Through a number of innovative partnerships, the refuge is protecting scarce natural habitats and agricultural resources in an area threatened by urban sprawl and agricultural changes. Stone Lakes Refuge contains both seasonal and permanent wetlands, riparian forest, and grasslands, as well as some of the last remaining freshwater lakes in the central valley.

These habitats support large populations of migratory water birds, a major rookery for several colonial nesting species such as great blue herons, and a warm water fishery. Several endangered, threatened, and special-status species benefit from these habitats: the valley elderberry longhorn beetle, Swainson's hawk, and greater sandhill crane.

Visitor numbers increase every year; they topped 8,500 in 2001, despite a lack of developed facilities such as a visitor education center and restrooms. Volunteers from the local area dedicate their time on weekends guiding visitors through grasslands and tree-lined waterways to educate the public about the refuge in their backyard.

A self-guided hike to the universally accessible wildlife viewing platform is open to the public every second and fourth Saturday of each month except July and August. The trail is normally open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; but please call the information line (916-775-4420) for any updates to the schedule.

To find the entrance to the hiking trail, take Interstate 5 south from Sacramento, approximately 10 miles, to the Elk Grove exit. After exiting, turn right on the off-ramp before going back over the overpass, and meet at the gate for special events and public access days.

Impoundments are flooded in early fall; and water is maintained through spring. Vegetation such as cattails and bulrush is manipulated through mowing and disking. The refuge also works cooperatively with local agencies to chemically control water hyacinth.

Impoundments are managed by the local mosquito district to control mosquitoes through the use of mosquito fish and other means. Riparian restorations involve the planting of native vegetation including valley oak, cottonwood, willow, Oregon ash, box-elder, rose, elderberry, and native blackberry in appropriate areas.

A grazing program is used to manage the grasslands to promote native species and control exotics such as pepper grass and star thistle. Refuge staff and volunteers survey wildlife populations to monitor use by migratory and breeding birds. The rookery is also monitored for population trends and nesting success. Water quality and contaminants monitoring are also underway.