James
Kraus
Refuge Manager
1502 S.E. Kings Bay Drive
Crystal River, FL 34429
(352) 563-2088
Fax (352) 795-7961
E-mail: Chassahowitzka@fws.gov
Directions to
Refuge
Complex Headquaters
Comprehensive Conservation Plans (CCP)
Refuge Complex Facts
- Chasshowitzka National Wildlife Refuge Complex admisters five National Wildlife Refuges:
- Chassahowitzka NWR, Crystal River NWR, and the Tampa Bay Refuges-Egmont Key NWR, Passage Key NWR, and Pinellas Key NWR.
Natural History
- The refuge provides habitat for approximately 250 species of birds, over 50 species of reptiles and amphibians, and at least 25 different species of mammals. Endangered and threatened species on the refuge include manatees, sea turtles, and bald eagles.
- The refuge consists of coastal saltmarsh, shallow bays, tidal streams, and rivers, mangrove islands, and coastal maritime hammock.
Refuge Complex Objectives
- Provide habitat and protection for endangered and threatened species such as manatees, sea turtles, bald eagles.
- Provide nesting habitat for colonial waterbirds, wintering gulls, and terns.
- Provide habitat for migratory waterfowl and other birds.
- Provide wildlife dependent recreation and environmental education for the public.
Commercial Use on Refuge Complex
- All commercial activities and certain other activities require special permission.
- Commercial use on the refuge requires a Special Use Permit.
Financial Impact of Refuge Comlex
- Nine-person staff.
- 35,000 visitors annually .
- Current budget (FY 07) $987,500.
