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Phone: 618-634-2231 E-mail: CypressCreek@fws.gov |
Our Mission
Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge is one of over 545 refuges across the nation and was established in 1990. The refuge will eventually encompass approximately 36,000 acres of the Cache River Wetlands. It consists of valuable forests and wetlands along the Cache River and Cypress Creek. The emphasis at the refuge is on protecting and restoring habitat and providing opportunities for the public.
Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge has also partnered with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy, Ducks Unlimited, and local citizen groups in a cooperative preservation and restoration effort called the the Cache River Wetlands Joint Venture. The goal of this project is to protect and restore over 60,000 acres and influence land use changes throughout the Cache River Watershed. Efforts will be directed towards repairing natural ecosystems and providing hunting, fishing, hiking, canoeing and other recreational opportunities while expanding the region's economic diversity.
Our Primary Purposes
Protect, restore and manage wetlands and bottomland forest habitats in support of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan
Provide resting, nesting, feeding and wintering habitat for waterfowl and other migratory birds
Protect endangered and threatened species and their habitats
Provide for biodiversity
Protect a National Natural Landmark
Increase public opportunities for compatible recreation and environmental education
