News Release

Pressure from Agriculture, Development Threatens Globally Important Waterfowl Breeding Region

According to a new report, wetlands in the Prairie Pothole Region declined by an estimated 74,340 acres between 1997 and 2009 – an average annual net loss of 6,200 acres.

About the Complex

Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge Complex

The Complex is responsible for the management of all National Wildlife Refuge System lands in nine counties in east central North Dakota.

Chase Lake is managed as part of the Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America’s fish, wildlife, and plants.

Prairies Conservation Campaign

• Why the Prairies Matter

  

  The Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) is arguably one of the most important wetland regions in the world. The PPR portions of North and South Dakota alone contain more than 19 million acres of grassland, including millions of temporary, seasonal and permanent wetlands. More than 50% of North American migratory waterfowl depend on its mix of wetlands and grasslands. This area is called the “duck factory” because it is the most productive area for nesting waterfowl on the continent.

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• Federal Duck Stamps

  

  Federal Duck Stamps are vital tools for wetland conservation. Ninety-eight cents out of every dollar generated by the sale of Federal Duck Stamps goes directly to purchase or lease wetland habitat for protection in the National Wildlife Refuge System.

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