Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi is a cooperating association with the Huron Wetland Management District of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. It is a private, non-profit corporation organized to promote, develop and support environmental education and awareness of the values of preserving and enhancing our natural resources. The wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities provided at Maga Ta-Hohpi WPA bring the community civic pride, economic vitality, support of strong family values, and an improved appreciation and knowledge of wildlife, plant, and prairie resources. In 2009, the Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi contributed 600 hours of volunteer time in support of conservation programs in the Huron community. The Friends Group’s Goal is “to increase public knowledge of the value of the prairie pothole ecosystem; provide an environmental educational experience for all ages; create working partnerships between those involved with natural resources; provide for continued economic growth, development, and preservation for future generations." Further, the Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi strive to implement the USFWS’ Connecting People with Nature Initiative.  As an organization, we recognize that we have an important role to play in helping others in the local community learn about the benefits of connecting with nature.

Maga Ta-Hohpi (Maha-ta-hopie), a Yankton Sioux term meaning ‘Duck Nest’, is a Waterfowl Production Area with approximately 2,200 acres of land. It is located nine miles west of Huron on Hwy 14.
 
Waterfowl Production Areas are not just for wildlife. They are places of peace and tranquility where visitors can renew an intimate tie with nature. Photographers, walkers, birders, school groups, families and outdoor enthusiasts, there is something for everyone. Perhaps the greatest potential of the area lies in the prospect of providing environmental education to an increasing urbanized society.

Visit our new Facebook page for more information on upcoming events.
Wildflowers Credit: Chris Bailey
Bird Banding Credit: USFWS
Canvasback Credit: Chris Bailey
Outreach Credit: USFWS
Welcome:
Friends Group of Maga Ta-Hohpi WPA
All Wildlife Photos Credit to and Courtesy of Chris Bailey and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
For more of Chris's photos check out http://randomimagesfromtheheartland.com/
"We would like to invite you to become a member.  Whether you are able to actively participate through volunteering or just make a financial contribution, your support is needed and appreciated.  We can use volunteer assistance of all sorts, including office administration or web maintenance.  By being a member of the Friends Group, you are directly contributing to the educational programs we developed and provide for youth and their families, such as Huron Prairie Fest, Creatures of the Night, Dutch Oven Cooking, Winter Wonderland, etc.  Thanks to membership dollars and volunteers, most of these programs have been offered free to participants.  Membership fees are a tax deductible contribution."    ~Friends Group
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