The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge south of Prairie City is going to be hosting two upcoming open houses as part of a public comment period on the future of the refuge and its facilities. It’s being proposed that the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge continue to offer environmental education and interpretation on site. This information is contained in a draft of what’s called a Compatibility Determination document, which describes proposed changes to these uses. 

A 30-day public comment period has been initiated on this proposal, which the public can comment on and learn about at the open houses from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13th, and from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14th. Refuge staff will also share updates on the building renovation and plans for the Visitor Center at the open houses, which will be held in the Visitor Center.

Comments regarding the Compatibility Determination will be accepted through April 2, 2026, and should be emailed to nealsmith@fws.gov or mailed to Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, P.O. Box 399, Prairie City, Iowa, 50228.

The draft Compatibility Determination is available electronically at: https://www.fws.gov/…/draft_nls_ee_multitype_cd_2025.pdf