The last day for this year’s Open Roads Days at Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge is Sunday, Dec. 9.

The three-day event starts Friday, Dec. 7 and continues through Saturday, Dec. 8.

From sunrise to sunset, the public will be able to drive the roads normally closed to vehicular traffic around the refuge impoundments at the end of Mackay Island Road.

This opportunity will allow visitors to observe and photograph the abundant waterfowl that frequent the refuge this time of year.

The roads located North and South of the Middle Pool will be open to two-way traffic. Safe vehicle turnaround areas are provided at both ends of these spurs.

Traffic must proceed around the impoundments in a counter-clockwise direction as indicated by signs.

Refuge staff will monitor road conditions during the event. If road conditions begin to deteriorate due to heavy rainfall and traffic, the event may be cancelled early. The refuge headquarters area will remain closed during this event. Activities may include hiking, bicycling, fishing and wildlife observation and photography.

The refuge speed limit is 15 miles per hour and visitors are asked to park in safe, suitable locations.

The entrance to the Open Roads area is located at 592 Knotts Island Rd., Knotts Island, 6.2 miles south of the NC state line on Hwy. 615. Knotts Island may be reached by traveling south on Princess Anne Road from Virginia Beach, Va. or by taking the free ferry from Currituck.

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