hikes, numerous exhibits and various nature games that entertained children for hours.  Several members of Double V Rod and Gun Club volunteered their time and talent by offering hands on archery lessons. There truly was something for everyone.  Refuge Day was also the unveiling of a 275-foot foot maze of the Wallkill River, which was designed to teach visitors about the river from its source to its mouth, linking various locales throughout its 90-mile length, including two NWRs.  The maze was skillfully made and hand painted by Marie Springer, president of the Friends Group along with other volunteers.  It was designed to depict the seasons of the river, its natural history, wildlife habitats, landscapes, and, of course, the animals living along the banks.