From their start in 1903, America’s national wildlife refuges owe their very existence to community members eager to protect our nation’s natural resources and wildlife heritage. “Refuge Friends Groups” have evolved from these early Refuge keepers to become organizations focused on supporting their local 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 and engaging communities in conservation.
The Friends of Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge in Albuquerque, New Mexico is a shining example of how a friends group can help generate conservation and impact an entire community. This group came together before Valle de Oro was even officially a national wildlife refuge. Through community engagement, creating innovative partnerships, fundraising, outreach, and lots of determination, the Friends Group helped establish the Refuge and created an oasis for the community within an urban environment. This outstanding organization was just named the Southwest Region’s “Friends Group of the Year”! Learn more about the Friends and how you can become involved in a group near you.
