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Refuge
Facts
Natural History
- The salt flats area is catalogued as a category 1 resource by the National Fish and Wildlife Service, meaning that the area is unique and irreplaceable both at national and regional levels.
- The refuge lies along the
coastal plain of southwestern Puerto Rico. This land had been in agricultural
use for at least two centuries prior to Service ownership. Heavy grazing
left the area barren except for a limited number of trees in drainage's
and near homesteads.
- At present, the refuge is
approximately 65 percent forest/ scrub and 35 percent grassland.
- Over 245 plants and 145 bird species have been identified on the Refuge.
Refuge Objectives
- To restore and enhance native
wildlife and plants, particularly the endangered yellow-shouldered blackbird.
- To increase the level of
environmental awareness among residents and visitors.
- To protect one of the most important shorebird habitats in the Eastern Caribbean.
Management Tools
- Fuel Management.
- Reforestation.
- Law enforcement.
- Environmental education.
Public Use Opportunities
- Interpretive Center (administered by Friends Organization)
- Hiking trails.
- Wildlife observation and
nature photography.
- Observation Tower
- Interactive Displays
- Bike Trail
Mission:
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's mission is, working with others, to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are the only agency of the U.S. Government with that primary mission.
The Service helps protect a healthy environment for people, fish and wildlife, and helps Americans conserve and enjoy the outdoors and our living treasures. The Service's major responsibilities are for migratory birds, endangered species, certain marine mammals, and freshwater and anadromous fish. |
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