On Sabbatical 2025-2026
About the Refuge
Martin Refuge is 300 acres of dense South Texas brush located NE of Mission, Texas. We are the SE corner of a 2200 acre island of habitat surrounded by farm fields and development, making it truly a refuge for the plants and animals that live here.
John and Audrey Martin acquired the property in 1985 and vowed to preserve the biodiversity. Adding water has been the only major alteration to the pristine habitat. Even today, clearing roads and brush are done by hand and not machine. The species list is long and native and migrant bird activity is spectacular.
John and Audrey Martin acquired the property in 1985 and vowed to preserve the biodiversity. Adding water has been the only major alteration to the pristine habitat. Even today, clearing roads and brush are done by hand and not machine. The species list is long and native and migrant bird activity is spectacular.
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From the brain of John Martin came the idea that photographers would pay for an enhanced experience on private land where professionally designed photo settings are provided and the birds and other critters become acclimated to the shutter click. Martin Refuge opened to the public in 2003.
Increasingly important today is the privacy and security offered on private lands. Once inside the gate, you can concentrate on your subjects without the concerns of who might wander by or what could happen to your expensive vehicle and equipment. The Refuge is a conservation effort and prototype of how habitat can be preserved while providing an income and incentive to landowners. We are proud to have started the industry and encourage other landowners to come aboard. Please read about the industry and some fun client experiences: Birding is Fun blog posted by Linda Rockwell:
http://www.birdingisfun.com/2013/02/the-martin-refuge-at-rio-grande-valley.html Kevin Hurt blogs about the Raptor Blind http://kevinjhurtphotography.wordpress.com/2011/11/21/omg-what-a-raptor-blind/ Dennis and Karen Skogsbergh visit Martin Refuge http://dskogsphoto.com/?portfolio=wildlife-refuges |
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