Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge is one of New York's top 10 areas for grassland dependent migratory birds. This exceptional habitat was formerly the Galeville Military Airport. In 1994, the U.S. Department of Defense determined it longer needed the site. It was subsequently transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1999.
The refuge is 566 acres. It is located in the valley below the Shawangunk Mountains near the Hamlet of Wallkill in the Town of Shawangunk, Ulster County, New York. Visitors are rewarded with spectacular views of the Shawangunks as well as many species of grassland birds.
This is an unstaffed satellite of the Wallkill River NWR. Call 973-702-7266 for more information.
Keeping this grassland and controlling the invasion of weeds, woody shrubs, and trees is the highest management priority for the refuge. Even though human created, this grassland is increasingly important for grassland-dependent migratory birds.
As part of its management strategy, the refuge strives to restore and expand the habitats of six species of declining migratory birds that currently or historically occupied the refuge. Bobolink, Savannah sparrow, Grasshopper sparrow, Upland Sandpiper, Northern Harrier, and Short-eared Owl are the focus of refuge management.
