Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge
Mountain-Prairie Region

Management

The Refuge's 2800 acres are managed to provide optimum nesting, feeding, and cover habitat for migratory birds. Among the 238 species of birds that have been recorded on the Refuge, 105 species have been confirmed as nesting here.

Eagle
The Refuge is mandated to provide optimal habitat for Federally-listed endangered and threatened animal and plant species. A pair of bald eagles established a breeding territory on the Refuge in 1990. Other raptor species such as the Peregrine falcon occasionally visit the Refuge.

 Providing sustainable fishery resources is a primary goal of Refuge management. Fish-eating birds such as ospreys, great blue herons, double-crested cormorants, bald eagles, belted kingfishers and other species depend on the Refuge's abundant fishery to survive.

Noxious Weed

 Noxious (non-native) weed management plays a critical role in maintaining diverse habitat for wildlife. At least seven noxious weed species occur within the refuge.

Prescribed Fire
Prescribed fire, mowing, re-seeding, hand-pulling, wetland management, and promoting natural insect predators all play parts in integrated weed management. .

Refuge staff work to identify and protect significant historic, cultural, and natural resources within the Refuge that are unique to the Bitterroot Valley. The Whaley Homestead, built in 1885, reflects the history and lifestyle of early settlers.
Last updated: April 17, 2008