Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area protects a broad complex of habitats along the Patoka River in southwestern Indiana, centered on the river’s floodplain and associated wetlands and edges. Established in 1994, it extends for nearly 40 miles and includes the Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area near Gibson Lake. Its habitats support diverse birdlife, including bald eagles and the endangered least tern, which nest in or winter in the area. The refuge also figured in regional controversy when Interstate 69 was built through part of the area in 2012, despite use of a long bridge intended to lessen environmental harm.