National Wildlife Refuge Association Supports Efforts to Connect More Americans with the Outdoors
For Immediate Release May 28th, 2026
Contact: Eden Taylor etaylor@refugeassociation.org
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the nation marks its 250th anniversary year, the National Wildlife Refuge Association applauds the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for its continued work to provide more opportunities for the American people to experience the outdoors through hunting, fishing, and other wildlife-dependent recreation on national wildlife refuges.
National wildlife refuges have long welcomed Americans to enjoy the outdoors through compatible wildlife-dependent recreation, including hunting and fishing. These traditions support local communities, strengthen our shared conservation ethic, and help people experience the wildlife and wild places that make the National Wildlife Refuge System so special. As access opportunities grow, each use must continue to meet the Refuge System’s legal requirements.
“National wildlife refuges are first and foremost places for wildlife conservation,” said Desirée Sorenson-Groves, President & CEO of the National Wildlife Refuge Association. “Hunting and fishing have a long and important history on refuges, and any new or expanded opportunities must be carefully evaluated through the required compatibility process to ensure it supports both responsible public access and the wildlife conservation mission of the Refuge System.”
According to the Department of the Interior, the proposed 2026-2027 hunting and sport fishing rule would open or expand hunting and fishing opportunities on 107 national wildlife refuges and 4 national fish hatcheries, including first-time opportunities at several units.
“Compatible wildlife-dependent recreation is one of the great strengths of the Refuge System,” said Sorenson-Groves. “The key is ensuring that refuge managers and staff have the science, staffing, and enforcement capacity, and public input they need to make responsible access decisions that benefit people, wildlife, and local communities.”
For generations, national wildlife refuges have brought Americans together around a shared love of wildlife, outdoor traditions, and the places that sustain them. The National Wildlife Refuge Association remains committed to supporting responsible access that inspires people, strengthens communities, and protects the wildlife and habitats at the heart of the Refuge System.
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As the only nonprofit solely dedicated to supporting the National Wildlife Refuge System, the National Wildlife Refuge Association protects, promotes, and enhances America’s wildlife heritage through strategic programs that serve the Refuge System and wildlife beyond its boundaries. The organization addresses Refuge System funding, management, and strategic growth, while also promoting programs that maximize the system’s conservation impact.
