Colusa refuge gets makeover

Visitor facilities at the Colusa National Wildlife Refuge received a makeover this winter and officials expect local bird watchers will enjoy the changes.

Mike Peters, wildlife manager at the refuge, said the expansion and renovation of the observation deck is a major improvement. “The deck is accessible for people with disabilities as well,” Peters said.

Refuge staff and local Chamber of Commerce officials last week were joined by visitors from San Francisco, Sacramento, Colusa, Chico, Washington, and Canada in celebrating the opening of new visitor facilities. The improvements include a new observation deck, parking area, bathrooms, picnic tables, bridge widening, and walking trail enhancements.

Ernie Ambrosini, a local resident, and retired Fish and Wildlife Service equipment operator, cut the ribbon to officially open the area. Ambrosini worked at the refuge from 1960 until his retirement in 1991.

Saturday’s event was timed to coincide with the celebration of International Migratory Bird Day. “We are really excited to offer improved wildlife viewing opportunities for our visitors and local school groups,” Peters commented.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the principal federal agency responsible for conserving, protecting and enhancing fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The Service manages the 97-million-acre National Wildlife Refuge System, which encompasses 548 national wildlife refuges, thousands of small wetlands and other special management areas.

More information about National Wildlife Refuges in California is available on the web at http://www.fws.gov/cno/. The new wildlife refuge visitor facilities are open year-round. Visitation is free. For information, call 530-934-2801.