News
President Geoffrey Haskett of the National Wildlife Refuge Association testified before Congress on the proposed revisions to the Biological Integrity, Diversity, and Environmental Health (BIDEH) rule for the National Wildlife Refuge System.
The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, a crown jewel of the National Wildlife Refuge System, faces a critical juncture. A proposed strip mine, located a mere stone's throw from its borders, threatens to disrupt this irreplaceable ecosystem. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division recently released revised permits for the Twin Pines Minerals project after considering public comments from last year. These revised permits, however, do not adequately address the significant environmental risks the mine poses to Okefenokee NWR.
Congress recently passed a package of several fiscal year (FY) 2024 spending bills, including the Department of the Interior, Environment and Related Agencies bill that funds the National Wildlife Refuge System. This spending bill will cut $14.5 million from the National Wildlife Refuge System’s Operations & Maintenance budget, or a 2.6% reduction from FY2023 levels. Notably, this bill also does not provide funding to cover the 5.2% pay increase for federal employees that went into effect in January. It costs the Refuge System an estimated $3
Dan Ashe, a lifelong hunter, emeritus board member of the National Wildlife Refuge Association, and former director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, calls for Maryland to join the movement towards responsible hunting practices. His recent article in The Baltimore Sun highlights the critical issue of lead ammunition's harmful effects on both wildlife and public health.
Florida Panthers are subspecies of Mountain Lion and are known for their elusive nature. They are highly independent and territorial, except when mating or raising kittens. Compared to other subspecies, Florida Panthers have characteristics of a crooked tail, unique patches on their fur, and black markings that highlight the tips of their tails, ears, and snout. They prefer warm climates like swamps, wetlands, and upland forests. In the past, their range extended beyond Florida, and many wild panthers were spotted in the Gulf Coast states, between Florida and Louisiana, and even in Arkansas. However, today, a majority of the remaining wild panthers can be found only in the southwestern tip of Florida, with an estimated population of just over 200 individuals.
Red wolves desperately require your help at this moment. This remarkable species, known for its intelligence and stunning beauty, plays a vital role as an apex predator in its ecosystem. Protecting red wolves is crucial for maintaining a balanced and healthy environment. The survival of this species is in grave danger, and they are on the verge of extinction.
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.
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.
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.
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.
