MN Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Black Dog Unit (Burnsville, Minnesota)

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This 1,400 acre preserve stretches on both sides of the Xcel Energy power plant to Hwy 35 on the west and Hwy 77 on the east. Black Dog Preserve is a fragile, yet enduring place, home to the calcarious fen and native prairie. Part of the Black Dog Preserve is managed as a Scientific and Natural Area, a program run by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) which preserves certain lands for their unique habitats.

This area has historically been an important resting area for migratory birds and waterfowl. Today with Xcel Energy using the lake to cool water before it re-enters the Minnesota River, some birds are able to stay here longer in winter. A favorite bird among many local people is the American woodcock. Male woodcocks prefer the open habitat of Black Dog Preserve for their singing fields.

www.fws.gov/midwest/MinnesotaValley/blackdog.html
www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=32590
www.nps.gov/archive/miss/maps/model/mnrefuge.html