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PARKS
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Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge
The 3750 acre Clarence Cannon NWR is adjacent to the Mississippi River and although it is protected by a levee, the area does provide flood storage in periods of high water. Habitats on these areas include moist soil units, semi and permanent marshes, bottomland hardwood forests and native grasslands. The pumping station allows for water management capabilities on all moist soil units and semipermanent marshes and green tree reservoirs. These areas are very important to a variety of migratory birds including numerous ducks, geese, shorebirds, marsh and wading birds and songbirds (neotropical and North American migrants and resident species). The diverse area also provides habitats for a variety of endangered and threatened species (and species of concern) including the bald eagle and king rail (state endangered). Clarence Cannon NWR is managed by the Annada District of the Mark Twain NWR.
Visitor Opportunities
The refuge is open daylight hours year-round except during periods of flooding. Up to five miles of gravels roads are open to travel. Wildlife observation is the main public use activity. Waterfowl concentrations are highest in late March and April and again in late October and November. Bald eagles are also commonly seen on the refuge at these times. A bald eagle nest may also be senn on the refuge. Young eagles usually hatch by late March and fledge in early June. During the spring and summer a variety of shorebirds, marsh and wading birds can be seen. The State Endangered King Rail nests on the refuge but because of its secretive nature is not commonly seen. The refuge office is open to visitors from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Management Programs
The primary refuge management program is directed towards 2200 acres of seasonal wetlands (moist-soil units), semi-permanent and permanent marshes. A diverse program of water level and vegetation manipulations provides a wide variety of habitats. These high quality habitats are used in different seasons by migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, and by nesting marsh and wading birds. Vegetation is controlled and manipulated by burning, discing, farming or mowing.
Directions and Additional Information
From St. Louis take I-70 west to Hwy 79 exit. Take Hwy 79 north approximately 35 miles to town of Annada. In Annada take County Road 206 east one mile to refuge office.
If you need additional information, please contact the field station directly.
Clarence Cannon NWR
c/o Mark Twain NWR
1704 N. 24th Street
Quincy, IL 62301
Phone (217)224-8580
Fax (217)224-8583
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