About Us
The Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge(NWR), was established in 1951 as a breeding ground for colonial bird species. Herons, cormorants, egrets, endangered brown pelicans and many more species use this quiet refuge for nesting. Tarpon Key, one of the islands making-up the refuge, hosts the largest brown pelican rookery in the state of Florida. The abundant green sea grass beds around the island are protected from motorized boat activity.
Pinellas Key NWR is closed to public use year-round.
Pinellas Key NWR is managed as part of the Crystal River NWR Complex.
Our Mission
Vision
Pinellas Key NWR will strive to preserve, restore, and enhance the exceptional diversity of native fauna of Pinellas Key and its surrounding waters for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
Pinellas Key provides essential wildlife habitat with opportunities for research, and quality environmental and outdoor recreation. Pinellas Key NWR is a vital link in the Tampa Bay area for nesting, resting, and wintering migratory birds. Protecting this refuge with its diverse and abundant wildlife is critical for ensuring the enjoyment of the island by future generations.
To meet these challenges, the Service will seek partnerships with other agencies, interest groups, and local communities. These efforts will result in greater protection of wildlife, fish, and plant resources throughout west-central Florida.
Refuge Purpose(s)
Each unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System is established to serve a statutory purpose that targets the conservation of native species dependent on its lands and waters. All activities on those acres are reviewed for compatibility with this statutory purpose.
The purpose of the Rrefuge is as follows:
Provide nesting, feeding and resting habitat for colonial water birds including laughing gulls, royal terns, black skimmers, sandwich terns, brown pelicans and oyster catchers.
Provide critical habitat and protection for thousands of shore birds and water birds.
Preserve and protect barrier island habitat.
Our History
Pinellas Key NWR was established in 1951.