Silvio O. Conte Nat'l Fish & Wildlife Refuge

Strong emphasis on cooperative programs will allow the Service to fulfill the Act's mandate to protect fish and wildlife resources in the entire watershed. 462 species have been determined to be of concern. The refuge will protect the diversity of species by acquisition and cooperative management.

Attractions - Ten species within the watershed are currently federally-listed as endangered or threatened, with another 18 considered at risk of becoming endangered or threatened. Sixty-eight species have disappeared from the watershed relatively recently. Two hundred and ninety species are rare throughout the watershed. In addition, many species of migratory birds are experiencing declining populations. It is apparent that more habitat protection and management were necessary to stop the loss of natural diversity.

Recreation - There are many opportunities within a mile of the office including:

Nesting bald eagles may be observed at a nest overlooking the Connecticut River.
Birdwatching for waterfowl at a nearby cove on the Connecticut River.
Camping, boat rentals, and riverboat tours.
Public viewing of migrating fish at a fish ladder.
Tours of a fly rod factory.

Climate - Massachusetts experiences four distinct seasons with slightly varying temperatures in the inland and coastal regions. Along the coast the water is a moderating factor that often prevents large amounts of snowfall from accumulating through the winter. Summer temperatures are usually cooler than low lying inland areas, due to ocean breezes. This region of the country experiences high humidity in the summer season and temperatures that average close to 80 degrees F. Fall and Spring are pleasant times to visit the region with crisp air and low humidity. Brilliant foliage colors can be found in the central and western regions of the state in late September and October. Winter temperatures can be brutally cold on occasion with a humidity-filled wind, but on average winter daytime temperatures reach 35 degrees F and lows reach into the teens. Spring is usually the wettest time of year, but trees, bushes and flowers are blooming by early May.

Location - From east: Rt 2 west, cross Connecticut River at French King Bridge, next light go left, cross the bridge, third building on right.

From west: Rt 2 east to rotary in Greenfield, take Rt I91 north to exit 27, take Rt 2 east, go to the second light, turn right and cross the bridge, third building on the right.

From north or south: take exit 27, take Rt 2 east, go to the second light, turn right and cross the bridge, third building on the right.