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. 

5393486
Ottawa NWR Visitor Center Information
  • Hours: Thursday - Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Information Desk Phone number: 419-313-3236
  • Nature Store - accepts cash and credit
  • Equipment lending: Binoculars, fishing poles, Let's Go Outdoors activity backpack, track chair, bug nets, field guides
  • Free shuttle tours Friday - Sunday 11 a.m. and 1 pm, reservations available here
  • Indoor restrooms during the above hours
  • Outdoor restrooms open daily from dawn to dusk
  • America the Beautiful Passes(cash, check, and credit (by appointment or bring backup form of payment, call 419-313-0982)

Visitor Center parking lots and hiking trails are open daily, dawn until dusk. Wildlife Drive is open on scheduled dates, please check the event link. 

Established in 1961, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge protects a network of wetlands, grasslands and forests to provide habitat for a variety of migratory birds, resident wildlife and threatened and endangered species. This network of land covers more than 8,000 acres and when combined with the other refuges in the complex, protects more than 10,000 acres. It has been recognized with global significance for its value to wildlife.

Visit Us

National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to connect with nature, whether it’s the woods that draw you or the open marshes. If you are looking for birds or mammals you are sure to find them here.

Location and Contact Information

      Our Species

      The refuge is an excellent place to find birds and other wildlife. There are many rare birds sighted here every year. The habitat available on the refuge provides for a variety of many types of wildlife.