Big news for national wildlife refuges! Congressional leaders just released a funding bill to keep the government running through March 14, 2025 (coincidentally the anniversary of the National Wildlife Refuge System!). But even more exciting, this bill includes $500 million for disaster relief to repair national wildlife refuges damaged by hurricanes, floods, and severe storms. The funding bill’s final passage and signing by President Biden is anticipated by the end of the week.

This funding comes at an important time. While it falls short of the $581 million we requested, it represents a huge step forward for wildlife conservation and community support. Without this funding, many wildlife refuges faced the risk of permanent damage, jeopardizing both wildlife and habitats, ecosystem protections for communities, and recreational opportunities for people. 

Your Advocacy Made This Happen

This victory for refuges didn’t happen in a vacuum. It happened because Refuge Supporters all across the country took action. Over 80 Refuge Friends groups came together to sign a powerful letter to Congress, joined by strong support from partners like Defenders of Wildlife and Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA). Together, we delivered a clear message: our refuges need funding to recover and continue protecting the wildlife and communities they serve. Check out the fact sheet here >>

Not only did you sign letters, but many of you also submitted damage photos and summaries that painted a compelling picture of the urgent need for this funding. Our partners, CORFA, and Friends groups worked tirelessly to get this in front of decision-makers— and your efforts paid off! 

Where The Funding Will Go

This $500 million will help repair damage caused by storms, hurricanes, and other disasters. Refuges like Merritt Island, Lower Suwaneee, Don Edwards San Francisco Bay, Guam, Cape Romain, and others have all faced significant damage, including:

Rebuilding roads, bridges, and facilities

Restoring damaged habitats 

Repairing levees and water control structures

The Work Continues

While this is a major win, the bill did not include $300 million for nature-based solutions— proactive investments that help refuges protect communities from future disasters. This is a gap we’ll be working to fill. Stay tuned for more opportunities to advocate for these and other critical investments in the Refuge System early next year.

Thank you for being a champion for national wildlife refuges.