A Week on the Hill: Advocacy, Momentum, and Meaningful Connections

Last week was a full and fast-paced week in Washington, D.C., as National Wildlife Refuge Association board members and staff came together for our Fly-In—meeting directly with lawmakers, partners, and allies to advocate for the future of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

With a packed schedule of meetings across both the House and Senate, this year’s Fly-In was nothing short of impactful. From conversations with congressional offices to time spent with key committees and partners, we gathered valuable insights that will shape our work in the weeks and months ahead. 

Turning Conversations into Action

This week wasn’t just about showing up—it was about moving priorities forward. Across meetings, we emphasized the urgent funding and staffing challenges facing the Refuge System. Today, refuges are being asked to do more with less, as budgets fail to keep pace with inflation and staffing levels continue to decline.

We also reinforced key legislative priorities, including:

• Reauthorizing the Legacy Restoration Fund in the Great American Outdoors Act to address critical maintenance needs across refuges

• Increasing funding for refuge transportation infrastructure to improve access, safety, and habitat connectivity

These aren’t abstract policy discussions—they are real solutions that directly impact the health of wildlife habitats and the communities that rely on them.

A Week Full of Energy on the Hill

We weren’t alone in Washington. The Hill was buzzing with activity, as several conservation and outdoor recreation organizations held Fly-Ins at the same time—including the Endangered Species Act Coalition, American Bird Conservancy, and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. That shared presence underscored the growing momentum behind protecting public lands and wildlife.

Moments That Matter

Amid the busy schedule of meetings and constant movement across Capitol Hill, there were also meaningful moments to pause and connect. From an evening at the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership dinner—where we had the opportunity to see Secretary Burgum and take a photo together—with partners and advocates, to a walk through the U.S. Botanic Garden between meetings, these experiences added energy and perspective to the week. A highlight was a behind-the-scenes visit to the Smithsonian’s bird collection, guided by Rebecca Johnson and Christopher Milensky, whose expertise offered a powerful reminder of the incredible biodiversity we are working to protect. Together, these moments grounded our work—connecting policy to purpose.

Looking Ahead

While the week may be wrapping up, the work is just beginning. The insights, relationships, and momentum built during this Fly-In will directly inform our advocacy strategy moving forward.

We leave Washington energized, grateful, and ready to act—continuing to ensure that the National Wildlife Refuge System has the resources, staff, and support it needs to thrive for generations to come.

To everyone who made this week possible: thank you.

To learn more about our 2026 Congressional agenda, tune in to our member webinar, Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 2:00-3:00pm ET.