Malheur National Wildlife Refuge will begin an infrastructure improvement project at Wright’s Pond in early January, replacing aging pipes and water control structures that are critical for managing water across Refuge wetlands.
To support construction, the northern portion of the Auto Tour Route (CPR) will be temporarily closed for the first two weeks of January, weather permitting. Access to the Auto Tour Route from the Malheur Field Station will remain open. Visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly, and Refuge staff appreciate the public’s patience during this short-term closure.
The Wright’s Pond project continues restoration work initiated during the ‘Unit 7 Project’ completed in summer 2025, which rehabilitated multiple dikes and ditches within the Refuge’s water delivery system. That effort addressed infrastructure that had been compromised by erosion, heavy vegetation growth, and silt accumulation which were all conditions that reduced water flow and increased the risk of damage during high runoff events.
Replacing pipes and modernizing water control structures at Wright’s Pond will improve the Refuge’s ability to manage seasonal water levels, ensuring wetlands can be flooded and drawn down as needed to support wildlife while protecting canals and levees. Effective water management is essential for maintaining healthy wetland conditions throughout the year.
Together, the Wright’s Pond and Unit 7 projects will restore and enhance more than 5,000 acres of wildlife habitat. These improvements support Malheur’s role as one of the most productive waterfowl breeding areas in the United States and a critical stopover site along the Pacific Flyway, where hundreds of thousands of birds depend on high-quality wetlands during migration.
Although construction may temporarily affect access for some visitors, the long-term benefits are substantial. Strengthening water infrastructure helps the Refuge respond to changing environmental conditions while ensuring reliable habitat for wildlife well into the future.
Refuge staff thank visitors for their understanding and encourage the public to check for updates before visiting during the construction period.
