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Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge

Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge

Introduction: 

Just a few short miles from the center of Oregon's largest city, the honking of geese replaces the honking of cars. This special place is a refuge, a haven for wildlife and people. Born of a community's dream, and made possible by their support, a wildlife refuge now thrives in the backyard of a growing metropolis.

Located on the outskirts of Portland, Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is one of only a handful of urban national wildlife refuges in the country. Situated within the floodplain of the Tualatin River, the Refuge comprises less than 1% of the 712 square mile watershed. Yet, due to it's richness and diversity of habitats, the Refuge supports some of the most abundant and varied wildlife in the watershed.

The Refuge is now home to nearly 200 species of birds, over 50 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles and amphibians, and a wide variety of insects, fish and plants. The Refuge has also become a place where people can experience and learn about wildlife and the places they call home.

Mission Statement: 

To administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management and where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

Purpose or Program Objectives: 

The vision of the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is to support a restored and managed mosaic of historically significant landscapes and habitats representative of the Tualatin River basin, benefiting migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife and serving as a model promoting watershed health and function and providing opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy and learn about the wonders and interactions of nature and their role in the environment.

Address: 
19255 SW Pacific Hwy
Sherwood, OR, 97140
United States
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Address
Send email
Phone: 
(503) 625-5944
Website: 
http://www.fws.gov/tualatinriver/
Primary Contact
Sarah Gray
Send email
(503) 625-5944 x234
Executive Director or Organization Head

No individual listed

  • Open Your Eyes to Wildlife
    Lesson Plan/Activity
    Kindergarten, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
  • Teacher Workshops
    Professional Development/Workshops/Conferences
    Professional/Technical

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No events currently listed.

Wildlife Center
Address: 
19255 SW Pacific Hwy
Sherwood, OR, 97140
United States
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Description: 

Opened in 2008, the Wildlife Center serves as a gathering place and launching point for visitors, organized groups, and Refuge programs. The Wildlife Center is also home to the exhibit hall, Nature’s Overlook (the Friends of the Refuge nature store), and indoor and outdoor viewing platforms. This lively building is staffed entirely by volunteers, who are often the first faces visitors see when they arrive at the Refuge.

Programs offered and features: 

Seasonal environmental educations programs for children and families happen consistently. Check our website for details. http://www.fws.gov/tualatinriver/specialevents.html

Days & Hours of Operation: 

Refuge trails are open from dawn to dusk 365 days a year. The Wildlife Center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. -- 4:00 p.m and closed on Mondays. Weekend hours are extended to 10:00 a.m. -- 5:00 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Coming during the holidays? See schedule below or call 503-625-5945 for holiday hours. Occasional severe winter weather keeps our volunteers at home, so call ahead if in doubt.

Service Area for Center: 
Statewide (all)
Wheelchair Accessible: 
Yes

Information in this directory may have changed. Contact the individual organization for the most current information