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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Restored section of Narraguagus river in Maine with newly constructed engineered log jams, narrowed channel, and floodplain

Restore Habitats

Updated July 29, 2026

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works to restore America's habitats through funding, environmental response leadership, and partnerships with landowners and non-federal partners. Restoration works best when it happens close to home - on private land, in local watersheds, and in the neighborhoods where people live.

There are many ways to get involved. Landowners can work with the Service to restore wetlands or grasslands, often with cost-share support; volunteers can join hands-on restoration events at a nearby refuge; and communities can partner on projects like stream restoration or removing invasive species. Every acre restored - whether it's a backyard or a working farm - helps preserve the lands, species, and resources that define our nation's natural beauty and help us all to thrive.

Our Restoration Programs

An ʻakekeʻe Birds perches on a green branch. It has a yellowish-green body with a tiny black eye.
Ecosystem Restoration Program
In collaboration with states, Tribes, local communities and federal agencies, we are using Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to advance habitat restoration, conduct invasive species control and conserve at-risk species
Great egret in oil damaged marsh.
Environmental Response and Restoration
We provide planning, preparedness, and environmental response leadership; conduct natural resource damage assessment and restoration activities to protect and restore fish, wildlife, and their habitats when they are threatened or harmed by illegal oil discharges, releases of hazardous substances, or other environmental pollution.
Scenic view of Laurence Lake in Oregon
Sport Fish Restoration
Through the Sport Fish Restoration program, we provide funds to fish and wildlife agencies of the states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories for fishery projects, boating access, and aquatic education.
Two men in hats meet with a woman on a piece of arid-looking land.
Partners for Fish and Wildlife
The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program provides free technical and financial assistance to landowners, managers, tribes, corporations, schools and nonprofits interested in improving wildlife habitat on their land.
Wildlife Crossing
Wildlife Restoration Program
Through the Wildlife Restoration Program we provide grant funds to the states and insular areas fish and wildlife agencies for projects to restore, conserve, manage and enhance wild birds and mammals and their habitat.
American Widgeon North Dakota
The Habitat and Population Evaluation Team
The Habitat and Population Evaluation Team (HAPET) integrates scientific data and landscape-scale conservation planning with a focus on migratory birds.
A calm river reflects a pink sunrise sky. Trees line the banks and a soft mist rises in the distance.
National Fish Passage Program
Across the country, millions of barriers are fragmenting rivers, blocking fish migration, and putting communities at higher risk to flooding. Removing those barriers is one of the most effective ways to help conserve vulnerable species while building safer infrastructure for people. The National Fish Passage Program restores rivers, protects wildlife, and rebuilds economies.
Ducks flying over water at sunset
Migratory Bird Joint Ventures
Migratory Bird Joint Ventures are collaborative, regional partnerships of government agencies, non-profit organizations, corporations, tribes, and individuals that conserve habitat for the benefit of priority bird species, other wildlife, and people.

Help Us Restore Habitats!

Frriends of Bosques gathered for clean up day
Join a Friends Partnership
We provide support and guidance to almost 200 Friends partnerships nationwide and facilitate the formation of new partnerships at all staffed national wildlife refuges or refuge complexes.
Volunteers making repairs on a Bitter Lake NWR Trail
Volunteer at a Refuge or Fish Hatchery
We have opportunities for everyone, regardless of age, ability, location, or time commitment.
Volunteers showing children antlers
Explore Our Education Programs
Learn about nature and conservation through education opportunities, podcasts, book clubs, and more.
Riverbank pollinator garden with boat dock

Habitat Restoration News

Learn how we consult with other federal agencies, conduct projects on lands we manage, and partner with local governments, organizations, and private landowners to restore habitat for the benefit of species.

Read about our habitat restoration efforts
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