Habitats on these areas include moist soil units, semi and permanent marshes, bottomland hardwood forests and native grasslands. The pumping station allows for water management capabilities on all moist soil units and semipermanent marshes and green tree reservoirs. Clarence Cannon NWR is managed by the Annada District of the Mark Twain NWR . The refuge is open daylight hours year-round except during periods of flooding. Up to five miles of gravels roads are open to travel.
Wildlife observation is the main public use activity.
Waterfowl concentrations are highest in late March and April and again in late October and November. Bald eagles are also commonly seen on the refuge at these times. A bald eagle nest may also be senn on the refuge. Young eagles usually hatch by late March and fledge in early June. During the spring and summer a variety of shorebirds, marsh and wading birds can be seen.