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Public Use

Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge offers many opportunities for wildlife-dependent recreation and education. Trails and observation decks provide excellent vantage points for viewing birds and other wildlife. Fishing and hunting are allowed in some areas in cooperation with state natural resource agencies. Environmental education programs can be arranged for school groups.

When it passed the 1997 National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act, Congress established hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation as "priority public uses" where compatible with the mission and purpose of an individual refuge. These wildlife-dependent public uses are sometimes referred to as the "Big 6."

Not every division of Middle Mississippi River is open to all six of the priority public uses. The refuge manager uses sound professional judgment in determining compatible uses, and the Refuge System Improvement Act established a formal process for determining what uses are permitted.

We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the refuge. However, certain regulations are necessary to protect wildlife and preserve the beauty of the area. For more information on open areas, regulations, educational activities, and types of public use permitted on the refuge, contact us.

General Information

• Bicycling is allowed on Refuge roads unless otherwise posted.

• Pets must be on a leash except when used for the purpose of hunting where hunting is allowed.

• Berry and mushroom gathering are allowed for personal consumption only. These items shall not be used for any commercial use.

• Shed antler collecting is not allowed.

• Fires are prohibited on the refuge.

• Overnight mooring of boats is not allowed.

• Camping is not allowed.

• Other than licensed hunters engaged in hunting during the season, firearms are only allowed when in vehicles, unloaded, dismantled and cased.

• To help meet the primary Refuge purpose of providing migratory waterfowl with food, water, and protection, some refuge areas are closed to public use during fall migration.

Last updated: July 16, 2008

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