Critical Elements of the Urban Wildlife Conservation Program

For the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Urban Wildlife Conservation Program is defined by four critical elements: community-focused, intentional, inclusive, and collaborative. They are the foundation of our Standards of Excellence for building long-term, meaningful relationships with urban communities, especially BIPOC communities. Each element is essential and interrelated. We measure every action against these elements so that we positively impact the planet and people and hold ourselves accountable to continual progress, not perfection. With this focus, the Urban Wildlife Conservation Program provides a model for addressing systemic racism and advancing equity in conservation.

Program
A bison grazing in the foreground with mountains and a city and electrical infrastructure in the background
The Urban Wildlife Conservation Program improves lives by expanding access to green space, education and outdoor recreation for Americans living in and around cities. Program members work to clear social and historical barriers and foster new connections that advance conservation and strengthen...
A bright blue sky obstructed by fluffy white clouds reflected off of a stream shot from inside a kayak
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages an unparalleled network of public lands and waters called the National Wildlife Refuge System. With more than 570 refuges spanning the country, this system protects iconic species and provides some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities on Earth.