Beach Closures
As of April 1, the majority of the refuge beach has been closed to public entry to provide undisturbed nesting and feeding habitat for piping plovers. A small section of beach will remain open at Lot 1. You can learn more about the importance of protecting these special shorebirds by watching this short informational clip. A list of nearby beaches and recreation areas can be found here.
Located along the northeast coast of Massachusetts in an area of dense and expanding human development, Parker River National Wildlife Refuge has special significance and value to migratory birds, other wildlife, and people. The refuge was established in 1941, and today consists of more than 4,700 acres of diverse upland and wetland habitats including sandy beach and dune, maritime shrubs and forests, cranberry bogs, man-made impoundments, salt marsh and associated creek, river, and mud flat. These refuge habitats support varied and abundant populations of resident and migratory wildlife including more than 300 species of birds and additional species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and plants. The refuge also provides critical habitat for the federally threatened piping plover.
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Latest News
Habitat Restoration
For five years, partners on the Great Marsh have been testing nature-based techniques, including runnels, to restore resilience and waterflow back to a sinking marsh. For the first time, they are applying the entire suite of techniques to a 100-acre pilot area to see how the habitat responds when...
Recreation
For experienced birders and newbies alike, national wildlife refuges are wonderful places to see birds in natural habitat. Visitor services specialist Mike Carlo shares his mental list of refuges across the country that are well suited to people of varying birding experience.
Recreation
This story presents a state-by-state glance at national wildlife refuges where travelers seeking a nature break might stop along I-95. It includes expert tips about what a visitor might do and see during a one-hour stop at each refuge.
Climate Change
As the East Coast faces challenges posed by sea-level rise, Nancy discusses ways Parker River fights the tide - with some help from friends
Recreation
This is one in a series of articles in which U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff members reflect on favorite photos they have taken at national wildlife refuges. It features visitor services manager MATT POOLE and Parker River National National Wildlife Refuge in Massachusetts and Great Bay...
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