The spring-fed pond lies on a narrow plain just above sea level at the foot of volcanic hills.

Kamehameha V Highway (State Route 450) bisects the southern part of the refuge, allowing access to the coastal portion managed as a park by the County of Maui.

[3] Migratory ducks, and shorebirds, as well as invasive mammals such as feral cats, dogs, mongooses, and axis deer, are also present on the refuge.

The Pacific golden plover is the most common shorebird with the winter months hosting northern pintails.

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service controls predators and water levels, especially during nesting season.