Several people have expressed a concern to me about the impact that the
BWIAB (Biggest Week in American Birding) will have on the resource here.
They say why would you want to bring more people into an area that is
already too crowded.  The phrase "loving a place to death" comes to
mind. 
While the Division of Wildlife is a sponsor of the event, we are not
actively involved in the planning of the event.   That is pretty much
being done by BSBO; Tropical Birding and ONWR.   Yes,  the event will
definitely bring more people into Magee Marsh, but as others have said
there are many other events that will take place at different locations.
Hopefully this will help to spread out the crowds, although during the
peak birding hours I suspect that many people will be on the boardwalk.
People will be where the birds are. 
Magee Marsh is a public wildlife area here for the enjoyment of all.
The DOW mission statement is:
"We are dedicated to conserving and improving the fish and wildlife
resources and their habitat, and promoting their use and appreciation by
the people so that these resources continue to enhance the quality of
life for all Ohioans. "
Time will tell what impact the BWIAB will have on the resource. Birders
are some of the greatest people I know and hopefully all will be
respectful of the area and of each other. Many birding events have some
kind of conservation component to them, giving back to an area that they
use.  Perhaps some of the proceeds from the event could go back into
improving and maintaining the area. 

Happy Birding!

Mary L. Warren
Wildlife Communications Specialist
Magee Marsh Wildlife Area
13229 W. State Route 2
Oak Harbor, OH  43449
419-898-0960 #31
FAX: 419-898-4017
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"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in
order."
                                     John Burroughs


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