Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge

The Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1935 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt for the primary purpose of protecting migratory birds, while also creating a refuge for local wildlife. The Refuge encompasses land along the Des Lacs River from the Canadian border to a point 8 miles south of Kenmare, North Dakota.

This area, according to ethnographic accounts, was used for trade routes and hunting by the Assiniboine, Sioux, Mandan, Hidatsa, Plains Ojibwa, and Atsina peoples. Historical records indicate that the last native inhabitants of the Des Lacs River valley were the southern Assiniboine tribes, who now reside in Canada.

A mix of natural lakes and managed wetlands in the valley provide a haven for migrating and nesting waterfowl and marsh birds. Spring visitors can enjoy the courtship dance of western grebes. Four other species of grebes also nest on the Refuge. During the summer, American White Pelicans are easy to spot as they feed on small fish. Broods of ducklings of various ages paddle through the marshes. Giant Canada geese commonly nest on the Refuge, producing between 150 and 200 young annually.