About Us
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1946 to provide habitat for migratory birds, wildlife, and plants native to the area. The 11,320-acre refuge is an overlay of the Big Mineral Arm of Lake Texoma. Shallow marshes, creeks, bottomland hardwoods, forested uplands and grasslands, and managed farm fields provide habitat for more than 300 species of birds and many varieties of wildlife. Western areas of the refuge are within the unique Cross Timbers Ecoregion which features stunted, gnarly-shaped post oak and blackjack oak trees that are much older than they appear.
Around 230,000 visitors annually come to the refuge for wildlife observation, photography, hiking, fishing, hunting, and interpretive and educational programs.
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.
Our Purpose
Every 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 was created for a special purpose. Some were created to protect migratory birds, others to protect threatened or endangered species or unique habitats, while others fulfill another special purpose. Refuges are special places where wildlife comes first. All activities allowed on refuges must be evaluated to make sure they do not conflict with the reason the refuge was established.
The purpose of Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge is to serve as a refuge and breeding grounds for migratory birds and other wildlife. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employees and volunteers strive to actively manage all habitat types to help achieve this purpose.
Our History
1880 – A town named Steedman was established and granted a post office on lands that are now a part of Lake Texoma and lie within the refuge boundary.
1909 – The name of the town was changed from Steedman to Hagerman to honor railroad attorney James Hagerman who was instrumental in having the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railroad pass through the community.
February 9, 1946 – The refuge was established by Public Land Order 314 as an overlay of lands purchased by the Department of Defense for the Denison Dam Project.
Other Facilities in this Complex
The Nocona Unit of Hagerman National Wildlife consists of 822-acres located in Montague County approximately 75 miles west of Sherman. This unit is managed by staff from the primary unit near Sherman with partner staff from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Montague County staff.