About Us

Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge is the largest and most intact wapato and rush marsh remaining on the lower Columbia River and was established in 1990 to preserve biodiversity. Franz and Arthur lakes provide critical habitat for wintering tundra swans and other waterfowl. Several springs and seeps on the refuge have been identified as important brood and rearing areas for juvenile salmon. 

Staff and partners work to maintain and monitor these rare wetland and forested habitats. Knowledge gained through this research will contribute to the understanding to how the lower Columbia River floodplain can be managed. In keeping with this research and monitoring emphasis, human disturbance is kept to a minimum. 

Our Mission

The mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System is to administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management and, where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge Vision

Franz Lake Refuge is the largest and most intact wapato, spikerush and bulrush marsh remaining on the lower Columbia River. Dynamic riverine processes will continue to be the dominant force shaping the wetlands. Management practices will be directed at maintaining and monitoring these processes. Knowledge gained through research and monitoring will contribute to our understanding of how the lower Columbia River floodplain can be managed to protect, restore and enhance native habitats and species. In keeping with this research and monitoring emphasis, human disturbances will be held to a minimum. The Refuge will, however, provide unique opportunities to observe and learn about its valuable resources from designated viewing sites. (CCP CH1, 1-18) 

Other Facilities in this Complex

The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Complex is comprised of four refuges along the lower Columbia River.

View from the top of Beacon Rock looking east over Pierce NWR and down the Columbia River
Pierce National Wildlife Refuge
Located 36 miles east of Vancouver, just past Beacon Rock State Park, the refuge is a rare undisturbed sanctuary for wildlife in the highly visited Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. The Refuge offers larger species like Roosevelt Elk and black bear, and threatened and endangered species such as...
National Wildlife Refuge
WA
A glowing sky is reflected in Lake River that has fall vegetation along it
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
Located just north of Vancouver, Washington, the refuge is a unique retreat to nature nestled between the Columbia River and the town of Ridgefield.
National Wildlife Refuge
Ridgefield,WA
Looking west from the far end of the Franz Lake overlook with green vegetation, views of the lake and Oregon across the Columbia river in the background.
Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Located just 31 miles east of Vancouver Washington, the refuge is known for its seasonal abundance of tundra swans, and offers local communities and travelers the opportunity to view nature from the convenience of an overlook off of State Route 14.
National Wildlife Refuge
WA