History
Stillwater NWR was established by Congress to conserve and manage wildlife and their habitats. The refuge is part of a Complex, which includes Anaho Island NWR located in Pyramid Lake northeast of Reno NV; and Fallon NWR north of Fallon NV. The refuge is irrigated with water from the Carson River, which flows through a series of canals, ditches and sloughs from April to October. The Carson River no longer flows freely to the refuge due to agriculture diversions and flood control measures, many in place since 1903. The refuge is recognised by the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network as a Hemispheric Reserve, and by the Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area.
Specialties
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge is open to the public every day; the refuge is about 18 miles east of Fallon, NV where the staffed office is located. The refuge is accessed off St. Rt. 116 east of town, and then graded dirt roads weave through a variety of desert habitat. The refuge is located in the midst of the Lahontan Valley Wetlands, known for the thousands of shorebirds and waterfowl migrating through each Spring and Fall. The refuge permits wildlife viewing and photography, waterfowl hunting, environmental education and interpretation. There are 3 walk paths with interpretive signs, benches, restrooms, literature located at: Stillwater Point Reservoir, Tule Trail, and Foxtail Lake/Paiute Path. Hunting is only allowed north of Division Road, following state regulations and seasons.