The Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge unveiled the first public access points to the refuge located in Gaston during a ceremony on Saturday.

The public now has access to a 2.6-mile trail on top of the levee that partially surrounds the lakebed.

Officials say the refuge is open for wildlife observation and photography, environmental education as well as waterfowl hunting.

The ceremony opened with drumming and a blessing by the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. The Mayor of Gaston and the Regional Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service both delivered remarks.

The Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge was established in 2013 and in October 2022, the refuge’s public access plan was completed. At over 800 acres, the refuge provides habitat for wildlife and wild spaces for people to enjoy.