Senators Coons, Kennedy introduce National Wildlife Refuge Week resolution celebrating wildlife refuges’ value to local communities

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and John Kennedy (R-La.) introduced a resolution yesterday designating the week of October 13-19 2024, as National Wildlife Refuge Week.

The resolution celebrates the diversity of ecosystems and wildlife found in our national wildlife refuges and the many recreational activities that they support, including hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. Since President Theodore Roosevelt created the first U.S. national wildlife refuge in 1903, the National Wildlife Refuge System has served a critical role in wildlife conservation. The national wildlife refuges have been strong drivers of economic growth for local communities across the country, generating billions of dollars each year.

"For more than 100 years, the National Wildlife Refuge System has protected our wildlife and ecosystems in Delaware and across the nation while strengthening local economies," said Senator Coons. "Wildlife refuges like Bombay Hook and Prime Hook, which collectively cover more than 10,000 acres, maintain a healthy ecosystem, local aesthetics, and recreational opportunities in the First State. I am proud to lead the bipartisan National Wildlife Refuge Week resolution alongside Senator Kennedy as we continue to support and conserve biodiversity."

"Louisiana is home to more than 23 refuges that help protect our state's unique species and make us the sportsman's paradise," said Senator Kennedy. "This Wildlife Refuge Week, I am grateful for the opportunity to promote America's natural environment as we preserve these ecosystems for future generations to revel in and enjoy."

With more than 572 refuges, 38 wetland management districts, and five marine national monuments - located in every state and territory of the United States - the National Wildlife Refuge System contributes more than $3.2 billion to local economies annually and supports more than 41,000 jobs.

In addition to Senators Coons and Kennedy, the resolution is cosponsored by Senators Tom Carper (D-Del.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.).

The text of the resolution is available here.