The lack of other local wetland habitats elevates the importance of this refuge as a home to a variety of wildlife and plant species in an arid environment.

During late summer, exposed mud flats provide a source of food for migrating shorebirds.

Because it is situated five miles south of the city of Pendleton, the refuge receives almost 50,000 annual visitors, most during the summer months.

Upland bird hunting remains popular, with as many as 500 hunters each year pursuing pheasant and quail.

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