What We Do

Habitat Restoration – The refuge uses several tools to accomplish habitat restoration of the longleaf pine ecosystem.  These include prescribed burning, silvicultural practices such as planting and thinning trees, and application of herbicides to control unwanted, nonnative, or invasive species.  These activities are broadly described in the refuge’s Habitat Management Plant (2014) and Fire Management Plan (2008) and more specifically prescribed in annual or biannual management unit prescriptions.  On average, the refuge manages 500 to 2,000 acres per year using forest management actions and 10,000-15,000 acres per year using prescribed fire.

Agriculture – The refuge uses both cooperative (partner) and force-account (refuge conducted) agriculture to enhance areas for migratory birds and game species.  These activities include planting, disking, mowing, and burning both annual and perennial grasses and crops.  Since 98% of the refuge is forested, these wildlife openings, fields, and strips provide important habitat for many species.

Compatibility Determinations – In order for a public activity to occur on a national wildlife refuge , by law it must first be determined appropriate and compatible with the purposes of the refuge.  The following activities have been determined compatible with the purpose of Carolina Sandhills NWR:  hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, environmental education and interpretation, bicycling, boating, commercial forestry, cooperative farming, hiking, horseback riding (by permit), jogging/walking, natural resource collection (by permit), outdoor recreational vehicle use (by permit), picnicking, public safety training (by permit), research and monitoring (by permit), and youth camping (by permit).  For more information or to learn about the conditions that govern these uses, please contact the refuge.

Education & Outreach – occasionally, the refuge hosts school groups, youth organization, and civic clubs for refuge tours and site-conducted environmental education.   For more information, please contact the refuge.

Feral Swine Management - Feral swine (Sus scrofa) are descendants of escaped or released pigs. They are not native to North America and are very destructive to the habitat. Carolina Sandhills NWR is working with its neighbors, state and federal agencies, and others on a landscape approach for controlling feral hogs. 

The Comprehensive Conservation Plan for the refuge was completed in 2010 and provides a framework for fulfilling the purposes of the refuge.