Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge |
|
|---|---|
|
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
|
|
The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge
|
|
 Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge
Location in Oregon
|
|
| Location | Klamath County, Oregon |
| Nearest city | Klamath Falls |
| Area | 14,400 acres (5,800 ha) |
| Established | 1928 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Upper Klamath NWR |
The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in Oregon where nature is protected. It's located in Klamath County, right next to the beautiful Upper Klamath Lake. This refuge was created in 1928 to keep its unique environment safe. It covers about 14,400 acres of freshwater marshes. That's like protecting over 10,000 football fields of wetlands!
This refuge is only reachable by boat. You can launch your boat from places like Rocky Point Resort or Malone Springs. The Upper Klamath Refuge is part of a bigger group of protected areas called the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex. All these refuges are managed together from offices in Tulelake, California.
Contents
What is a Wildlife Refuge?
A wildlife refuge is a place set aside to protect wild animals and their homes. It's like a safe haven for nature. The main goal is to make sure animals have a safe place to live, eat, and raise their young. People can often visit these places to learn about nature.
Why is the Upper Klamath Refuge Important?
The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge protects a large area of wetlands. Wetlands are like nature's sponges. They help clean water and prevent floods. They are also super important homes for many different kinds of plants and animals.
Exploring the Refuge
Since the refuge is mostly wetlands, boats are the best way to see it. You can paddle a canoe or kayak through calm waterways. This lets you get close to nature without disturbing the wildlife. It's a great way to see birds and other animals in their natural habitat.
What You Might See
The refuge is famous for its many birds. You might spot different types of ducks, geese, and swans. There are also birds of prey, like eagles and ospreys. Besides birds, the marshes are home to fish, frogs, and other small creatures. Sometimes, you might even see larger animals like deer along the edges.
Protecting the Future
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service manages the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. Their job is to make sure the refuge stays healthy for wildlife. They work to protect the water quality and the plants that grow there. This helps all the animals that depend on this special place.
How You Can Help
When you visit a wildlife refuge, it's important to follow the rules. This helps keep the animals safe and happy. Remember to stay on marked paths or waterways. Do not leave any trash behind. By being respectful, you help protect these amazing natural areas for everyone.
