U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service logo National Wildlife Refuge System Logo Celebrating a Century of Conservation
Banner graphic displaying the Fish & Wildlife Service logo, the National Wildlife Refuge System logo and the Celebrating a Century of Conservation tagline
Madison
Wetland Management District		 An aerial view of the wetlands in McCook County show the large number of small prairie potholes that are typical of the Madison Wetland Management District.
23520 SD Hwy 19
Madison, SD   57042
E-mail: madisonwetlands@fws.gov
Phone Number: 605-256-2974
Visit the Refuge's Web Site:
http://madisonwetlands.fws.gov 		The wetlands and lakes in Madison Wetland Management District mark the western edge of the tallgrass prairie, the most threatened ecosystem in North America.
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  Recreation and Education Opportunities

Environmental Education
Structured educational programs, both indoors and out, are available for schools and other interested groups. Please contact the Madison WMD staff for assistance in planning your visit.

Fishing
Extremely wet conditions since the mid 1980's have transformed many WPAs in the District into excellent fisheries. Walleye, perch, crappie, and northern pike can be found in abundance on selected areas throughout the District.

Hunting
All 38,500 acres of the WPAs in the District are open to hunting and trapping in compliance with state laws. South Dakota has long been known as the pheasant capital of the nation, but excellent waterfowl and white-tailed deer hunting opportunities are also available. Trapping has long been a tradition in South Dakota.

Interpretation
Take a walk on the wild side and step into our new visitor center to catch a glimpse of 15 snow geese circling overhead. You can also view framed prints donated by nine local South Dakota artists, and observe the fur, skull, track mold, and scat displays. Outside the visitor center, a spotting scope on the observation deck allows you to view a wide variety of waterfowl. If you arrive at the right time, you will be able to observe large flocks of pelicans performing a fantastic feeding display.

Wildlife Observation
Wildlife observers will find a rich variety of animal and plant life. During migration, large numbers of birds can be found on all of the WPAs. Native prairie grasses, flowers, and other plants can be observed and studied at leisure on many of the WPAs.

Hours
Visitor/education center is open 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday except Federal holidays. Individual WPA units are open 24 hours daily, but camping is prohibited.

Entrance Fees
No entrance fees charged for access to WPAs.

Entrance Fees
The Wetland Management District does not charge user fees (i.e., hunt fees, camping fees, boat launch, meeting rooms rental fees, auto tour fees, guided tour fees, etc.). 		 
 
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