Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge

Refuges use a wide range of land management tools based on the best science available. Refuge management can be divided into active management (physically altering habitat) or passive management (allowing nature to take its own course). The management tools used are aimed at ensuring a balanced conservation approach where both wildlife and people will benefit. At this field station our conservation toolbox includes:

Exotic and Invasive Plant Management

The refuge uses prescribed fire, mechanical equipment, and chemical methods to control and remove exotic and invasive plant species. The methods used depend on the plant species being controlled. Some plants require limited methods of control and others require a combination of all three methods. The ultimate goal is to control or remove exotic and invasive plant species to allow native species to regain the land.

Wetland and Moist Soil Management

Water levels are controlled manually to provide habitat for wintering waterfowl and migrating shorebirds, marsh and waterbirds. The timing and manipulation of water levels determines habitat and food availability for a variety of species.

Prescribed Fire Management

Prescribed fire is utilized as a management tool to restore and protect native habitats. The plant communities on the refuge are adapted to coexist with fire disturbances. Fire promotes the native mixed-grass prairie species and deters woody encroachment.

Farming for Wildlife

Farming provides supplemental food for a variety of wildlife species. It also acts to deter crop depredation on neighboring farm fields. Farming practices include cultivation, weed control, planting, and harvesting of remaining seed bank to use in the following year.

People Management

National wildlife refuges are where wildlife comes first. Every activity that people can participate in on the refuge has to be determined compatible with the reason the refuge was founded.