Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1996 to conserve and protect fish and wildlife resources, including endangered and threatened species and wetlands. Refuge habitats include freshwater tidal marsh, forested swamp, upland deciduous forest, mixed pine forest, and managed grasslands.  The refuge is composed of multiple pieces of land and water spanning Essex, King George, Caroline, Richmond, and Westmoreland counties. Our goal is to protect 20,000 acres of important wildlife habitats along the Rappahannock River and its major tributaries. Our partners and volunteers help us manage the refuge’s lands and waters for wildlife and visitors. As the refuge continues to grow and change over time, so will the opportunities for you to enjoy the refuge! In 2007, areas of the refuge were designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA). The National Audubon Society designates these areas based on criteria such as population, high concentration in a limited area, or other factors. The IBA designation coincides with areas of high bald eagle concentration.