What We Do

Wildlife conservation is at the heart of the National Wildlife Refuge System. It drives everything on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands and waters managed within the Refuge System, from the purpose for which a national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge
A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

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is established, to the recreational activities offered, to the resource management tools used. 

At Yukon Delta Refuge, we work with partners and communities to conserve fish and wildlife populations and their habitats. Biologists conduct monitoring and research efforts on species of biological and cultural significance, and where adequate, provide the science to support subsistence opportunities in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region. We manage resources and provide recreational opportunities to enjoy the vast landscape of the Delta.

A biologist holds a collared goose at Yukon Delta Refuge.

Management and Conservation

Crew for the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta aerial breeding pair survey.

Refuges deploy a host of scientifically sound management tools to address biological challenges. These tools span active water management to wilderness character monitoring, all aimed at ensuring a balanced conservation approach to benefit both wildlife and people.  

Our Projects and Research

Biotechnicians collect information about a nest at Yukon Delta Refuge.

Current monitoring and research efforts include:
•    Kuskokwim fisheries harvest surveys, with emphasis on Chinook salmon
•    Monitoring and management efforts of emperor geese
•    Monitoring of Threatened and Endangered species, such as Steller’s eiders
•    Monitoring and management of Mulchatna caribou.

Law Enforcement

The mission of the Refuge Law Enforcement Program is to protect wildlife and plant resources. Through the effective enforcement of Federal laws, we contribute to Fish and Wildlife Service efforts to recover endangered species, conserve migratory birds, preserve wildlife habitat, safeguard fisheries, combat invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

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, and promote international wildlife conservation.