Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Harbor Island Potagannissing Bay, Drummond Township, Chippewa County, Michigan |
| Area | 695 acres (281 ha) |
| Established | 1983 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge |
The Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in Michigan, USA. It's a horseshoe-shaped island that covers about 695 acres. This island is found in Potagannissing Bay, just north of Drummond Island.
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service bought Harbor Island in 1983. They bought it from a group called The Nature Conservancy. Their goal was to protect the island's nature and wildlife. That's why it became a "National Wildlife Refuge." It's located in Drummond Township, in Chippewa County.
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What Makes This Island Special?
Harbor Island is part of a rich natural area. The waters around it, called Potagannissing Bay, are full of freshwater fish.
Fish in the Bay
You can find many types of fish here. Some common ones include:
These fish are important to the bay's ecosystem.
Trees on the Island
The island itself is covered with different kinds of trees. These trees provide homes and food for wildlife. Some of the trees you might see are:
These trees create a beautiful and healthy forest.
Visiting Harbor Island
Harbor Island is a protected area, but visitors are welcome. It's a great spot for people who love nature.
How to Get There
There are no bridges connecting Harbor Island to the mainland. This means you can only reach the island by boat. The protected harbor on the island is a popular place for small boats to anchor safely.
Who Manages the Refuge?
Even though Harbor Island is its own refuge, it doesn't have its own staff on the island. Instead, it is managed by people from the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. This other refuge is also located in northern Michigan. They work to keep Harbor Island a safe and healthy home for animals and plants.
