Credit: USFWS Friends who helped with the construction of the boardwalk on Freeland trail

The Friends of the nation's 500th National Wildlife Refuge was formed in 1996 to preserve and enhance the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The Friends is a non-profit citizen's group devoted to conserving the unique natural and cultural resources of the Refuge and promoting nature oriented education. The Friends work to promote awareness of the Refuge, enlist volunteers for Refuge and recreation program assistance, and sponsor special events of the Refuge, such as bird and wildflower walks and special studies. The Friends also hopes to help provide public involvement in management decision-making, and provide an understanding and appreciation of ecology and people's role in their environment.

The Friends seek members who appreciate the many opportunities the Refuge and the valley have to offer. We encourage membership of wildlife conservationists, wildflower enthusiasts or those with interests in natural history and the relicts of northern forests and wetlands found here. In addition, we seek birdwatchers, hunters, anglers and compatible winter sports enthusiasts who enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing as well as people seeking the peace and tranquility of this secluded natural area in any season.

You may contact the Friends at: