Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary

The American Flag waving in the wind

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On July 4, 2026, the United States marked 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For those 250 years, Americans have depended on wild lands, clean water, and abundant wildlife. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service helps make those things possible.

2 people hold up Betsy Ross flag in front of brick wall saying Visitor Center
Flags Across America
Aerial view of Waugoshance Point in Wilderness State Park on Lake Michigan at sunset in winter.
250 Years of Conservation
A brown spotted cat walks along a snowy river bank
Our Nation's Nature
Bald eagles perched in a tree
A Very American Bird

By Air, By Land, By Water

Join the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in celebrating our enduring commitment to the conservation of our nation’s breathtaking natural treasures. This milestone is not just about reflecting on our rich history; it’s about igniting passion and inspiration for the future, as we protect the diverse ecosystems that nurture the fish, wildlife, and plants essential to our well-being. 

Photo collage of bald eagle, monarch butterfly, and greater sage grouse
By Air

The Service protects native bird species across North America, and in some cases, in the Southern Hemisphere, through habitat conservation, monitoring, research, and enforcement. Birds play critical roles in ecosystems as pollinators, seed dispersers, and natural pest control agents. Bird conservation began in the early 1900s, when overharvesting for food and fashion led to steep population declines. The Lacey Act of 1900 was the first U.S. law to protect birds. Today, we continue that legacy by helping bird populations thrive.

Photo collage of black-footed ferret, black bear, and bison
By Land
The Service conserves land to protect wildlife and their habitats through national wildlife refuges, species recovery projects, and partnerships with tribes and local communities. The first national wildlife refuge , Pelican Island, was created in 1903. Today, more than 570 refuges protect over 95 million acres of land, supporting biodiversity and ensuring future generations can enjoy America’s natural heritage.
Photo collage of arctic grayling, salmon, and sturgeon
By Sea
Aquatic conservation is essential for healthy ecosystems, clean water, and sustainable fisheries. The Service restores waterways, operates fish hatcheries, and protects aquatic habitats across the country. We co-manage over 760 million marine acres, 38 wetland management districts, and 70 national fish hatcheries, which release an estimated 223 million fish, mussels, and amphibians annually. The first national fish hatchery was established in 1872 on the McCloud River in California, and we have been conserving fish ever since.

Who We Are

Learn about the History of FWS

Commitment to Conservation

Learn more about the history of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Black and white photos of conservation past heroes.
Celebrating the Past
Humans have always had a connection to the lands, water, and wildlife of what is now the United States, from the traditional knowledge of the earliest indigenous peoples to the modern era of legislative protections and species restoration. Click the links below to explore this interactive timeline that captures this rich history, learn more about America's conversation heroes and the Service history.
Four U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists wading in a river holding up mussels they’ve found.
Honoring the Present
People from accountants to zoologists have found careers and volunteer opportunities in the Fish and Wildlife Service. Some of the giants of American wildlife conservation worked for the Service. Learn about our conservation heroes, past and present.
Future of Conservation Podcast
Looking Forward to the Future
The Future of Conservation podcast series explores the cutting-edge science, innovative ideas, and passionate people working to protect our planet and its species. Click the link below to listen to these important stories.

Resources

Explore the National Conservation Center Broadcast Library
Archives and MuseumsWildlife portraits stampsIndigenous Connectionsbrown and yellow tribal design on a blanketNCTC Conservation Lecture SeriesThe Delair Division of Great River National Wildlife Refuge has an abundance of waterfowl.Live Eagle CamEagle with three eggs in nestFish of the Week PodcastFish of he Week poster image.Build a Pollinator GardenTiger swallowtail butterfly on purple coneflowerBird Friendly Home ToolkitA hummingbird clearwing moth visits a wild bergamot flowerThoughts from Home PodcastThoughts From Home Podcast from the National Conservation Training Center Graphics: Richard DeVries/USFWS
People conducting survey.

Get Involved

Volunteers play a vital role in helping the Service meet its conservation goals. Volunteers can work a few hours a week or at single–day events, and we welcome volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. 

Visit our volunteers pageFind a refuge or fish hatchery