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Steigerwald remains closed to visitors

Federal funding ran out Sept. 30

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The Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located off of Highway 14 just east of Washougal, remains closed to the public, due to the federal government shutdown that closed all national parks across the country. The government has been partially closed since Oct. 1, and the Oct. 17 debt ceiling deadline is right around the corner. If the US debt ceiling is not raised by Thursday, the Treasury would run out of money and could begin defaulting on its obligations. Today, there have been reports that Senate leaders are working on a deal that could re-open the government soon.

A local National Wildlife Refuge that is home to a trail popular with walkers and bird watchers has been much quieter than usual during the past two weeks.

The 1,049-acre Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge remains closed as a result of the federal government shutdown —now entering its 15th day.

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