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Lee Metcalf
National Wildlife Refuge
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 Refuge Overview: Located in western Montana’s Bitterroot Valley near the town of Stevensville, Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge is bordered by the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountain Ranges and the Bitterroot River. The refuge was established in 1963 as Ravalli National Wildlife Refuge and purchased with Federal Duck Stamp Dollars. In 1978, the refuge was renamed Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge to honor the late Senator from Montana. Senator Metcalf had been a key player in the creation of the refuge and an advocate for conservation throughout the country.
Emily
West/USFWS-FDSO |
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| Wildlife and
Habitat: Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge
protects vital riparian areas and upland bench habitats in one
of Montana’s fastest growing counties. A dynamic refuge,
seasonal flooding and channel erosion often alter the course
of the Bitterroot River and bring changes to the surrounding
landscape. A series of ponds in the center of the refuge are
seasonally managed for all wildlife, but provide particular benefit
for migratory waterfowl.
The refuge is home to a number of wildlife. White-tailed deer
are especially prolific and can be seen regularly throughout the
area, along with pheasants, coyotes, and ground squirrels. Ospreys
are also common on the refuge and have several nests in the area.
A pair of bald eagles has nested on the refuge since 1990, and
there are great blue heron and double-crested cormorant rookeries
as well. Throughout the year, but particularly during the spring
and fall migration seasons, large number of migratory songbirds
and waterfowl can be found on the refuge.
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| Recreation Opportunities: A
number of outdoor recreation opportunities are available at Lee
Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, including hunting, fishing, bird
watching, and photography. There are also over 2.5 miles of hiking
trails in the Wildlife Viewing Area of the refuge, and the refuge
is an ideal location for an outdoor classroom. Members of the refuge
staff at Lee Metcalf serve as coordinators for the Montana
Junior Duck Stamp Program, a national environmental education and creative
arts program. |
Additional Resources
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