It is with great pleasure and pride that I introduce you to the Kenai NWR and its many wonders.  The Refuge is one of over 500 units in the National Wildlife Refuge System, a 150-million acre network of lands and waters set aside to help conserve our nation’s fish and wildlife heritage.  I know that you will agree that this Refuge is a very special place among special places.  

Alaska is a land of awe-inspiring beauty and fish and wildlife spectacles, and the Refuge is a microcosm of all this wonderful state has to offer.   

Your opportunities for outdoor adventures here extend year-round and include world-class fishing, hunting, hiking, cross-country skiing, canoeing, and camping.   Whether you choose to fish or float the emerald waters of the Kenai River or experience wilderness solitude canoeing in lowland lakes or hiking high into the alpine tundra, you are sure to create life-long and indelible memories.  I encourage you to take a few moments to reflect on the spirit of this wild place.  It is the spirit of Alaska, it is endless, and it will inspire and enrich you.   

Whether you live far away or right here on the Kenai Peninsula,  I hope that you all come to know and treasure this special place the Dena’ina people call “Yaghanen”  - the “good land.”  The Kenai Refuge, like all national wildlife refuges, is your refuge.   We consider it the highest privilege to be entrusted with the stewardship of its amazingly rich natural and cultural resources, on behalf of all of you and future generations of Americans.  Don’t hesitate to contact us should you have questions or need information, and your suggestions are always welcome.   The entire Refuge staff greatly looks forward to serving you, and to seeing you soon!

Sincerely,

Andy Loranger
Refuge Manager