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WELCOME TO NECEDAH

Nestled in central Wisconsin is a landscape that was epitomized by early homesteaders as the Great Wisconsin Swamp. A mosaic habitat of sedge meadow, savanna, and pine-oak forest established in 1939 the area is an island of refuge—home to ringed boghaunter dragonflies, whooping cranes, trumpeter swans, wolves, Karner blue butterflies, badgers, and red-headed woodpeckers. Each species and habitat is monitored and maintained by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure overall vigor within the 44,000-acre ecosystem.

Located four miles west of the Village of Necedah off of Hwy 21, the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge provides a range of unique opportunities for people to enjoy and learn about the natural world through hiking, wildlife watching, and cross-country skiing. Travel by car, truck, ATV or horseback on miles of Township roads. Visitors can even take in the sights and sounds of the refuge by canoe or kayak in designated waters. Three established trails wind through various habitat types on the refuge, several observation decks, and refuge roads are open for use from sunrise to sundown to allow visitors an opportunity to see wildlife. Beavers, porcupines, white-tailed deer, foxes or the occasional black bear and timber wolf are sometimes spotted. Stop in at the refuge headquarters for current sightings and information.

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to provide scientific and community leadership and support in the restoration, preservation, and management of waterfowl and other migratory birds, listed species, and native biological diversity within south central Wisconsin, while providing, to the extent possible, quality wildlife-dependent recreational and educational experiences that foster an understanding and appreciation of these resources, and expands the role humankind plays in their stewardship.