Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we ask that you do the following:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
  • Face masks are required in all federal buildings and on all federal lands.
  • Maintain a safe distance between yourself and other groups.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Around the Refuge

Piping Plovers are Back

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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service needs your help this spring and summer to protect threatened piping plovers, their nests and chicks on Rhode Island beaches. These rare migratory birds have returned to Rhode Island and will spend several weeks establishing territories and beginning to nest on the state’s beaches. To help protect and encourage piping plover nesting, the Service ropes specific areas to protect the breeding birds from pedestrians, pets and vehicles, since disturbance can cause the birds to abandon the site or could result in eggs being unknowingly crushed. This year the Service will continue to rope off National Wildlife Refuge beaches at the Mean High Water level to protect nesting and foraging areas for adults and chicks.

Visitor Activities

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There are activities for the whole family year-round at Block Island National Wildlife Refuge including fishing,hunting, wildlife viewing, environmental education and photography. Check out our Visitor Activities page to learn more!

Visitor Activities

Get Involved

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Volunteers play an integral role at the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Assignments can include greeting visitors at the contact station, leading tours, plover monitoring, invasive species management and trail maintenance. Visit our Get Involved page to learn more!

Get Involved
What's Happening

Upcoming Events

There are events year-round at the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Check out our program calendar to find one near you!

RI Complex Program Calendar

About the Complex

Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Block Island National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Read more about the complex
About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

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The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.

Learn more about the NWRS
Follow NWRS Online