 A visitor center with exhibits and information about the refuge was opened in 2008 off of Oregon Route 99W near Sherwood in the Portland metropolitan area . Next to the center is the refuge 's headquarters and an observation deck overlooking seasonal ponds . The refuge has nearly five miles of wildlife interpretive trails open to the public . Up to 50 @,@ 000 waterfowl can be seen at the refuge during the winter months when officials flood portions of the refuge . 
