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Waterfowl hunting at sunset
Accepting Public Comments on Proposed Hunting and Fishing Program Changes

The FWS is seeking public review and comment on the proposed opening or expansion of hunting and/or fishing. The public is invited to review the draft documents, including draft plan(s), compatibility determination(s) as appropriate, and environmental compliance documentation. The draft documents are available through the Federal Register docket number: FWS–HQ–NWRS–2026–1223.

The comment period on the proposed hunting and sport fishing regulations across Service-managed lands and waters will stay open for 30-days from May 27 through June 26, 2026. Please submit your comments directly through the Federal Register. 

The comment period on the Environmental Assessment for actions at this field station will stay open for 30 days from May 27 through June 27, 2026. Please submit your comments via email to [email protected] with the name of the refuge or hatchery in the subject line.

The 24,149 acre Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge was established for the protection of migratory birds and other wildlife. It is located in Iowa and Illinois along the Mississippi River Flyway, one of the major routes for migrating waterfowl. Each year in the spring and fall hundreds, if not thousands, of geese and ducks utilize the refuge to rest and refuel on their migration. Common species include Canada geese, mallards, trumpeter swans, wood ducks, blue and green-winged teals, northern shovelers, hooded mergansers and other waterfowl. The river floodplains are important sites not only for migrating birds but year-round residents as well.

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National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. At Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities including wildlife observation, photography, hunting, fishing, paddling, biking, skiing, snowshoeing and mushroom and berry picking.

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      Our Species

      Weather you enjoy birding, watching mammals or looking for reptiles and amphibians you will enjoy a trip to Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge. This special place is home to more than 270 species of birds, 35 species of amphibians, 60 species of reptiles, 100 species of fishes, 50 species of mammals and hundreds, if not thousands, of species of plants, fungi and insects.