Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge
Location in Oregon
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| Location | Umatilla County, Oregon, U.S.A. |
| Nearest city | Hermiston, Oregon |
| Area | 3,117 acres (1,261 ha) |
| Established | 1909 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Cold Springs NWR |
The Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge is a special place for nature. It covers about 3,117-acre (12.61 km2) of land. This refuge is located in Umatilla County, Oregon. It's about 7 miles (10 km) northeast of Hermiston. It's also about 3 miles (5 km) south of the Columbia River.
The refuge was created in 1909. Its main goal was to protect and help native birds. Today, it's a home for many different kinds of wildlife. You'll find wetlands here, which are like marshy areas. There are also dry areas with plants like big sagebrush. Native steppe grasses grow here too. Along the water, you'll see willow and cottonwood trees. These trees provide shelter for birds, mammals, and other animals.
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About Cold Springs Wildlife Refuge
The Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area. It's managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. This service works to protect wildlife and their homes. The refuge helps keep the natural environment healthy. It's a great example of how we can protect nature.
The Cold Springs Dam and Reservoir
A big part of the refuge is the Cold Springs Reservoir. This reservoir covers about 1,600-acre (650 ha). It's part of a larger project called the Umatilla Basin Project. The U.S. Reclamation Service built the Cold Springs Dam. This dam was finished in 1908. Its purpose was to provide water for farms. This area is a dry desert, so water for crops is very important. The dam helps local farmers grow their food.
A Home for Wildlife
The refuge's job has grown over time. Now, it also focuses on bringing back native plants and animals. It helps protect the unique desert ecosystem here. The wetlands are a winter home for many waterfowl. These are birds like ducks and geese. The areas near the water are full of songbirds. You can also find healthy groups of western mule deer. There are even desert elk living here. The refuge works hard to keep these animal populations strong.
Fun Things to Do
The Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge is a popular spot. Visitors can easily come and enjoy nature. You can go hunting or fishing here. Many people also love to watch the wildlife. It's a wonderful place to see different birds and animals. It's a great way to learn about nature.
