Wetlands within the acquisition area provide excellent habitat for a variety of migratory and resident wildlife species. The Refuge supports one of the highest densities of nesting waterfowl in Wyoming, provides nesting habitat to colony nesting bird species, has excellent potential for reintroduction of trumpeter swans, and provides habitat for resident species, including greater sage grouse, mule deer, elk, and pronghorn.

Because it was only recently established, Cokeville Meadows NWR is not open to public use. However, over the next several years, Refuge staff will begin public planning processes that may open Refuge lands to a variety of public uses such as wildlife viewing, interpretation, fishing, hunting, environmental education, and photography. Some of these activities may be contingent on acquisition of additional lands so the public has clear boundaries on which to recreate without infringing on adjacent private lands.

Newly acquired lands are posted with boundary signs and evaluated for a variety of factors. Local ranchers and Refuge managers work together on Refuge projects, including irrigation, weed control, tract cleanup, fence maintenance, and conversion of marginal croplands to permanent native vegetation. Ranchers also provide food plots for wildlife and implement selective haying and grazing activities. In exchange, ranchers receive hay, crop, and grazing shares. This management regime maintains the vigor of wet meadow and other vegetation that is critical for wildlife.

Refuge staff also work closely with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to identify and achieve management goals and objectives and to conduct annual wildlife inventories.