Description

The Waterfence Landing offers boating access to the Mattaponi River, its associated brackish marshland, and the Mattaponi Water Trail. The site access is limited to launching and taking out of watercraft and is not open to shore viewing. A short paddle will put the visitor amidst the low marsh vegetation that dominate the river’s far edge. Wildlife of all varieties utilizes the river corridor’s habitat. By listening for the “clapping” call of the elusive clapper rail emanating from this habitat, patient observers may get a glimpse of this difficult-to-see species. The marsh habitat also provides food and resting places for migrant and wintering waterfowl. Northern harriers can be observed coursing over the marsh in search of mammals, while eagles actively fish in the river’s prey-rich waters.

Directions

From Dragon’s Lair 1 in Middlesex County, return to Rt. 603 and turn right; continue south for approximately 5.0 miles to SR 14. Turn right onto SR 14 and continue for about 1.0 miles to Water Lane/Rt. 611. Turn left and travel 1.5 miles to the end of the road. Site viewable only by boat