The third annual Delaware Challenge is back: First State Challenge 2011 sponsored by Delaware Geocachers! Now its moved to a fall event.
There are about 20 new caches spread across the state of Delaware by volunteer cachers to give you an appreciation for the great areas of the First State. These should all be fairly easy to find as they are either small or regular size with a maximum rating of 2/2.
To complete this challenge and be eligible for a small Challenge tag & certificate at the challenge event, you must complete the following:
1. You must find and log ALL FSC-2011 caches- both at the cache location and online.
2. Record the code phrase written in the log book of each hide and email your completed list of all FSC-2011 code phrases to FSC2011@aol.com
3.For your convenience, there is a form on the Delaware Geocaching Website at First State Challenge 2011 - Form although the use of this form is not required.
4. There will be a Challenge Event (12/10 in Dover) open to all cachers. At this event, those that have been verified as completing the challenge, will be eligible for a small Challenge tag and Completion certificate.
5. The small Challenge tags are limited to the first 100 cachers who complete the challenge.
6. More information can be found on the Delaware Geocachers FSC-2001 Page First State Challenge 2011 or on the forum page First State Challenge 2011 Forum
Description: Blackbird Creek from the air:
The Blackbird Creek Reserve component is part of the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR). Blackbird Creek Reserve boasts several miles of trails through uplands and along the marsh, a canoe/kayak launch, restoration demonstration areas as well as a variety of programs and volunteer opportunities for the community, teachers, students, and families. The Reserve also supports ongoing research and monitoring, field studies, citizen monitoring programs, and training opportunities for coastal decision makers.
The Reserve owns and manages over 400 acres on five properties along the Blackbird Creek. It is open to the public from dawn until dusk 7 days a week and free of charge.
The Blackbird Creek Reserve consists of freshwater tidal and non-tidal wetlands and brackish-water marshes. Saltmarsh cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and common reed are among the most common wetland plants. The upland fringe is a mixture of shrub and tree species, including both hardwoods and softwoods.