The Memorial Butterfly Garden was started in 2002. Located just east of the Visitor Center, the Memorial Butterfly Garden is planted with species that are attractive to butterflies, moths and hummingbirds, are not considered invasive and are less desirable to deer. The installation of benches makes it a great place to sit and relax.
The Centennial Viewing Platform was complete in October 2002. This observation area is located near the Main Pool Observation Tower on the south end of the Main Pool. A new walking trail was completed leading from the parking lot, along the Memorial Butterfly Garden, past the Observation tower to the Centennial Viewing Platform.
Volunteers continue to be vital to the success of refuge programs. Many of the facilities and programs that visitors enjoy are available because of this dedicated group of people.
The refuge was fortunate to receive 9466 hours of service in 2002 from three hundred and two volunteers. A breakdown of 2002 volunteer services by categories is provided below.
| Monitoring/Studies | 928 |
| Fish & Wildlife Management | 647 |
| Public Education and Recreation | 7379 |
| Maintenance | 511 l |
Refuge volunteers accomplished and assisted with the following tasks:
Montezuma's volunteers are a diverse group, ranging from students to retirees. "Our volunteers represent a cross-section of our visitors. They include birders, sportsmen and women, educators, and those who don't consider themselves anything other than conservationists," says Refuge Manager Thomas Jasikoff.
New volunteers are needed to help meet the growing demands on the refuge and its programs. Anyone interested in helping staff the Visitor Center, perform trail maintenance, develop exhibits, conduct environmental education programs and/or work with the the Friends of The Montezuma Wetlands Complex should contact: Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, 3395 Routes 5/20 East, Seneca Falls, New York 13148.
In order to better understand how spring vs. summer/fall drawdowns affect the quality of waterbird habitat, as well as use of impoundments by shorebirds, waterfowl, and wading birds, Montezuma is participating in a large-scale research study.
This 3-year study is a bi-regional study, including 23 refuges across the Mid-West & North East.
We need to coordinate regional management efforts to ensure quality habitat is available for migrating waterbirds.
Following the research study protocol, May's Point Pool experienced a spring drawdown this year. This may lead to a significant change in habitat as compared to previous years and may yield less of a chance at seeing shorebirds.
Benning Marsh should still be a good spot to view shorebirds this year since the drawdown will still occur in July.
For 2006 & 2007, Benning Marsh will experience the spring drawdown, possibly leading to less of a chance to see shorebirds there. During these two years, May's Point Pool will employ the summer/fall drawdown in July and should be good for shorebird viewing.
Shorebird habitat is being enhanced toward the beginning of the Wildlife Drive
for further viewing opportunities.
For full information, see
Are We Giving Waterbirds What They
Really Need for Survival?
A Study of Regional Wetland Impoundments Aims to Find Out.
Refuge Manager Tom Jasikoff is busy working on a proposal that will involve enhancing the wetlands in the area along the Wildlife Drive referred to as the dry marsh. This area is between Benning Marsh and Route 89. In addition to the wetland restoration, the Wildlife Drive would be moved south of its existing location. Refuge Manager Jasikoff is also exploring the possibility of creating a Scenic Pull Off from the New York State Thruway in this area. This is a large project that will involve many partners and the planning of such a project will take sometime.
There is limited deer and waterfowl hunting on refuge lands. For information, maps and regulations, please contact the refuge office.