and the city council approved the idea on July 15, 1997. Ground was broken on March 9, 1998, and it the sanctuary was dedicated on May 20.

In 2011, the preserve underwent a $1.9 million renovation. All but $100,000 was paid by a grant from the Bureau of Land Management, and the remaining money was fundraised by the city's Department of Utility Services. Bird blinds, observation decks, and a new road were added. The preserve had its visitation double