One of the major hubs for Western migratory birds lies on the edge of the Great Salt Lake in Utah. Here the Bear River forms a vast delta of meandering channels, sloughs and wetlands. The marshes here host more than 200 species and millions of birds each year that come to rest, feed and rear their young at this oasis in the desert.

Set aside for the public in 1929 as the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, this area encompasses more than 74,000 acres. Western Rivers Conservancy is working to permanently protect critical parts of this nationally significant wetland complex. We have several opportunities to add lands to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, expanding critical habitat.

In April 2010, WRC committed to purchase a 580-acre private property within the refuge boundary and just down the road from the beautiful James V. Hansen Wildlife Education Center. This is the second ownership we will purchase. In 2009, we began acquiring a 696-acre property also near the entrance to the refuge. The lands will be conveyed to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which operates the refuge.

James V. Hansen, for whom the wildlife center is named, is a retired Utah congressman who grew up visiting the refuge. During his years in Congress, Rep. Hansen was a strong supporter of the refuge. “For those like me who cherish the Bear River Refuge, Western Rivers Conservancy’s acquisitions will complete a long-held vision to enhance one of the showplaces of the nations for birds,” he said.

Photo by Kris Lander