Our visitor center is a great way to learn about the refuge, but the real resource is the islands. Covered with verdant forest and rich with history and wildlife, we want you to get out and visit all the islands you can. Nothing compares to the experience of approaching an island silently, under your own power in a kayak or canoe, and in that spirit we’ve created the Kayak Challenge! We’re hoping it’s just the little push you need to follow visions of Huckleberry Finn floating down the river!
All about the challenge ...
Hunting can instill a unique understanding and appreciation of wildlife, their behavior, and their habitat needs. As practiced on refuges, hunting, trapping and fishing do not pose a threat to wildlife populations, and in some instances are necessary for sound wildlife management. For example, because their natural predators are gone, deer populations will often grow too large for the refuge habitat to support. Hunting programs can promote understanding and appreciation of natural resources and their management on lands and waters in the Refuge System. Most of Ohio River Islands is open for hunting each fall and winter.
Learn more about hunting at the refuge ...
August 26, 2021
The final Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge Hunting Plan has been released in the wake of a 90 day public comment period earlier this spring. The Plan outlines minor changes to the refuge's hunting policy in order to simplify and more closely align with state regulations.
Learn more details ...
Have you found an injured animal or bird? Are you desperate for help and wondering what to do? Determining whether or not to assist an injured or orphaned animal (or even determining for sure that a bird or animal needs help) can be a challenge on many levels. There are philosophical, environmental, and health considerations. It is one of those situations where our best instincts may be misleading.
What steps should I take?