Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge

Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN category IV (habitat/species management area)
Map showing the location of Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge
Map showing the location of Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge
LocationBurke / Ward counties, North Dakota, USA
Nearest cityKenmare, ND
Coordinates48°50′34″N 102°05′45″W / 48.84278°N 102.09583°W / 48.84278; -102.09583
Area19,500 acres (79 km2)
Established1935
Governing bodyU.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
WebsiteDes Lacs National Wildlife Refuge

The Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge is located in the U.S. state of North Dakota and extends from the Canada–United States border to near the town of Kenmare, North Dakota along Des Lacs Lake. The refuge was established in 1935 and includes 19,500 acres (78.9 km2). The refuge is considered to be one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the U.S., with tens of thousands of birds using the refuge for migration and breeding. The refuge is also home to elk, moose, bison and pronghorn.