Celebrating Success: The Remarkable Return of the Black-Footed Ferret

Celebrating Success: The Remarkable Return of the Black-Footed Ferret

During our Refuges For Recovery campaign, we highlight one of the Endangered Species Act's most iconic success stories: the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes). Not too long ago, these elusive creatures teetered on the brink of extinction, with only a handful left in the wild. Today, we're proud to say that the black-footed ferret population is steadily growing, thanks to the unwavering dedication and collaborative efforts of conservationists, scientists, and the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Proposed Everglades to Gulf Conservation Area Would Protect Lands Most Important To Wildlife & Waters

Proposed Everglades to Gulf Conservation Area Would Protect Lands Most Important To Wildlife & Waters

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is embarking on an ambitious new effort to establish an Everglades to Gulf Conservation Area (formerly known as the Southwest Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Area). If successful, a new conservation area would allow the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to work with willing landowners to protect the lands most important to our water and wildlife, in one of the most biologically diverse regions in our country. The USFWS has released a draft Everglades to Gulf Land Protection Plan and is seeking input.

Biden Administration Cancels Oil & Gas Leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

Biden Administration Cancels Oil & Gas Leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

In a momentous decision yesterday, the Biden administration announced the cancellation of the last remaining oil and gas leases on the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The announcement marked a significant victory for wildlife, the environment, and the Indigenous People who have tirelessly advocated for the conservation of this irreplaceable sanctuary.

Friends of Haystack Rock Awarded The 2023 O'Brien Prize For Refuge Friends

Friends of Haystack Rock Awarded The 2023 O'Brien Prize For Refuge Friends

The National Wildlife Refuge Association is thrilled to announce the winners of the prestigious 2023 O'Brien Prize for Refuge Friends. This annual honor recognizes the outstanding efforts of Refuge Friends Groups, who work tirelessly to protect and enhance the natural wonders of our national wildlife refuges.

Why Convening Matters for Collaborative Conservation: Establishing the building blocks for the politics of problem solving

Why Convening Matters for Collaborative Conservation: Establishing the building blocks for the politics of problem solving

Dive into an insightful guest blog by Lynn Scarlett, a board member of the National Wildlife Refuge Association and former Deputy Secretary of the Interior. Explore the importance of collaborative conservation efforts and how they're shaping a sustainable future for our natural world. Lynn sheds light on why coming together to solve environmental challenges is more crucial than ever.

Cape Cod's Coastal Crisis: "No Refuge" – A Documentary Unveils the Fight for Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge

Cape Cod's Coastal Crisis: "No Refuge" – A Documentary Unveils the Fight for Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge

The Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, nestled along the picturesque shores of Cape Cod, is renowned for its natural beauty and its role in conserving the region's delicate ecosystems. However, a looming threat, driven by climate change, now imperils this invaluable refuge. Erosion, accelerated by rising sea levels, is rapidly reshaping the landscape, challenging the very existence of the refuge's headquarters in Chatham.

Unveiling the Untamed Wonders of Izembek National Wildlife Refuge

Unveiling the Untamed Wonders of  Izembek National Wildlife Refuge

Step into a realm of untamed beauty and ecological wonder, where the symphony of nature's rhythms unfold in perfect harmony. Welcome to Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, an extraordinary sanctuary located on the Alaska Peninsula’s southern coast. In the safety of this national wildlife refuge that hosts an unparalleled diversity of life among its abundant eelgrass beds, the Pacific black brant finds its seasonal haven. As stewards of the land, we invite you to discover the hidden treasures of this fragile ecosystem and the urgent need to safeguard it.

What's a Flyway Anyway? Revealing The Mysteries of Bird Migratory Flyways

What's a Flyway Anyway? Revealing The Mysteries of Bird Migratory Flyways

In the grand symphony of nature, migratory animals take center stage, dancing to the rhythm of ancient patterns. Imagine the tales whispered in the winds as they traverse the vastness between breeding and wintering grounds. These tales are etched along the pathways known as migration flyways, intricate threads that weave through the aerial realm, guiding the delicate flight of insects and the majestic journey of birds.

Celebrating the 2022 O'Brien Prize Grantees: Honoring Indigenous Heritage at Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge

Celebrating the 2022 O'Brien Prize Grantees: Honoring Indigenous Heritage at Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge

At the National Wildlife Refuge Association, we take great pride in supporting conservation initiatives that not only protect national wildlife refuges but also celebrate the rich cultural heritage intertwined with these special public lands dedicated to wildlife. The 2022 O'Brien Prize, awarded to the Friends of Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, exemplifies the extraordinary efforts put forth by dedicated individuals who are committed to honoring and preserving the legacy of the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi.

Conserving Nature, Empowering Communities: Celebrating Latino Conservation Week in the National Wildlife Refuge System

Conserving Nature, Empowering Communities: Celebrating Latino Conservation Week in the National Wildlife Refuge System

As we embrace the spirit of Latino Conservation Week, we come together to honor and pay homage to the invaluable contributions made by the Latino community in our shared endeavor to conserve and protect wildlife and wild lands across the country. This year, we proudly support the congressional resolution proposing the official designation of the third week of July as Latino Conservation Week, introduced by Representative Nanette Barragán (D-CA) this week. Through this symbolic gesture, we signal our commitment to fostering sustainability, promoting inclusivity, and safeguarding the future of the National Wildlife Refuge System.