Beyond their primary mission of conserving and enhancing land and water for fish, wildlife and plants, national wildlife refuges are important in other ways. They offer healthy, world-class outdoor recreation. They improve air and water quality across the nation. They help lessen the impact of natural disasters on local communities. They reduce the risk of wildfire. They help preserve the nation’s cultural heritage. They add to the nation’s economic well-being. See 11 Ways Wildlife Refuges Make Life Better.