Located 36 miles east of Vancouver, just past Beacon Rock State Park, the refuge is a rare undisturbed sanctuary for wildlife in the highly visited Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. The Refuge offers larger species like Roosevelt Elk and black bear, and threatened and endangered species such as chum salmon and western pond turtles a place to thrive and recover.

Pierce NWR was established in 1983 to provide habitat for waterfowl, particularly Canada geese. The habitats of the Refuge include wetlands, grasslands, forests and streams. Staff and partners strive to study, restore and monitor these habitats and species to ensure their long term success.

In keeping with this research and monitoring emphasis, human disturbance is kept to a minimum. There is no visitor access at this refuge.
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Complex Seeks Public Comment on Compatibility Determinations

The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex, including Pierce, Franz and Ridgefield NWRs has prepared compatibility determinations for Education and Interpretation, Wildlife Observation and Photography and Research. These CDs renew and update existing uses. The Service will accept comments received or postmarked on or before January 2nd. 

Find more information on our What We Do Page

About Us

The Refuge offers larger species like Roosevelt Elk and black bear, and threatened and endangered species such as chum salmon and western pond turtles a place to thrive and recover.

What We Do

Wildlife conservation is at the heart of the National Wildlife Refuge System. It drives everything we do from projects and research to the recreational activities offered. Using conservation best practices, the Refuge System manages Service lands and waters to help ensure the survival of native wildlife species.

Location and Contact Information