Pierce National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Pierce National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
Pierce National Wildlife Refuge Location in Washington (state)
Location	Skamania County, Washington, United States
Nearest city	North Bonneville, Washington
Area	329.38 acres (133.30 ha)
Established	1983 (1983)
Governing body	U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Website	Pierce National Wildlife Refuge

The Pierce National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in southwest Washington. It is part of the beautiful Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. This refuge protects important wetlands and uplands along the north side of the Columbia River. It's located west of the town of North Bonneville.

Pierce National Wildlife Refuge: A Protected Home for Wildlife

What is a National Wildlife Refuge?

A National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area. It is set aside to help keep wild animals and their homes safe. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages these refuges. Their goal is to make sure wildlife can thrive.

Where is Pierce Refuge Located?

This refuge is found in Skamania County, Washington. It sits right next to the mighty Columbia River. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty. It's a great example of the diverse landscapes in Washington state.

Amazing Habitats for Animals

Pierce National Wildlife Refuge has many different types of natural areas. These are called habitats. Each habitat provides a home for different plants and animals.

• Wetlands: These are areas where the land is covered by water, like marshes. They are very important for birds and amphibians.
• Riverbanks: The land right next to the Columbia River is called the riparian corridor. It's a key area for many species.
• Woodlands: The refuge has different types of forests. You can find willow trees, cottonwood and ash trees, white oaks, and even tall Douglas firs.
• Pastures: Some areas are open grasslands. These fields have native grasses that provide food and shelter.
• Waterways: Many small creeks, seeps, and springs flow through the refuge. These provide fresh water for all the wildlife.

Hardy Creek and its Salmon Life Cycle

A Special Creek for Salmon

Hardy Creek flows right through the middle of the refuge. This creek is very important! It is one of the last places where chum salmon still swim in the Columbia River. Salmon are amazing fish that travel from the ocean back to the freshwater streams where they were born to lay their eggs. This journey is a key part of their life cycle.

Other Fish Species

Besides chum salmon, Hardy Creek also supports other types of salmon. You can find small numbers of coho salmon and Chinook salmon. Steelhead (a type of rainbow trout that lives in the ocean) also use the creek. Many other native freshwater fish species live here too. The creek is a vital nursery for these fish.

Visiting Pierce National Wildlife Refuge

Visitor opportunities at Pierce National Wildlife Refuge are limited. This helps protect the sensitive wildlife.

• Group Tours: You can visit the refuge through arranged group tours. These tours are a great way to learn about the refuge with an expert guide.
• Viewing from Nearby Parks: You can also see parts of the refuge from a distance.
  • Beacon Rock: Climb to the top of Beacon Rock. It's a huge rock formation in Beacon Rock State Park. From there, you can get a great view of the refuge.
  • Hamilton Mountain Trail: This trail is also in Beacon Rock State Park. It offers views of the surrounding area, including parts of the refuge.

The main office for Pierce National Wildlife Refuge also manages two other nearby refuges: Steigerwald Lake and Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge.