National Wildlife Refuge System

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A walking stick rests on the handrail of an overlook platform at Missouri’s Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge

Why I Took These Shots

A walking stick rests on the handrail of an overlook platform at Missouri’s Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge. (Photo: Ashley Riedel/USFWS)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologist Ashley Riedel enjoys photographing “the smaller, often unnoticed or misunderstood side of life.” In our story she reflects on a dozen of her favorite photos, including the one above.

Plan Your Visit

Public Lands and Waters

Founded by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903 and administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Wildlife Refuge System is a diverse network of lands and waters dedicated to conserving America’s rich fish and wildlife heritage.

Wildlife Conservation

Refuges deploy a host of scientifically sound management tools to address biological challenges. Tools range from water management to wilderness character monitoring.
Great Recreation

Refuges offer people access to a range of popular activities that depend on thriving fish and wildlife populations. These include hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, photography and education.
Part of Local Communities

Through partnerships, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service leads the way in developing community-driven conservation solutions that reap ecological and economic benefits for fish, wildlife and people.

Services

We offer a wealth of tools and resources for the people we serve.

Get Involved

Volunteers

Gain new experiences and meet new people while helping to advance wildlife conservation.
Friends

Join neighbors in helping refuges restore habitat and expand access to green space.
Urban Communities

Find out how urban residents can work with refuges to better their communities.
Youth

Explore paid and unpaid opportunities to develop leadership skills.

American black bear at Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge in Maine. (Photo: Keith Ramos/USFWS)

Highlights

Services