What We Do
Some of the conservation tools used at the refuge include prescribed fire, cooperative agriculture, through farming and haying, as well as both mechanical and chemical treatment of invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species . Cattle are also commonly used, as well as the recent addition of goats, to graze on the granite outcrops to aid in the removal of invasive trees and to create habitat variation across the refuge.
Our Services
Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge will be allowing cattle grazing on two units of the Refuge beginning in 2023. Grazing unit descriptions, requirements, and maps follow below along with a bid application. Cooperators are responsible for following all terms and conditions identified in the requirements and regulations.
Permittees will be selected based on receipt of sealed high ranked bid for each of the grazing units. Sealed bids are due at the Refuge office no later than 4:00 pm, February 8th, 2023. A box will be placed in front of the office for bid collection after hours. Bids may also be mailed to the Refuge office
Law Enforcement
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service law enforcement officers have a wide variety of duties and responsibilities. Officers help visitors understand and obey wildlife protection laws. They work closely with state and local government offices to enforce federal, state and refuge hunting regulations that protect migratory birds and other game species from illegal take and they preserve legitimate hunting opportunities.
Laws and Regulations
The refuge offers public hunting opportunities consistent with state designated seasons and regulations. Please note that migratory bird hunting is not allowed on refuge lands, including waterfowl. Species open to hunting include: gray partridge, cottontail rabbit, white-tailed jackrabbit, gray and fox squirrel, pheasant, turkey and white-tailed deer. For more information about where you can hunt on refuge lands, and specific regulations regarding hunting on the refuge, please refer to refuge public use regulations. Refuge hunting season dates and regulations are consistent with those established by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Contact the refuge manager at 320-273-2191 for more information.