Overview
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge protects wetlands and forests along the Tennessee River and is an important winter home for ducks, geese and cranes.
History
The refuge was established in 1938 on the reservoir behind Wheeler Dam, making it one of the first national wildlife refuges on a man-made reservoir.
Today
Birdwatchers come in winter to see sandhill cranes and endangered whooping cranes, celebrated each January at the Festival of the Cranes.
Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.