Optima Dam was completed in 1978 but the impoundment never reached expected levels. To date the lake has never risen enough to flood any of the refuge lands. The intended purpose of the refuge was to provide migration and wintering habitat for the shortgrass prairie population of Canada geese and the high plains population of mallards, but the lack of water has reduced the potential for waterfowl management. The refuge does, however, provide an island of prime habitat for resident species such as white-tailed deer, coyotes, Rio Grande turkeys, quail, and many others. Because of its important habitats, Optima is a migratory stopover and summer home to many species of songbirds and raptors.
Raptors are common year-round.
During the spring and summer months, common species include turkey vulture, Mississippi kite, American kestrel, red-tailed hawk, marsh hawk, Swainson's hawk, and ferruginous hawk. Species common in the fall and winter months are bald and golden eagles, prairie falcon, rough-legged hawk, and Cooper's hawk. Resident game birds include the Rio Grande turkey, ring-necked pheasant, bobwhite quail, and scaled quail. Reptiles include the prairie rattlesnake and the Texas horned lizard, commonly called the horned toad. Recreational Opportunities Recreational activities allowed include wildlife observation and archery deer, turkey, dove, and upland game hunting.