About The Refuge

Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge (refuge) encompasses 3.5 square miles located within the towns of Hudson, Maynard, Stow and Sudbury which is approximately 20 miles west of Boston. Formerly part of Fort Devens, this area was known as the Sudbury Training Annex. The U.S. Army transferred 2,230 acres to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the fall of 2000.

The refuge has a large wetland complex, several smaller wetlands and vernal pools, and large forested areas which are important feeding and breeding areas for migratory birds and other wildlife. It also has 15 miles of trails (half are open to biking) open to the public for the enjoyment of nature as well as a visitor center located on Winterberry Way. Our primary purpose is to manage these lands for migratory bird conservation. The refuge is one of eight national wildlife refuges that comprise the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex.