About Us
Tamarac Wetland Management District was established in 1987 and is responsible for administering a growing number of wetland conservation and Farmers Home Administration easements distributed throughout these five counties. There are currently 11,371 acres included in these conservation programs. An additional 3,600 wetland acres are under U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service perpetual wetland easements. In addition to easement enforcement and management activities, we also perform consultation roles for Farm Service Agency Farm Bill programs, restore grasslands and wetlands, establish young forest habitats and grazing projects on private lands and render technical assistance to landowners who desire to enhance wildlife habitat on their property. Because the district administers no land in fee title, we work directly with private landowners to restore, protect and enhance a diversity of wildlife.
The district consists of three habitat types: wetland, grass and forest habitat.
The marshes and wetlands of the Tamarac Wetland Management District are very diverse. Some are shallow and seasonal, while others are deeper and hold water year round. The wetlands sprinkled among the agricultural land are generally surrounded by grasses and shrubs. Wetlands in the forested areas can vary from a seasonal vernal pond to peat bogs among conifers.
The district reaches the eastern edge of the tall grass prairie and many of the wetland complexes are surrounded by grasslands of big bluestem, switch grass and other native plants. When wetlands are restored, so are the surrounding grasslands which includes seeding with a highly diverse mix of native grasses and forbs for the primary benefit of migratory birds.
Tamarac Wetland Management District is a picturesque canvas of a natural landscape transitioning from boreal peatlands to mixed forests of aspen, birch and pine. These forests are divided by a number of major rivers and a few lakes. Within the rolling hills are oak, red and sugar maple, basswood and other broadleaf trees. In some of the more northern reaches of the district, conifers cover the landscape.
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.
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. All activities allowed on refuges must be evaluated to make sure each activity will not conflict with the reason the refuge was founded.
The district will emphasize waterfowl production and ensure the preservation of habitat for migratory birds, threatened and endangered native species and resident wildlife.
Our Purpose
The purpose of Tamarac Wetland Management District is to serve as waterfowl production areas that are subject to all the provisions of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act.
Our History
March 16, 1934 - The Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act was created. Commonly referred to as the "Duck Stamp Act" this law requires each waterfowl hunter 16 years of age or older to possess a valid Federal hunting stamp. The receipts from the sale of the stamp are deposited in a special Treasury account known as the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund and are not subject to appropriations.
August 1, 1958 - Congress officially created the Small Wetland Acquisition Program by amending the 1934 Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act to allow proceeds from the sale of Federal Duck Stamps to be used to protect waterfowl habitat.
1987 - Tamarac Wetland Management District was established.
Other Facilities in this Complex
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge