Established in 1990 by Public Law 101-593, the refuge straddles nine miles (14 km) of the Wallkill River at and just south of the New York-New Jersey border.

The refuge has more than 5,100 acres (21 km2) of land and is managed primarily for conservation of wetlands, including habitat for migratory birds and the endangered bog turtle.

Where compatible, the refuge offers outdoor recreation opportunities including hunting, fishing, interpretation, environmental education, photography, wildlife viewing, hiking, canoeing and cross-country skiing.

Wood ducks, canvasbacks, mergansers, mallards and many other species frequent the refuge during spring and fall migrations.

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