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| Columbia
National Wildlife Refuge |
The Columbia National
Wildlife Refuge is situated within the Columbia Basin of central
Washington. Approximately 30,000 acres, scattered across four counties,
comprises the
Refuge land. Most of this land is astride Crab Creek between Potholes
Reservoir and the Columbia River in both Grant and Adams Counties.
Located in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains, the Refuge
averages less than eight inches of annual precipitation. The moisture
this arid environment does receive occurs late fall to early spring;
summers are generally hot and dry.
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| Columnar
basalt pillars in the snow |
Established in conjunction
with the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project in 1944, most of the
Refuge is within the Drumheller Channels National Natural Landmark.
Surrounded by irrigated cropland, this area is characterized by
a tapestry of cliffs, coulees, lakes, wetlands and shrub-steppe.
These diverse environments provide critical habitat for numerous
species. Located along the Pacific Flyway the Refuge is particularly
important as a stop-over and wintering ground for migratory birds
and waterfowl. |
