What We Do
The National Wildlife Refuge System is a series of lands and waters owned and managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Wildlife conservation is at the heart of the refuge system. It drives everything we do from the purpose a refuge is established, to the recreational activities offered there, to the resource management tools we use. Selecting the right tools helps us ensure the survival of local plants and animals and helps fulfill the purpose of the refuge.
Management and Conservation
Refuges deploy a host of scientifically sound management tools to address biological challenges. These tools all aim at ensuring a balanced conservation approach to benefit both wildlife and people. The Charles M. Russell Wetland Management District covers five counties in central Montana. It includes four unstaffed satellite refuges and five Waterfowl Production Areas. Management actions are similar across the District and our conservation toolbox includes prescribed fire, prescribed grazing, and invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species management.
Law Enforcement
Federal Wildlife Officers promote the survival of species and health of the environment by ensuring that wildlife laws are followed. They also welcome visitors, and are often the first U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employees encountered by the public on refuges. Federal Wildlife Officers are entrusted with protecting natural resources, visitors and employees on National Wildlife Refuge System lands.
Laws and Regulations
Management actions on national wildlife refuges are bound by many mandates including laws and executive orders.