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Description:
The Willamette Valley was once a rich mix of wildlife habitats. Valley wetlands were once extensive, with meandering stream channels and vast seasonal marshes. Today, the valley is a mix of farmland and growing cities, with fewer areas remaining for wildlife. Baskett Slough NWR's was created to provide vital wintering habitat for dusky Canada geese. Unlike other Canada geese, duskies have limited summer and winter ranges. They nest on Alaska's Copper River Delta and winter almost exclusively in the Willamette Valley. Habitat loss, predation, and hunting have caused a decrease in population. The refuge's irrigated farmed fields, rolling oak-covered hills, grass fields, and shallow wetlands are home to many wildlife species.Baskett Slough NWR is the most northerly of the three Willamette Valley refuges. Dusky Canada geese usually appear here first in the fall and use the refuge as their last stop before starting the spring journey back to their Alaska nesting grounds.Several species of waterfowl, herons, hawks, quail, shorebirds, woodpeckers, and a variety of neotropical birds also frequent the area. A small number of bald eagles winter on the refuge and can often be seen harassing wintering waterfowl. Other wildlife includes 30 species of mammals, 8 species of amphibians, and 10 species of reptiles. The largest remaining population of Fender's blue butterfly is found on the refuge.Named after George J. Baskett, an early breeder of valley thoroughbred horses, the refuge offers opportunities for compatible wildlife-oriented education and recreation. Directions:
On Interstate 5, take exit 253, and proceed west through Salem, toward Dallas, Oregon. Travel west on Hwy. 22 from the intersection of highways 22 and 99W, north of Rickreal, Oregon. Proceed about 2 miles and watch for the information and wildlife viewing area on the right.
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