National Wildlife Refuge Week

Summary#

This Senate resolution designates the week beginning October 12, 2025, as "National Wildlife Refuge Week." It notes the role of the National Wildlife Refuge System, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in conserving fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats. The resolution lists facts from the system’s history and scope (first refuge established in 1903 at Pelican Island; 573 refuges, 38 wetland management districts, and 5 marine national monuments), species supported, and acreage. It also records visitor, volunteer, and economic figures and recognizes work with Tribes and urban communities. The resolution encourages observance and recognizes the refuges’ conservation, recreation, education, and local economic roles.

What it means for you#

• The Senate officially names the week starting October 12, 2025, as National Wildlife Refuge Week and encourages events and activities during that week.
• The resolution highlights that refuges provide recreation (hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, education) and support local economies.
• The bill cites system-wide facts you can expect to see referenced in materials during that week: nearly 71,000,000 annual visits, more than $3,200,000,000 in local economic activity, about 41,000 jobs supported, and many volunteer hours and community programs.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

Supporters say the designation recognizes over a century of conservation, raises awareness about wildlife and refuges, celebrates recreational and educational opportunities, affirms refuge contributions to local economies, and acknowledges work with Tribes, Alaska Native entities, the Native Hawaiian community, and urban communities to broaden access and co-stewardship.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.