A unique gem located in southeast Michigan in the heart of a metropolitan area, Detroit River IWR is the only international wildlife refuge in North America.
We're excited to welcome you to the John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center grand opening at the Detroit River IWR Gateway site on May 9th 2020!
The 2018 Annual Report for the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
2018 Annual Report
The migrating monarchs began to arrive at Mexican butterfly sanctuaries on October 31. They will start there return in February or March.
Report Your Sightings
Habitat and wildlife found along the Detroit River and Western Lake Erie offer world class opportunities for birding enthusiasts!
Get Started
The 2020 Eagle Tour Lottery Registration has closed. Winners will be notified by January 8, 2020. Thank you for your interest in the wildlife of Southeast Michigan!
Our offices have been moved to a temporary facility on our journey to our future visitor center. All old office phone numbers have been permanently disabled. Please contact staff at the emails listed on the "contact us" page during this transition.
The Humbug Marsh Unit is still closed due to visitor center construction. The Fix, Strong and Gibraltar Bay units are OPEN to self guided exploration. Get out there and enjoy the trails.
The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is proud to be a part of an incredible network of lands that allow wildlife a place to live and people a place to connect.
We have an official date for the John D. Dingell Visitor Center Grand Opening, May 9, 2020. Please stay off site as we are still under construction. Check back here for future updates!
Join the refuge visitor services team this summer! Work to connect the communities in the Detroit Metro area to Nature! APPLICATIONS DUE BY MARCH 1, 2020!
CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO APPLY!
The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.
Hunting opportunities are available on select units of the Refuge. For more information download the refuge hunt brochure.
Learn More
