March 14, 2003, marks the Centennial of the National Wildlife Refuge System, the only federal system of lands dedicated to the conservation and management of wildlife. On this day, Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton will commemorate this conservation milestone in Sebastian, Florida, home to the first national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge
A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
Learn more about national wildlife refuge , Pelican Island. A series of events from March 13-16 will honor this unique network of lands. In advance of these events, there are a number of exclusive media opportunities available, including:
Pelican Media Boat Tours
: See Pelican itself. This first official wildlife refuge was set aside by President Theodore Roosevelt and endures as a symbol of his 100-year conservation legacy. Tours are scheduled for January 31, February 14 and February 28, March 10,11, 12 and 13 and will include the opportunity to secure breathtaking footage and interviews. Slots are filling up fast, so sign up today!In-Depth Interview Opportunities: With the Centennial approaching quickly, the following government officials and Centennial Commissioners are available for in-depth interviews: Steven Williams, Director of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
The National Wildlife Refuge System Centennial Commission:
William Horn, Chair of Centennial Commission
Ramona Bass, Texas Wild, Fort Worth Zoo
Michael Bean, Chair for Wildlife Programs at Environmental Defense
Peter Coors, Chairman, Coors Brewing Company
Lynn Greenwalt, Former U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service DirectorJack Hanna, host of the hit television series "Jack Hanna
