Ways to Get Involved
While much of the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is closed to protect sensitive habitats and the threatened and endangered species that depend on them, there are still unique ways for you to connect and get involved!
Volunteering
Become a "Friends" member
Join a growing network of more than 200 nonprofit Refuge Friends organizations that support national wildlife refuges across the country. Whether partnering with a single refuge, a complex, or an entire state, Friends members play a vital role in conserving wildlife and inspiring millions of Americans to protect our natural heritage. Your actions today help shape the conservation legacy of tomorrow.
Volunteer
Each year, more than 42,000 people volunteer with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, contributing their time, skills, and passion to a mission that spans over a century. Volunteers assist in visitor centers, work on the land, and engage with youth; helping protect habitats and wildlife for future generations.
Become a volunteer or Refuge Friend and make a difference for America’s natural resources.
Ready to Volunteer? Join the South Bay Volunteers!
- Discover the rich nature and history of South Bay.
- Lead guided nature walks or help with habitat restoration.
- Participate in hands-on classes and fieldwork. No technical experience needed.
- Meet new people and make lasting connections!
Our Partners
We are committed to building partnerships that promote the conservation of our natural and cultural resources. Effective stewardship of public lands, waters, and wildlife, guided by science and supported by technology, requires collaboration among the Refuge System, government agencies, and private organizations. Below is a list of partners who work alongside the refuge to ensure these efforts succeed.
Education Programs
Connecting Kids with Nature
One of the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge’s top priorities is educating children in Imperial Beach, San Diego, Chula Vista, and National City about the incredible wildlife in their own backyard. The refuge’s unique plants, animals, and habitats offer hands-on learning experiences that bring nature to life right in the heart of the city.
Sweetwater Marsh & Living Coast Discovery Center
Sweetwater Marsh is a perfect place to explore and connect with nature along San Diego Bay. Through a long-standing partnership with the Living Coast Discovery Center (formerly the Chula Vista Nature Center), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides environmental education programs for students near and far.
The Living Coast Discovery Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to coastal resource conservation and inspiring respect for wildlife in people of all ages. Each year, they host thousands of schoolchildren for field trips, science classes, scout programs, and other kid-friendly activities.
Visit their website for more information or to book a tour.
South San Diego Bay Unit – Habitat Heroes
Habitat Heroes is an education and restoration program focused on removing invasive plants and reducing pollution at the South Bay refuge. Sponsored by the Friends of the San Diego Wildlife Refuges, this program brings together students and volunteers to combat 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 and restore native habitats.
Participants work alongside U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff and environmental educators to remove non-native plants and cultivate native species—making a real difference for local wildlife.
The Habitat Heroes restoration site is located at the north end of 13th Street in Imperial Beach, at the Charlie Keever and Jonathan Sellers Outdoor Education Center. This outdoor space offers benches, a viewing scope, and climbing rocks for kids to enjoy while taking in the beauty of the restored habitat.
For more information, contact Ashleyann Perez Rivera at Ashleyann_Perez-Rivera@fws.gov.
Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest
Calling all K–12 students and teachers!
Show off your artistic talent and love for wildlife by participating in the nationwide Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest. Create an original drawing or painting of a North American duck, goose, or swan for a chance to compete locally and even earn national recognition!
Learn how to get involved and submit your artwork by visiting the official Junior Duck Stamp page.