The protection of native plant and animal communities and the preservation of the unique landforms found in the refuge are our foremost concerns, but, also important, is the sharing of this natural resource with our visitors. We maintain a trail system for public use and offer programs in nature study. The Sanctuary maintains a variety of natural habitats which, in turn, support an abundance of wildlife species. Nearly 40 acres of the Sanctuary's 450 acres are maintained as hay field. Old fields in various stages of re-growth make up a second major ecotype.
Woodlands are the most prominent plant community.
Four craggy ridges made of erosion-resistant rock break these woodlands into isolated valleys. Management efforts in the old field area are aimed at attempting to restore part of this area back into grasslands through bush-hogging and occasional, experimental, prescribed burns. Management efforts here are aimed at improving and reclaiming the grasslands from encroaching invasives. In addition to annual late-summer mowing, the Sanctuary is experimenting with a variety of mowing regimens as well as the use of prescribed fire. Future efforts may include the reintroduction of grazing livestock.