Welcome to Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, the nation’s 500th! The Refuge
works to preserve the unique wetlands and uplands of this high elevation, moist valley. You
may enjoy the Refuge by participating in wildlife-dependent recreation, including wildlife
observation and photography, hunting, fishing, environmental education, and nature
programs.
The combination of wet soils, forests, shrub lands and open lands throughout the valley
provides a diversity of wildlife habitats. In these habitats, some animals, such as deer,
raccoon, geese and squirrel are easy to see. Others, such as mink, bobcat and barred
owls stay hidden most of the time. Beaver build dams from trees, manipulating water
levels to their advantage. Woodcock treat us to their breeding display in spring. Turkey
and ruffed grouse provide a challenge for hunters and birders. Over the years, native
brook trout in the river have been joined by other species of trout and bass.
On August 11, 1994, with the purchase of 86 acres the Refuge was established. It grew
slowly at first. Then, with the purchase of approximately 12,000 acres in 2002, the Refuge
grew to 15,245 acres in size.
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