Black Coulee NWR is located north of Dodson in northeastern Blaine County, Montana. A portion of the refuge was purchased with migratory bird funds, and technically is a Waterfowl Production Area. This unstaffed station contains one large retention reservoir with a newly-replaced water control structure and reconstructed concrete/rubble spillway. A portion of the refuge is under easement only. The western portion of the unit is managed strictly as a NWR and is mostly low-quality native range. The unit can receive large amounts of snow melt in some years, but also has been dry during periods of drought. Black Coulee Reservoir has received considerable siltation from adjacent agricultural lands, which has reduced water capacity and the ability to carry water over for a number of years. The refuge is managed primarily as a resting and nesting place for migratory birds. The area also has resident wildlife such as prong horns and raptors. Some riparian wildlife species can be found around the reservoir.ÿ