Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge has a modest, but evolving, volunteer program. At any time of year, between 2-4 volunteers are likely to be found on site. The volunteers participate in monitoring studies of seabirds and other wildlife, and assist in the control of noxious plants and the restoration of habitat. For more information on the refuge volunteer program, click on NWR Volunteer.

Friends of the Refuge

Most national wildlife refuges derive their funding through Congressional appropriations, but dozens of refuges benefit directly through the efforts of "Friends" organizations. These groups typically originate when individuals in the communities surrounding a particular refuge come together because of their common interest in its welfare. Friends groups help to ensure that refuge lands are adequately protected and that their mission is not compromised. They also play a critical role in helping the public to learn about and to understand the value of refuges. Some Friends groups may become non-profit organizations and function under formal, written agreements that define their relationship with a refuge.

Some of the earliest Friends groups were left to their own devices, trying to build an organization from scratch. Now, there is a national initiative underway to facilitate the development of new Friends groups with the help of others and the guidance of the National Wildlife Refuge Association, the only national membership organization dedicated solely to protecting and perpetuating the National Wildlife Refuge System. For more information on the Friends Initiative, the NWRA and refuge activities around the country, click on Refuge Net.

A new Friends group has formed in support of Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. It draws on a wide variety of enthusiastic supporters....World War II veterans, former residents, history buffs, naturalists and a growing list of recent visitors who have left the refuge with a new-found commitment to this wonderful place. If you are interested in becoming a supporting member of the Friends group, please visit the website for more information or send your name and address to friendsofmidway@aol.com.

The Friends Group is pleased to announce a new poster (see below) featuring Midway's most common resident, the Laysan albatross. The purpose of the poster is to spread awareness about Midway and to raise funds to be used in support of the refuge. It is available for a $10 donation to Friends of Midway plus $5.00 for shipping and handling. If you are interested, send a note to friendsofmidway@aol.com. We thank you for your support!