Submitted photo Stauffer’s Marsh is the site of an upcoming nature walk.

The Potomac Valley Audubon Society will sponsor a guided nature walk at its Stauffer’s Marsh Nature Preserve in Berkeley County on Wednesday, Aug. 17. The walk will begin at 7:30 a.m. and last until about 10 a.m. It is free and open to anyone with an interest. Children will be welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult.

Pre-registration is strongly encouraged but not required. Easy registration is available on the Society’s website at www.potomacaudubon.org

Participants should park and meet at the parking area at the north end of the marsh.

The walk will be led by naturalist Steve Hartman. He will focus on the the marsh’s birds and animals, as well as its plants and trees.

The marsh is a prime stopover place for shorebirds that migrate at this time of year, so this walk should be a good opportunity to see sandpipers and egrets, as well as green and blue herons.

The Preserve is only 46 acres in size, so the distances to be walked are not great. However, the terrain includes wet meadows and marshlands, as well as dry areas, so waterproof footwear is essential.

Participants should also plan to dress for the prevailing weather conditions. Ticks can be an issue at the preserve, so insect repellent is recommended.

Binoculars will be available for anyone who needs them.

The Stauffer’s Marsh Nature Preserve is located in Back Creek Valley in Berkeley County, one-half mile south of Shanghai, on the east side of Back Creek Valley Road (County Route 7).

For more information contact Krista Hawley at adultprograms@potomac audubon.org or 703-303-1026.