Those wanting to drive through the Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge have the opportunity this month.

The auto tour road will be open each Friday from August 17th through September 14th. Visitors can drive the 5.5 mile self-guided road anytime from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Refuge staff and Friends of Port Louisa NWR will be on the auto tour loop from 4-7 p.m. to welcome visitors and answer questions. Visitors may see herons, egrets, eagles, deer, turkeys, songbirds, turtles, and waterfowl, and it’s a good time for duck hunters to preview the migration habitat for the upcoming waterfowl hunting season. There is a potential construction project that may be taking place around Fox Pond, which is contingent on water levels reaching a certain depth so the contractor can begin work. If the project causes a public safety or an access issue, the auto tour could potentially be closed for certain periods of time. Please call the refuge office at 319-523-6982 or check their Facebook page to find out the current status before making the drive.