The refuge was established as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife.
Resident wildlife includes raptors and gray partridge.
Visitor Opportunities Recreational opportunities boating, hunting. There is no legal access to the refuge for the public. The refuge is open to waterfowl hunting, but permission for access would have to be obtained from the private landowner. The service has some legal responsibility for managing Thibadeau Diversion Dam and maintaining the water control structures on it and on Lake Thibadeau. The large proportion of cultivated private land, however, precludes any active management.