Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, National wildlife refuge in Thurston and Pierce counties, Washington, United States
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a nature reserve at the mouth of the Nisqually River where freshwater meets Puget Sound. The landscape includes salt marshes, tidal flats, and reeds that support hundreds of bird species and marine animals.
The refuge was created in January 1974 after the purchase of a large farm, following a campaign that blocked a planned port in the Nisqually basin. In 2015, President Barack Obama signed the Billy Frank Jr. Tell Your Story Act, renaming it for the Nisqually leader and treaty-rights activist arrested about 50 times during protests. The same law established the Medicine Creek Treaty National Memorial at the Treaty Tree, reachable only by boat up McAllister Creek.
The refuge honors a Nisqually tribal leader and environmental advocate who fought for indigenous fishing rights in this region. Visitors can learn about the deep connection between Native peoples and this river valley through exhibits at the center.
The refuge has trails and a boardwalk over the tidal flats that are accessible daily from sunrise to sunset. Bring layers and be prepared for changing coastal weather conditions.
A boardwalk extends over the tidal flats, bringing visitors close to harbor seals that rest on the salt marshes. The walk also offers views of Mount Rainier rising above the flat landscape.
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