The Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a vital sanctuary in the Great Lakes Basin, is a fascinating blend of history, ecology, and conservation. Established in 1912, this refuge encompasses several islands located in Lake Michigan, straddling Wisconsin’s Door County Peninsula and Michigan’s Garden Peninsula. This unique geography creates a series of ecologically significant habitats supporting diverse plant and animal species.
Islands of Ecological Significance
Hog Island
Hog Island, the oldest part of the refuge, was designated in 1912 to protect critical nesting habitats for birds threatened by the plume trade and market hunting. It remains a haven for herons and egrets, who return annually to breed in this undisturbed environment. The island is part of the Wisconsin Islands Wilderness Area, which emphasizes minimal human interference to preserve its pristine condition.
Plum and Pilot Islands
Acquired from the U.S. Coast Guard in 2007, Plum and Pilot Islands play crucial roles in protecting migratory bird habitats. Plum Island, open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day, offers rare forest and coastal habitats and historic U.S. Coast Guard structures. In contrast, Pilot Island remains closed to the public to ensure the protection of its sensitive bird populations.
Rocky Island
Rocky Island, donated by The Nature Conservancy, joined the refuge in 2014. This 10-acre island near Michigan’s Garden Peninsula is crucial for the conservation of native bird species and other wildlife. Due to its ecological sensitivity, it is closed to public access.
St. Martin Island
Added to the refuge in 2015, St. Martin Island is notable for its significant bluffs and diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and cobblestone beaches. The island supports various endangered plant species and is part of the Niagara Escarpment. Public access is restricted to protect these critical habitats.
Detroit Island
The Detroit Island Unit, acquired in 2019, is a 148-acre parcel open to the public during daylight hours from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It also supports recreational activities such as deer hunting during designated seasons.
Conservation Efforts and Research
The refuge is managed by the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Conservation efforts focus on protecting native and migratory bird habitats, controlling invasive species, and preserving historic sites. The islands offer unique opportunities for research on waterbird population dynamics and the impacts of minimal human disturbance on natural ecosystems.
Historic preservation is also a key component of the refuge’s mission, particularly on Plum and Pilot Islands, where former U.S. Coast Guard structures are maintained in collaboration with the Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands.
Visiting the Refuge
While some islands like Plum and Detroit are accessible for specific periods, others remain off-limits to safeguard their ecological integrity. Visitors to the open islands can enjoy activities like bird watching, boating, and exploring historical sites.
The Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge exemplifies the balance between conservation and public engagement, ensuring that these unique island ecosystems continue to thrive for future generations.
For more information on visiting and supporting the refuge, you can contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or visit their website.
