Willapa National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1937 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to protect migrating birds and their habitat at a time when many estuaries and shallow water bays were being destroyed in the name of progress. The refuge has grown to encompass diverse ecosystems including salt marsh, muddy tidelands, forest, freshwater wetlands, streams, grasslands, coastal dunes and beaches and a home for birds, fish, Roosevelt elk and other wildlife. The Refuge is open year-round for visitors to hike, view wildlife and enjoy this beautiful environment.