Who are we: The National Wildlife Refuge System

JAZMYN BERNARD

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages an unparalleled network of public lands and waters called the National Wildlife Refuge System.

With more than 500 refuges spanning the country, this system protects iconic species and provides some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities on Earth. Each unit of the refuge system — whether it is a national wildlife refuge, a marine national monument, a conservation area or a waterfowl production area — is uniquely established for the conservation of native species dependent on its lands and water.

Why visit a national wildlife refuge?

National wildlife refuges are great places to get back to nature and reap the mental health benefits of being outdoors. And did you know wildlife refuges are closer than you think. There is at least one national wildlife refuge within an hour’s drive of most major cities. Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is a 40-minute drive from Detroit.

Wildlife refuges also offer a range of popular activities, including wildlife viewing, fishing, photography and hunting. All of these fun activities reconnect you to nature.

Know before you go!

Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is a free natural space available to everyone!

You can visit the grounds of the refuge for self-guided exploration seven days a week during daylight hours!

Looking for even more fun? Stop by the John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center during your visit. It’s open Thursday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. What does a visit mean for you? It means you can now enjoy hiking, fishing, biking, wildlife observation, photography, kayaking, picnics under the pavilion and more at your local refuge any day of the week, from sunup to sundown.

Or, join us inside the visitor center to learn about being a conservation rock star. You’re also welcome to participate in free park ranger-lead programs every weekend.

Come early in the morning and experience nature waking up as the birds begin to sing and the morning sun shines on the Detroit River. Or, visit later in the day with your family, friends or pets, and hike the three miles of trails through the Humbug Marsh Unit. This unit has beautiful trails along the Detroit River that are filled with amazing wildlife to observe.

Now that it’s spring; you’ll soon be able to see the return of many songbirds as they fly into Michigan after a long migration.

The Humbug Marsh Unit also has accommodations including an observation deck, interpretive signs and a human-size model of an eagle’s nest. There are so many things to come out and discover at the refuge; take a ride on the SMART bus and visit us at 5437 West Jefferson Ave., Trenton, MI 48183 or check out our website and Facebook page!

Trenton musician join All-Stars

Trenton Public Schools had students from both Arthurs Middle School and Trenton High School perform in the Downriver Music Guild All-Star Band. This honor band featured guest clinician Dr. David Thornton/Associate Director of Bands at Michigan State University. Mr. Michael Wolf also conducted one of the high school pieces.

The Teller’s Room

The Vault’s exceptional menu features prime cut meats, wild-caught seafood, locally raised chicken, locally-sourced baked goods, an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner six days a week and there is a lunch special featuring a $10 Wagyu beef burger.

If you haven’t yet been to The Vault, you owe yourself a visit.

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