If you’ve never been to a state wildlife management area, take the time to discover what these beautiful areas have to offer. Here, in Pembina County, the Jay Wessel Wildlife Management Area beckons you to explore the incredible biological diversity of one of the most unique areas in North Dakota

North Dakota Game and Fish manages 200 wildlife management areas in the state, encompassing around 220,000 acres of public land. Unless otherwise specified, WMAs are open to hunting, fishing, and trapping and are ideal settings for nature study, hiking, primitive camping, and horseback riding.

The Jay Wessel Wildlife Management Area covers nearly 3,700 acres of mostly aspen forests. As you might expect, it is rich in flora and fauna and is home to a variety of species including moose, elk, deer, ruffed grouse, turkey, snowshoe hares, and tree squirrels. Birdwatchers should keep their eyes on the sky and binoculars handy! Bald eagles, blue jays, downy woodpeckers, American kestrels, and many more are often spotted in the area. If you are looking for a peaceful afternoon with some great scenery, the Jay Wessel Wildlife Management Area will not disappoint!