Research animals check out a new fence at the Kenai Moose Research Center

Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game have held a long-term partnership at the Kenai Moose Research Center, located on the Refuge.  The Center raises moose and conducts a variety of non-invasive studies on them to better understand moose nutrition needs, antler growth, calf survival, and other topics to help the Refuge manage best for moose. The one-of-a-kind research facility has been in operation for decades and the fences, cabins, and research facilities were in bad need of repairs.  Refuge crews and contractors worked to complete fencing upgrades, a new metal pole barn to replace a rotting wooden storage building, and general clean-up and condition assessment for all remaining facilities.  Fencing improvements help protect the moose from predators getting into the pens, and ultimately protect the predators as well as they are often destroyed if they are able to get inside the research areas.  Work is expected to continue in 2007 with improvements to the access road, development of a structure to evaluate moose - road crossing options, and additional fencing projects.