Illinois River NW&FR
Midwest Region

Refuge Regulations | This link opens in a new windowFact Sheet | This link opens in a new windowRefuge Map (84 KB)

The Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge was established on December 29, 1993. The 11,122 acre refuge is being purchased by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect, restore, and manage migratory bird, fish, and resident wildlife habitat in the Illinois River Valley. It will also provide increased public recreation and educational opportunities.

Historically, two backwater lakes named Thompson (1,800 acres) and Flag (1,000 acres) provided habitat for migratory birds, fish, and resident wildlife.

To date, the Fish and Wildlife Service has acquired 2,114 acres.





 

Last updated: September 22, 2008