Nowitna is approximately 200 miles west of Fairbanks in the
central Yukon River Valley. The refuge encompasses forested
lowlands, hills, lakes, marshes, ponds, and streams. The
dominant feature on Nowitna is the Nowitna River - a nationally
designated wild river. This magnificant river provides spawning
grounds for northern pike and sheefish. However, the primary
reason the refuge was established was to protect waterfowl and
their habitat. Nowitna is one of four refuges (Nowitna, Innoko,
Kanuti, and Koyukuk refuges) encompassed by a solar basin. A
solar basin is characterized by encircling hills, light winds,
low rainfall, severe winters and short, warm summers. The summer
sun encircles these refuges without setting. The refuges mix of
habitats supports varied wildlife. Black bear and moose are
common throughout Nowitna. Marten, mink, wolverine, beaver, and
muskrat are important furbearers that provide income (furs),
food, and recreation for local residents. The Nowitna River is
an outstanding river for float