Policies
Whatever the tool, whether it's for official Service communication or an employee's personal use; we use social media in accordance with all applicable federal laws, the Department of the Interior social media policy, digital media guidelines and the requirements and policies outlined here.
Additional relevant policies
Comment Policy
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) values the opportunity to engage with the public through social media. These comment guidelines aim to foster a respectful and constructive environment for discussions about wildlife conservation, habitats, and related topics.
General Guidelines
- Be Respectful: Engage in discussions respectfully, keeping in mind that diverse opinions are welcome.
- Stay On Topic: Comments should be relevant to the specific post.
- Privacy Matters: Do not share personal information about yourself or others. Posts containing private information is not recommended.
Application of the First Amendment
The First Amendment protects individuals' rights to free speech; however, this right is not absolute. Comments posted on our social media pages represent the views of the individual commenters and do not necessarily reflect the views of the USFWS.
While users are encouraged to express their opinions, the USFWS reserves the right to manage its platforms, which includes moderating comments. While free speech is a valued right, certain types of comments will not be permitted, including but not limited to:
- Actual Threats: Comments that incite violence or contain credible threats against individuals or groups will be subject to removal.
- Copyright Violations: Sharing copyrighted material without permission or attribution can lead to comment removal and potential legal action by the copyright holder.
- Illegal Activities: Comments suggesting unlawful behavior or encouraging others to break the law can be removed and may be reported to law enforcement authorities.
- Malware or SPAM: Posts that contain links to malicious content, advertisements, or repetitive posts that disrupt the conversation can be removed.
- Obscenity: Any comments featuring obscene language, sexual content, or graphic imagery will not be accepted and can be subject to removal.
These comment guidelines reflect our commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for discussion and engagement on social media. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding in maintaining a constructive dialogue about wildlife conservation and related topics.
Additional Information
Communication made through official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service social media accounts, blogs, and/or online forums or groups will in no way constitute a legal or official notice or comment to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or any official or employee of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for any purpose.
References to commercial entities, products, services, or nongovernmental organizations or individuals are provided solely for information. These references are not intended to reflect the opinion of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the United States Government, or its officers or employees concerning the significance, priority, or importance to be given the referenced entity, product, service, or organization. Such references are not an official or personal endorsement of any product, person, or service and may not be quoted or reproduced for the purpose of stating or implying U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service endorsement or approval of any product, person, or service.
Reporters or other media representatives are asked to send questions through their normal channels (the appropriate FWS office public affairs or Office of Communications) and to refrain from submitting questions through official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service social media accounts, blogs, and/or online forums or groups as comments.
These social media guidelines are subject to amendment or modification at any time to ensure that its continued use is consistent with its intended purpose as a limited forum.
