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

There is no active habitat management program at Ozark Cavefish National Wildlife Refuge at this time. The refuge is closed to the public to minimize disturbance for the federally threatened Ozark cavefish. This fish species requires undisturbed cave streams and springs where it will feed on plankton, isopods, salamander larvae and bat guano. More research is being done so that the best management practices can be put in place to protect the future population of this fish species.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement issues should be referred to the deputy refuge manager or refuge manager at Mingo National Wildlife Refuge, 573-222-3589.