During a routine inspection in March 2024, Refuge staff observed erosion around the footings of the Duval Bridge. The level of erosion was significant enough that continued access posed an immediate threat to public safety, requiring closure of the bridge. Late winter and early spring creek flow from successive snowmelt and rain events unexpectedly scoured the bridge abutments, removing riprap and other engineered materials surrounding the support pilings.
We are actively working towards an engineering design and contract to repair the bridge. Completion of the repair is expected in summer 2025.
Visitors accessing Slippery Ann Elk Viewing Area and the Rock Creek boat ramp from US 191 should use the alternative route (map and flyer) until the bridge is repaired.
Visitors to the Refuge should be aware that the alternate route will add travel time. When traveling on the alternate route, please use caution and abide by posted speed limits. Expect heavier traffic during prime elk viewing hours. Stay alert for road conditions that include gravel, narrow sections, tight turns, steep inclines, and dust. Be sure to use headlights when driving in low light conditions.
We will keep the public informed with updates as we learn more.
Visit Us
Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge provides a rare opportunity to experience wild lands and wildlife in a natural setting and in nearly the same surroundings as encountered by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Many wildlife-oriented recreational opportunities are offered at Charles M. Russell Refuge, including hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking.
At the Fort Peck Interpretive Center, a cooperative effort between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, visitors can explore the wildlife of the Refuge as well as the rich history of the area, from dinosaurs to the building of the Fort Peck Dam.
Location and Contact Information
About Us
Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The refuge is one of over 560 refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System - a system of lands set aside to conserve wildlife and habitat for people today and generations to come. It is the second largest national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge
A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
Learn more about national wildlife refuge in the lower 48 states.
What We Do
The overall management goal at Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge is to promote biological diversity and maintain the natural abundance of native plants and wildlife. Science is the foundation upon which conservation decisions are made. Charles M. Russell Refuge uses research, monitoring and the best-available science to inform its work to conserve fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitat.
