The US Fish and Wildlife Service will hold three public meetings in the Virginia Beach area during January 2002 to hear public comments and provide information on a comprehensive conservation planning effort at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge includes over 8,700 acres of valuable fish and wildlife habitat in the southeastern corner of Virginia, and is an important link in the chain of national wildlife refuges located along the Atlantic Flyway.

Tuesday, January 15, 2002 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Red Mill Elementary School
1860 Sandbridge Road
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Wednesday, January 16, 2002 6:00pm - 9:00pm
First Colonial High School
1272 Mill Dam Road
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Thursday, January 17, 2002 6:30pm - 9:00pm
Kempsville High School
5194 Chief Trail
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Who:

The meetings are open to the public. Every meeting will begin with an open house session for the first hour (6:00-7:00pm), then proceed to a brief presentation. The remainder of each meeting will allow for the public to submit comments, suggestions and questions.

Why:

The Service is beginning its comprehensive conservation planning effort at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This effort will provide a unique opportunity for local involvement in determining the direction of management for the next 15 years at the Refuge. The plan will address fish and wildlife habitat conservation, recreational and educational opportunities, public access, and land protection strategies. The Service will hold additional public meetings in the future, and before the plan becomes final.

The Service is the federal agency responsible for conserving, protecting, and enhancing the nation's fish and wildlife resources for the continuing benefit of the American people. There are over 530 national wildlife refuges, totaling nearly 93 million acres, which provide important habitat for native plants and animals, and certain marine mammals and fish. When appropriate, refuges are open for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, and interpretation.

- FWS -