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Where we work Grasslands, Aridlands and Forests Public Lands

Protecting Our National Wildlife Refuges: A Vital Investment for Birds, People, and the Economy

Discover how the National Wildlife Refuge System drives local economies, provides recreational opportunities, and protects birds.

Protecting and expanding the National Wildlife Refuge System is key to conserving bird populations, maintaining healthy ecosystems, and connecting people with nature. These public lands support over 800 bird species, generate $3.2 billion in annual economic activity, and sustain more than 41,000 jobs. Refuges also provide accessible outdoor spaces that benefit local communities through recreation, tourism, and small business opportunities. More than 96 million Americans engage in birdwatching every year, many visiting wildlife refuges, alongside millions more who fish, hunt, and photograph wildlife.

Visitors to national wildlife refuges generate an estimated $3.2 billion in local economic activity annually.

福利姬视频鈥檚 connection to refuges dates back over a century to the founding of the first refuge at Pelican Island. Since then, 福利姬视频 supporters nationwide have partnered with refuges on conservation projects in every region. With 573 refuges across every state and territory, the system offers exceptional birding opportunities and vital habitat.

The future of birds depends on these places. As habitat loss and environmental pressures grow, sustained investment is critical to maintaining infrastructure, healthy habitats, and public access. The refuge system workforce has been cut by 29% over the last 15 years, even as visitation hase grown by 53%. A robust budget for the National Wildlife Refuge System is essential to ensure these public lands remain accessible and resilient for generations to come.

570+
National Wildlife Refuges
Spanning over 95 million acres, these protected lands provide vital bird habitat and access to nature for communities across the country.
800+
Bird species
National Wildlife Refuges protects more than 800 species of birds across seasons and habitats.
$3.2+
Billion in economic impact
Recreational visits to refuges generate approximately $3.2 billion in local economic activity annually.
Sandhill_Cranes_Alaska_Minden
福利姬视频
Public Lands
Protecting public lands, not only for birds but for future generations, is part 福利姬视频鈥檚 DNA.
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