Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge

Eastern forest dramatically gives way to the western prairie at Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge which was established in 1989. Prior to European settlement, this area teemed with waterfowl, upland birds, bison, wolves and other prairie wildlife. Currently, the refuge is 3,200 acres of prairie-wetland habitat that provides resting and nesting cover for more than 200 species of migratory and game birds, including the charismatic greater prairie chicken. Habitat restoration over the past two decades has resulted in dramatic increases in waterfowl, shorebird and grassland bird numbers, while active management keeps these habitats thriving. Birding is the most popular activity of visitors to the refuge however, other wildlife-dependent recreation is also offered. The refuge has been named an Important Bird Area by the Minnesota Audubon Society.