Innoko National Wildlife Refuge

Innoko National Wildlife Refuge is a large protected area in central-western Alaska covering extensive wetlands and river floodplain complexes that provide breeding habitat for waterfowl and other migratory birds. The refuge area spans on the order of millions of acres and is managed for wildlife conservation and subsistence use by local communities.

Key natural values include seasonally flooded lowlands, wet tundra, and boreal forest that support breeding populations of ducks, geese, and a variety of passerines, as well as mammals such as moose and bears. The landscape is largely roadless and supports traditional subsistence activities by local Alaskan communities.

The refuge was designated under federal conservation measures for Alaska to protect critical habitat and migratory bird resources. Management emphasizes habitat protection, research, and cooperation with local residents.

Geographically the refuge lies in central-western Alaska, inland from the Bering Sea coast and encompassing portions of the Innoko River basin. Access is predominantly by floatplane, small aircraft, or river craft depending on season.

• Size: Covers roughly 3.85 million acres (about 1.56 million hectares) of wetlands, river floodplains, and boreal forest and is one of the largest wildlife refuges in the United States.
• Access and timing: Best visited in summer when migratory waterfowl and shorebirds are most abundant; access is generally by small aircraft or boat and there are no road connections through much of the refuge.