Pretty Rock National Wildlife Refuge

The Pretty Rock National Wildlife Refuge spans 800 acres of protected land south of New Leipzig, providing habitat for migratory birds and local wildlife species.

Franklin D. Roosevelt established Pretty Rock National Wildlife Refuge through Executive Order 8659 in February 1941 to protect migratory birds and create breeding grounds.

The refuge exemplifies cooperation between private landowners and government agencies, demonstrating the effectiveness of conservation easement models in wildlife protection.

Access to Pretty Rock National Wildlife Refuge requires permission from private landowners, as the protected area operates under a limited-interest management system.

The refuge recorded notable sightings in 2002 when seven whooping cranes, including six adults and one juvenile, used the area as a temporary resting location.

Location: Grant County

GPS coordinates: 46.25810,-101.94700

Latest update: March 3, 2025 00:18