Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), located 10 minutes from downtown Denver, is nearly 17,000 acres, making it one of the largest urban wildlife refuges in the United States. It consists of open lakes, wetlands, prairie grasslands, and woodlands. Due to its proximity to Denver, one of the Refuge's primary goals is to provide environmental education programs for urban school children. Each year, thousands of visitors come to the Refuge to appreciate its wildlife, view the scenic habitat, and learn about native prairie species. The Arsenal has been called "a significant habitat island for wildlife" and "a place to renew the relationship with nature." Popular activities include interpretative programs, environmental education, fishing, wildlife observation, and photography.