The 30,700 acre refuge was established in 1965 at the urging of local conservationists and hunters interested in restoring the wildlife values of the St. Francis River Basin. Following that, the refuge became and remains the largest public land holding in Sherburne County. The refuge is now a wild remnant at the meeting of the western prairies and the northern woods, with oak savanna, prairie opening, forest, wetland and riverine habitats.

Where volunteer opportunities are available: Zimmerman
Volunteers are required to: Attend an Orientation, Complete an Application
Sentence to Serve/Community Service volunteers accepted: Yes
One time volunteers accepted: Yes
Age Restrictions: Yes, Many volunteer opportunities are available for 18+ only. There are some opportunities for minors but they must be accompanied by an adult while volunteering and they require a signature from a guardian on their application.