It was established in 1931 as a refuge and breeding ground for birds and other wild animals.

The refuge comprises over 15,000 acres (6,100 ha) of playa and wetland habitat in the Carson Sink.

In years of high water flows down the river, the refuge is important for migratory shorebirds and waterfowl.

However, due to diversions, in most years there is not enough flow for the river to even reach the refuge lands.

This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.