The permanent freshwater wetland around the Visitor Center and visitor parking lot was first created in 1970 by manipulating the flow of water from artesian wells inside the Brown Farm dike. The plants and animals in the permanent freshwater wetland are adapted to constant contact with freshwater in the form of shallow and deep pools and ponds. Refuge staff continues to restore this wetland by planting native species and removing invasive plants.
Over 75% of freshwater wetlands in the Puget Sound have been dredged, filled or diked. The Refuge’s freshwater wetlands provide important habitat to replace that which has been lost elsewhere.
Birds: Mallard, Marsh Wren, American Bittern, Wood Duck, Ring-necked Duck, Red-winged Blackbird, Hooded Merganser.
Animals: Mink, Beaver, Black-talked Deer, Red-legged Frog, Pacific Tree Frog, Bullfrog.
Plants: Cattail, Reed Canarygrass, Duckweed, Pacific Willow, Bittersweet Nightshade, Stinging Nettle, Red Elderberry.
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The reclusive American Bittern is a master of disguise. When it feels threatened, it stretches its neck and all but disappears among the reeds.