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FRIENDS GROUP OF THE
MAGA TA-HOHPI WATERFOWL PRODUCTION AREA
Supporting Environmental Education
MISSION: The Maga Ta-Hohpi Friends Group is a volunteer, 501C-3 non-profit organization whose mission is to promote, develop and support environmental education and the awareness of the values of preserving and enhancing our natural resources. The Friends Group works in cooperation with the Huron Wetland Management District of the US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS).
GOAL: The Friends Groups’ overall objective is to develop an indoor and outdoor education environmental center on Maga Ta-Hohpi Waterfowl Production Area west of Huron. The campus would include a multi-purpose facility designed and constructed to be environmentally friendly and functionally adaptive to nurture educational opportunities. The campus will encompass over 2,000 acres of natural prairie, wetlands, wildlife and vegetation. It will also include interpretive signing, walking trails, interactive outdoor and indoor experiences, observation decks, science labs, educational programming, displays and much more. The facility would be utilized for education and recreational purposes by schools, university, visitors and residents alike.
- Increase public knowledge of the value of the prairie pothole ecosystem through environmental education.
- Profide an environmental educational experiece for all ages through hands on activities
- Emphasize the role of private landowners in nurturing the prairie pothole landscape.
- Serve as a forum for resolution of natural resource issues.
- Create working partnerships between those involved with natural resources in the prairie pothole region.
WHERE: The Maga Ta-Hohpi Waterfowl Production Area (WPA) encompasses 2,200 acres of land and is located nine miles west of Huron on U.S. Hwy 14. It is managed by the USFWS. A dedication took place in 1992 by the Sioux Indians who named the WPA “Maga Ta-Hohpi” which means “Duck-Nest”.
HOW: The Friends Group is supported by membership dues from individuals, businesses and civic organizations that believe in its mission and goals. There are currently approximately 50 due paying members. Grants have also provided funds for specific projects. Several volunteer committees have been formed including: Grant Writing, Programs & Special Event Development, Building and Membership.
BECOME A FRIEND: Friends truly due make a differece at the Maga Ta-Hohpi Watefowl Production Area. New Friends are always welcome to serve as an active member helping with special events, projects and seminars.
Make checks payable to Maga Ta-Hohpi Friends Group, PO Box 490, Huron, SD 57350
- Annual Dues
- Student $10
- Senior Citizen $10
- Individual $15
- Family $25
- Business $100
- Corporate $500
WHY: The National Wildlife Refuge System includes several throughsand waterfowl production areas that preserve wetlands and grasslands critical to waterfowl and other wildlife. The preservation of waterfowl production areas protects hundreds of wildlife species including fish, migratory brids, and many other plants and animals and the habitats that support them.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS: 
- Bluebird trail with nesting boxes
- Observation deck overlook the Great Blue Heron nesting area
- Field classroom for hands-on environmental education
- GPS and Compass Trail
- Interpretive Kiosk
- Centennial Time Capsule landmark
- Mowed Walking Trail
SPECIAL EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Huron Prairie Fest: A free outdoor educational adventure for the whole family held annually. The 2008 festival date will be annouced at a later date. Approximately 350 people attend annually. Read more...
Dutch Oven Cooking Seminar: This free seminar was held in October, 2007 with 40 individuals taking part. Participants learned the basic techniques needed to enjoy this hobby and also got to make a main dish to share with others during the activity.
Mastering Your GPS: This event was an educational forum for enthusiasts looking for additional training on the use of their Global Positioning Systems. There is a GPS and Compass Trail located on the Waterfowl Production Area with a map available at the kiosk. In addition, the Friends Group has made available a couple of GPS units with video that can be checked out from the Huron Chamber & Visitors Bureau. Call 352-0000 for more information.
Growing for Wildlife: This was a free, educaitonal forum which included sessions on: Creating Your Backyard Birding Paradise, Managing Woody Habitat and Developing and Managing Quality Wildlife Habitat.
CONTACT: Write Maga Ta-Hohpi Friends Group, PO Box 490, Huron, SD 57350 or call (605) 352-5894.
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