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Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge (MBR) lies in northern Utah, where the Bear River flows into the northeast arm of the Great Salt Lake. The Refuge protects the marshes found at the mouth of the Bear River; these marshes are the largest freshwater component of the Great Salt Lake ecosystem. Since these marshes are in turn surrounded by arid desert lands, it is little wonder that they have always been an oasis for waterfowl.
Bird Refuge to Hold Open House on Road Construction Project
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge staff, along with Federal Highways officials and representatives from Geneva Rock, are inviting the public to an open house on Thursday, November 19, 2009 from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Refuge’s Wildlife Education Center, located at 2155 West Forest Street, Brigham City. Road project details, work schedule and closure information will be shared.Geneva Rock was awarded the contract for phase two of the federal roads project which will widen, raise and pave the county road providing access to the Bear Migratory Bird Refuge’s auto tour route and public use area. Crews are currently conducting survey and shoulder work, which will continue through fall and early winter, as weather permits. There may be occasional single lane closures with delays up to 15 minutes. The public is asked to observe speed limits of 20 mph where crews are working. Signs will be posted in these areas, and flaggers on duty as necessary.
The current construction area begins just west of Interstate 15 at the Forest Street exit from I-15, and continues west approximately 8 1/2 miles to the point where phase one work ended. Construction will continue through 2010, with the county road being closed to the public from June 1 through September 15. Visitors may check for updates by calling the Refuge at (435) 723-5887 or checking this web site.
When the road is closed during June, July and August, guided tours of the Refuge will be provided by trained volunteers three mornings per week using an alternate entrance. A schedule with detailed information on these tours will be posted in the “Visiting” section of the Refuge website prior to June 1.
When the road project is complete, visitors will enjoy a smooth ride on an asphalt road complete with pullouts for safe wildlife viewing.
Throughout the refuge's long, rich past, it has not only been an oasis for shorebirds and waterfowl, but many people find solitude viewing the winter sun setting over the Promontory Mountains, or by watching a pair of American avocets dancing in spring.
Last updated:
November 20, 2009
