U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.

What's going on at FWS

With more than 560 National Wildlife Refuges, 70 national fish hatcheries, numerous regional and field offices across the country and thousands of active conservation projects, the nearly 8,000 employees of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service have a lot going on. Here are a few of the latest news stories from across the Service...

Endangered Species Act

Monarch Butterfly Proposed for Endangered Species Act Protection

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing protection for one of the nation’s most beloved species, the monarch butterfly, and is encouraging the public to be part of its recovery. The Service is seeking public input on a proposal to list the species as threatened with species-specific...

Dec 10, 2024

colorful kayas line the bank of a river with trees on the opposite bank

Habitat Restoration

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Mark Major Milestones for the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation today joined elected officials, funding partners and grantees to mark 7 years of vital conservation projects made possible through the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund.

Dec 9, 2024

A blue sign with "Selawik National Wildlife Refuge" in text and an illustration of sheefish with a geometric design at the bottom

History and Culture

Sunsets and Sheefish

A new sign at Selawik National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska reflects Indigenous culture through berry colors, traditional parka designs, and local wildlife. Artist Norma Ballot collaborated with refuge staff to create artwork that celebrates seasonal rhythms and community knowledge, transforming a...

Dec 5, 2024

A small brown animal sits on gray rocks in front of a lake and mountain background

Land Management

Snow Lakes or Bust

Eighteen miles of hiking in the mountains with 5,000 feet of elevation gain in one day – yes, please? Join Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery staff on an age-old pilgrimage into the mountains for the benefit of salmon, habitat, and people.

Dec 2, 2024

U.S. Capitol building in the sun with tops of trees in foreground

Coastal Barrier Resources System Expands under Reauthorization

On November 25, 2024, President Joe Biden signed into law the BEACH Act. This bipartisan legislation reauthorizes and makes the most significant changes to the CBRA since 1990.

Nov 26, 2024

A view of the forested hills leads to a large open body of water below

The Highlands Conservation Act grant program at 20

Since 2004, the Highlands Conservation Act grant program has protected more than 16,000 acres in the Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Connecticut Highlands, putting conservation “on the map” for people and wildlife. As it marks two decades, the program has an expanded reach and updated...

Nov 25, 2024

Our Focus

The history of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can be traced back to 1871. We are the only federal government agency whose primary responsibility is to manage fish and wildlife resources in the public trust for people today and future generations. Here are just a few of our focus areas...

Director's Priorities

aerial view of wetlands, boreal forest, and a river

National Wildlife Refuges

a small bird with a cricket in its mouth being held by a biologist

Protecting Wildlife

Climate Change

National Fish Hatchery Systems

Law Enforcement

What We Do For You

If you’re looking for places to experience nature; interested in partnering with us; seeking technical advice, permits, grants, data or scientific research; want to know more about today’s conservation challenges; looking for ways on how you can get involved and make a difference -- the Service has a lot to offer and more…

Partners for Fish and Wildlife: Landowners (Heguy Family) Meet with Partners for Fish and Wildlife Biologist Chris Jasmine and Carol Evans of the Bureau of Land Management to Review Progress

Visit Us - Our Locations

With more than 560 national wildlife refuges, dozens of national fish hatcheries and more than 100 field offices, there are numerous great U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service locations to visit.