Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge spans 24,000 acres of restored prairie-wetland ecosystem, containing numerous small wetlands surrounded by upland prairies and woodland savannas.

The Nature Conservancy initiated the restoration project in 2000, transforming 3,000 acres of native prairie into what became the largest prairie-wetland restoration in United States history.

The refuge provides environmental education programs for 400 students annually, teaching the importance of prairie conservation and ecological restoration.

Located six miles west of Mentor and twelve miles east of Crookston, the refuge permits hunting activities within designated boundaries.

The restoration process involved filling 103 miles of drainage ditches, resulting in the creation of over 200 wetlands that support diverse migratory bird populations.

Location: Polk County

Inception: 2004

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/glacial_ridge

GPS coordinates: 47.70000,-96.35000

Latest update: March 2, 2025 23:10