Watercress Darter National Wildlife Refuge, located in Bessemer, Alabama, was established to provide protection for the endangered watercress darter.

Visit Us

 National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. Through the changing of the seasons, each visit to Watercress Darter National Wildlife Refuge will bring a new experience. 

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      Established to provide protection for the watercress darter as well as to conserve and restore its crucial habitat, Watercress Darter National Wildlife Refuge consists of two ponds, several stands of mixed pine-hardwoods with shrubs, and a single residence.

      What We Do

      National Wildlife Refuges are managed for the conservation and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

      Our Species

      Watercress Darter National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of wildlife species associated with its habitat. The mosaic of habitats include pine-hardwood forest stands, and shrubs interspersed with ponds and limestone springs.

      Our Library

      Visit our digital library to view refuge documents.