Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge

The Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge was established in 2000. After the Great Flood of 1993, the federal government purchased 4,075 acres of flood-prone land. The Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge was created as a means to provide food and shelter to migratory and wintering birds as well as restore their fish and wildlife habitats.

The refuge consists of three divisions: Harlow Island, Meissner Island, and Wilkinson Island. Harlow Island consists of 1,224 acres and is located on the Mississippi River near Festus, Missouri. This division is closed to public use. Meissner Island covers 78 acres and is located in Monroe County near Valmeyer, Illinois. Meissner Island does not permit public fishing or hunting. Wilkinson Island is the largest division with 2,770 acres. It is located near Gorham, Illinois in Jackson County. Wilkinson Island is open during daylight hours and open to the public for fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation.

For more information about Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge, call or write:

Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge
8588 Route 148
Marion, IL 62959
(618) 997-334

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