The Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1949, and it is home to a complex series of ecosystems like freshwater marshes, desert shrublands, brackish water marshes, and alkali playas. The Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge provides diverse habitat to residential waterfowl and migratory birds that feed and rest in the beautiful wetlands that are surrounded by an arid desert climate. The refuge is almost 80,000 acres, that provides the public with not only gorgeous views, but also the opportunity for environmental education, recreational hunting and scientific research. 

            My role on the refuge falls under scientific research where I am aiding in investigating mercury contamination on the resident waterfowl within the wetland habitats. The refuge falls within the footprint of the Caron River Mercury Superfund Site, where legacy mercury contaminations from mining upstream in the 18^th century polluted the river system and caused the Environmental Protection Agency to clean up areas of the river that were contaminated. The Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge is irrigated from the Carson River system through a series of canals and delivery ditches, and the refuge has federal authority to purchase water rights from willing area landowners. The ability to buy water rights is critical in maintaining this arid desert wetland ecosystem.   

In my short time that I have been on the refuge I have been in awe and shock of the diversity of life in an arid desert landscape. Both the artificial and natural movement of water drives life and biodiversity within this ecosystem. Historical contamination threatens present day, and this refuge showcases how political, and environmental factors come together in order to maintain and conserve this wonderful and essential habitat. 

I am thankful to be here in person, and have the knowledge of the staff, and historical data to aid in this investigation. The Stillwater Refuge is a unique ecosystem hidden away in the desert, truly an oasis for not only the birds but for the general public as well. 

Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Program: US Fish & Wildlife Service - DFP

Location: Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge