Join us for Waterfowl Observation Day on Saturday, November 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at two roadside overlooks in the La Crosse District of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge (Refuge). Listen to the lively calls of tundra swans, watch bald eagles soar overhead, and see how many species of ducks and other waterbirds you can identify. The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is a critical stopover site for tundra swans; there are few other places you can enjoy such a phenomenal fall show! This FREE event is open to all ages.
Nonprofit partners will be present at the Brownsville and Shady Maple Overlooks during this special event to help visitors identify birds and learn more about migration. The Brownsville Overlook is located about three miles south of Brownsville, Minn., along Minnesota State Highway 26. The Shady Maple Overlook is located on the Wisconsin side of the river, about three miles south of La Crosse, Wisc. along Wisconsin Highway 35. Stop by one or both roadside pull-offs to enjoy the fall migration and learn from local experts!
Light refreshments will be offered during Waterfowl Observation Day at the Brownsville Overlook, while supplies last, courtesy of the Friends of the Upper Mississippi River (FUM). Nonprofit partners will also have nature-themed items available for purchase at this location. A portable toilet will be onsite, provided by Kids and Mentors Outdoors (KAMO).
Volunteers from the Friends of the Refuge – Mississippi River Pools 7 & 8 (FOR78), FUM, and KAMO will provide interpretation at the Brownsville Overlook, while members of the Izaak Walton League – Upper Mississippi River Chapter will provide interpretation at the Shady Maple Overlook. We are very grateful to our partners for helping bring Waterfowl Observation Day to life!
Parking at both overlooks is limited. If parking lots are full when you arrive, please consider visiting another site and returning later. The Highway 26 Overlook, located about ½ mile south of the Brownsville Overlook, is usually a great place to see rafts of diving ducks. Goose Island County Park, located about one mile north of the Shady Maple Overlook, offers beautiful views of the Refuge and Mississippi River. Please dress warmly. It’s always chillier by the water!
If you’re unable to attend Waterfowl Observation Day on November 14, a Refuge naturalist will also staff the Brownsville Overlook from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays from November 7 through November 22, weather permitting. For more information, call 608-779-2399 or visit the La Crosse District Visitor Center at N5727 County Road Z, Onalaska, WI 54650.