This refuge was established May 24, 1974. Formerly part of Fort Devens, this 711-acre refuge is composed of freshwater wetlands and associated uplands located along the floodplain of the Nashua River. Research on the State listed Blandings turtle is ongoing. The State listed climbing fern is also found here. There is an active beaver colony. The Refuge is managed primarily for migratory birds and woodcock. An additional 890 acres was to be added to the refuge due to the closure of Fort Devens. Public use activities include hiking, cross-country sking, small game hunting, canoeing and fishing.
This refuge is a non-staffed satellite of the Great Meadows NWR. For further information, go back to the listing on the Great Meadows NWR.