A Place for the Birds

History of Fairbanks home to Migratory Visitors

In the heart of Fairbanks, Alaska, an oasis is held in trust for residents and travelers alike. Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, an expanse of farm fields ringed by forested lands, provides a quiet place to walk, ski, or simply enjoy lunch. Surrounded by businesses, housing developments, and a four-lane highway, this three-square-mile remnant of farmland, complete with a quaint turn-of-the-century farmhouse and two handsome barns, has somehow escaped urbanization. The fields are gently rolling and free of permafrost, making them ideal for urban development. Instead, geese, ducks, and Lesser Sandhill Cranes by the thousands make use of the fields each spring and fall. And in winter, the land is a mecca for area dog mushers and skiers. What is the history behind the homey farmhouse and the Midwestern-style barns? And how is it that this farm gained refuge status?

An intriguing story unfolds of a pioneer farm built in the midst of an ancient flyway for cranes and waterfowl, and the townspeople who grew to appreciate the green fields and the birds that congregate there. When the farm eventually faced foreclosure, the farmer hoped to keep the land undivided for the benefit of the birds. The community, too, felt this connection to the land and was inspired to work with the farmer to save the farm from becoming just another housing complex or shopping mall. Together, they found a way to preserve Creamer's Field as a waterfowl refuge.

Visitors at the Refuge

• Sandhill Cranes
• Snow and Canada Geese
• Trumpeter Swans
• Warblers and Sparrows