Directions: On US 95, N of Bonners Ferry, turn W on Riverside Ave (District 15/CR 18) (this rd is just south of the bridge crossing the Kootenai River); follow W 7 mi to West Side Rd; R (N) on West Side Rd for 1.5 mi to Kootenai NWR HQ.

Description: This 2,774 acre refuge is nestled between the foot hills of the scenic Selkirk Mountains and quiet running waters of the Kootenai River. The Refuge provides important habitat and a resting area for waterfowl, other migratory birds, and native wildlife. The Refuge is comprised of a wide variety of habitat types. Wetlands, meadows, riparian forests and cultivated agricultural fields (for producing valuable wildlife food crops) are interspersed in the valley bottom adjacent to the west banks of the Kootenai River. Wetlands include open-water ponds, seasonal cattail-bulrush marshes, tree-lined ponds, dense stands of coniferous trees, and tranquil riparian forests. The refuge not only serves as valuable habitat for resident and migratory wildlife, but provides a nice stopping point for visitors to get out and enjoy some of the vast natural beauty Boundary County has to offer. Approximately 220 species of birds can be seen on the refuge. Waterfowl migration in the spring and fall can peak to 40,000 birds. Mallard, Tundra Swan, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Green-winged and Cinnamon Teal, Common Goldeneye, Northern Pintail, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Ring-necked Duck, and American Wigeon can commonly be found during this time. Black Tern, grebes, and Bald Eagle nest within the NWR. Rough-legged Hawk present Nov-March.

More Information:
USFWS (208) 267-3888
Bonners Ferry Chamber of Commerce (208)267-5922
www.fws.gov/kootenai/