Benson Pond

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Sodhouse Ranch

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Malheur National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters

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Malheur Field Station

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Malheur Center Patrol Road

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Krumbo Reservoir

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Diamond Craters

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Page Springs Campground and nature trails

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Buena Vista Ponds and Overlook

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Frenchglen

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The Narrows

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Pete French Round Barn

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Seasons

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Location

With its tall cottonwood trees and habitat diversity, Benson Pond sports the second highest species totals (after headquarters) of any spot within Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

To find Benson Pond, travel 8 miles south from Buena Vista (or 11 miles north from Frenchglen) to the Krumbo Reservoir turnoff. Take Krumbo Reservoir Road east one quarter mile to the Center Patrol Road (CPR) which begins off to the right. After a little less than a mile on CPR you will see a good -sized lake and the Benson Pond Trailhead on your left.

Directions

Habitat and Birds

Park at the trailhead and walk the Benson Pond Trail into the grove of trees at the end of the road.

Scan for the Trumpeter Swans that typically nest on the pond. Waterfowl are well represented, as are terns, flycatchers, and swallows. Vagrant passerines are always a possibility in season.

Once back at the CPR, continue south to explore more of Benson Pond and other productive areas.

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