Frequently Asked Questions
About the National Wildlife Refuge Association
Q: What is the National Wildlife Refuge Association?
A: We are a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting, promoting, and enhancing the National Wildlife Refuge System, the world’s largest network of lands and waters set aside for wildlife conservation.
Q: What is the National Wildlife Refuge System?
A: The National Wildlife Refuge System (Refuge System) is a network of public lands and waters managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants. It encompasses over 560 national wildlife refuges across the country, providing a wide range of highly biodiverse and landscape-diverse habitats. These refuges protect wetlands, forests, deserts, grasslands, and coastal areas, supporting thousands of species, including endangered and threatened wildlife.
Q: What is the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge Association?
A: Our mission is to protect, promote, and enhance the Refuge System for the benefit of wildlife, ecosystems, and people.
Visiting a National Wildlife Refuge
Q: How can I find a national wildlife refuge near me?
A: Use the Refuge Finder on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website to locate a national wildlife refuge near you.
Q: Are there any fees to visit a national wildlife refuge?
A: Some refuges charge a small entrance fee, but many are free. Check the specific refuge’s website for details.
Q: What activities can I do at a national wildlife refuge?
A: Activities include birdwatching, hiking, photography, fishing, and environmental education. Some refuges also allow regulated hunting.
Q: Can I bring my pet to a national wildlife refuge?
A: Pets are allowed on many refuges but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Always check specific refuge regulations.
Supporting the National Wildlife Refuge Association
Q: How can I support the National Wildlife Refuge Association?
A: Support our work by signing up for our newsletter, making a donation, volunteering, or advocating for policies that protect the Refuge System.
Q: Can I volunteer at a national wildlife refuge?
A: Yes! Many refuges have volunteer programs. Contact your local refuge or visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service volunteer page to learn more.
Q: What is our Refuge Friends program?
A: Our Refuge Friends program supports local nonprofit volunteer groups working with specific national wildlife refuges. These groups help with outreach, education, and habitat restoration projects. Learn more on our Refuge Friends page.
Programs and Initiatives
Q: What are 'Refuge Watch' and 'Refuge Friends Webinars'?
A: 'Refuge Watch' is our monthly email newsletter with the latest news, events, and stories from the Refuge System, sign up here. 'Refuge Friends Webinars' are monthly educational webinars for Refuge Friends groups and supporters, sign up here.
Q: What are the 'Wildlife Refuge Awards'?
A: The Wildlife Refuge Awards are an annual celebration honoring individuals and groups who have significantly contributed to the Refuge System. This event highlights heroes dedicated to wildlife conservation. The Refuge Association gives out awards for Refuge Manager, Refuge Employee, Refuge Advocate, Refuge Volunteer, and Refuge Friends Group of the year.
Contact Us
Q: How can I contact the National Wildlife Refuge Association?
A: Reach us through our Contact Us page, email nwra@refugeassociation.org, or connect with us on social media.