Ouray National Wildlife Refuge

In 1960, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service began purchasing land for Ouray National Wildlife Refuge, using funds derived from the sale of duck stamps to hunters. The refuge inclueds 12 miles of the Green River and encompasses 11,482 acres of land. The Refuge offers food and shelter for a variety of wild birds and animals. The river is used by catfish suckers, beaver, muskrats, and waterfowl. Cottonwoods, willows and brush provide cover for rabits, raccoons, deer, bobcats, and porcupines. Raptors include bald and golden eagles, horned owls, and hawks.