5397001
Public Review and Comment on Draft Programmatic Compatibility Determination for Rights‑of‑Way and Rights to Access

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public review and comment on the Draft Programmatic Compatibility Determination for Rights‑of‑Way and Rights to Access for Temporary Disturbances and Minor Impacts on Conservation Easements in the Midwest Region. This draft document evaluates the compatibility of proposed activities that may cause temporary, minor disturbances while supporting necessary public infrastructure needs across conservation easements in the Midwest Region. The draft Compatibility Determination will be available for a 30‑day public comment period from June 10, 2026 to July 9, 2026. Comments, questions, or concerns can be sent to: R3Planning@fws.gov

5396211
Waterfowl hunting at sunset
Accepting Public Comments on Proposed Hunting and Fishing Program Changes

The FWS is seeking public review and comment on the proposed opening or expansion of hunting and/or fishing. The public is invited to review the draft documents, including the draft plan(s), compatibility determination(s) as appropriate, and NEPA compliance documentation. The draft documents are available through the Federal Register docket number: FWS–HQ–NWRS–2026–1223. 

The comment period on the proposed hunting and sport fishing regulations across Service-managed lands and waters will stay open for 30-days from May 27 through June 26, 2026. Please submit your comments directly through the Federal Register. 

Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge is a key part of a patchwork of preserves and wildlife areas in the region that include some of Minnesota’s best remaining prairies.

Visit Us

Managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to benefit migratory birds and resident wildlife species, the prairies and wetlands of Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge attract a variety of exceptional bird species.

Location and Contact Information

      Our Species

      Prairie chickens, upland sandpipers and western prairie fringed orchids are a few of the unique species you may see on the refuge. The refuge is located in the Mississippi Headwaters and Northern Tallgrass Prairie ecosystem. It is a key component of the prairie pothole mix of small wetlands surrounded by upland prairies and woodland savannas. This mix of small wetlands and uplands are crucial as breeding habitat for an array of migratory birds, including waterfowl, songbirds, shorebirds and others.