U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Refuge Recommendations Will Strengthen System, Improve Habitat

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's recommendations from its review of the National Wildlife Refuge System should strengthen conservation, improve habitat that fish and wildlife rely on, provide recreational opportunities, and reiterate that refuges lack adequate staff and funding to accomplish their unique and important mission. The National Wildlife Federation looks forward to working with the Administration and Congress to address the challenges facing the System.

"We commend the administration's recognition that the Refuge System needs more field capacity, better support for habitat management, and partnerships to accomplish its conservation mission and expand hunting, fishing, and other recreational access on refuge lands," said David Willms, associate vice president of Public Lands at the National Wildlife Federation. "It is also important for the Service to recognize the unique role it plays in connecting people to the outdoors. With 80% of Americans living in large metro areas, and becoming increasingly disconnected from nature, it's more important than ever to support initiatives like the Urban Wildlife Conservation Program, which has provided countless opportunities for people to fish, recreate, and otherwise enjoy the outdoors."

Every state and territory is home to at least one national wildlife refuge. They connect millions of Americans with the outdoors through hunting, fishing, wildlife watching, environmental education, community-based conservation, and more. As the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works to address the challenges facing the System, the National Wildlife Federation urges its leaders to prioritize its resources to strengthen conservation efforts,expand community partnerships, and enhance local connections to the outdoors.