With 1837 acres of open water, marsh, and grasslands, the refuge is an important resting and feeding area for thousands of Canada geese and ducks during the fall.
Pheasants are also common.
Recreation and education opportunities include wildlife observation, study, and photography, plus waterfowl hunting, fishing, and boating. The refuge is superimposed on a Bureau of Reclamation reservoir and is located by driving 5 miles south from Pendleton on Hwy 395, then left at the refuge sign.