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Drone Rules for Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

Cambridge, Maryland (MD) • United States
3185 Key Wallace Dr, Cambridge, MD 21613, USA
Lat: 38.4451 • Lng: -76.0737
Ground Not allowed Last updated: May 30, 2026
Summary
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USFWS prohibits drones on Blackwater NWR. The Chesapeake Bay tidal marsh refuge is one of the largest wintering areas for bald eagles on the East Coast and protects the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel.

Drone Rules - Blackwater NWR, Maryland

Drones are prohibited under USFWS Director's Order 210.

Airspace / Site Context

  • Up to 200 bald eagles winter on the refuge; drone noise during early morning roost departures causes documented roost abandonment
  • Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel (ESA threatened) occupies the forest edges -- ground disturbance rules extend to UAS overflights
  • Easton Airport (ESN) Class D is ~10 NM northeast; local airspace is Class G/E

Key Rules

  • Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act adds a second layer of federal protection beyond ESA for eagle disturbance
  • USFWS Special Use Permit required for research UAS; permits are rarely granted during Nov-Feb eagle season
  • The Wildlife Drive (auto tour route) borders tidal marsh; launching from the drive is a federal refuge violation

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