Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge

Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge was established June 12, 1939 by Franklin D. Roosevelt through Executive Order. The Refuge was created as a breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife. Other Refuge purposes include fish and wildlife-oriented recreation, environmental education, interpretation, conservation of endangered species, and protection of cultural and natural resources. Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge has 4,033 acres of wetlands, native prairie, and planted grasslands.

Lake Ilo and smaller wetlands are the main attraction for wildlife to this Refuge. Lake Ilo is 1,240 acres with a maximum depth of 15 feet. A 145-acre marsh, Lee Paul Slough, is attached to Lake Ilo by a canal. The slough provides a location to view marsh animals and plants. Another two dozen smaller wetlands make up the remaining Refuge wetland habitat. Waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife species find the wetlands attractive as summer breeding habitat and as a spring and fall migration stop. Water development and management has made Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge a very important resource for wildlife and people.