Birds are sensitive during the nesting season. Vegetation clearing, ground disturbance, heavy wake near shorelines and other site construction and recreational activities can destroy eggs or nestlings or cause nest abandonment. If you encounter an active nest, leave it be and give it space until young hatch and depart the area. Do not destroy eggs, chicks, or adults of wild bird species. Learn about the laws that govern migratory birds in Alaska including possible exceptions for subsistence gathering. More information on avoiding waterbird harassment and timing recommendations for construction activities to minimize impacts to nesting birds.
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Nowitna Refuge is 150 miles west of Fairbanks, connected only by air and river to the rest of Alaska. Ruby and Tanana are the nearest communities. In winter you can reach the Refuge by snowmachine or by ski-equipped aircraft. Small planes can land on rivers and larger lakes until ice melts in mid-April. You can visit the refuge in summer by boat on the Yukon and Nowitna Rivers, or by floatplane, landing on the larger lakes or rivers. Wheel-equipped planes can land on some gravel bars during low water. There are no all-weather trails or roads on the refuge.