The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge south of Prairie City is hosting open houses today and tomorrow 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 downsize while continuing to offer environmental education programs on site. This proposal comes after the refuge’s Learning Center sustained an estimated $7-million of hail damage during a 2024 storm that produced golf ball-sized hail. The Learning Center has yet to reopen.

A downsizing of the Visitor Center is being recommended. It’s proposed that the facility be cut from 43,000 square feet to about 21,000 square feet, with a reduction in exhibit capacity from 150 to 50 people.

Today’s open house in the Visitor Center is from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., while Saturday’s is from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Refuge staff will also share updates on the building renovation and plans for the Visitor Center at the open houses.