Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

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Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

The Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge is part of the U.S. National Wildlife Refuge System. It’s in northern California, in the Sacramento River valley, across Glenn and Colusa Counties near Willows.

Size and scope
- The Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge covers about 10,819 acres.
- The Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex includes several refuges, located roughly 50 to 90 miles north of Sacramento, totaling about 35,000 acres (around 140 square kilometers).

Purpose and history
- The refuges were created to help migrating birds along the Pacific Flyway while also supporting farming needs in the area.
- The first refuge began in 1937 with help from the Civilian Conservation Corps. More refuges were added after the 1940s.

Habitat and water management
- Water and land are carefully managed to keep wetlands productive for birds.
- Habitats include seasonal marshes, uplands, permanent ponds, and riparian (riverbank) areas.
- The area’s wetlands are maintained through irrigation and controlled burning.

Visiting and access
- The refuge headquarters and visitor center are at the Sacramento NWR near Willows on 99W. It features a wildlife exhibit, a bookstore, and a Discovery Room.
- A six-mile auto tour with three viewing areas and two walking trails lets visitors see wildlife. Walking trails exist at the Sacramento NWR, Colusa site, and the Sacramento River site.
- Cars should stay on designated roads, and some areas allow limited hunting.

Wildlife and plants
- More than 300 species of birds and mammals use the refuges, with sightings varying by season.
- The area supports diverse wildflowers, including the yellow mariposa lily.

Conservation note
- Much of the original wetlands were lost to farming, especially rice cultivation. Fewer than 10% of the original wetlands remain today. The refuges work to protect and restore important habitats for wildlife.