Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge

The mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System is to administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management and, where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

Our Purpose

Every national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge
A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

Learn more about national wildlife refuge was created for a special purpose. Some were created to protect migratory birds, others to protect threatened or endangered species or unique habitats, while others fulfill another special purpose. Refuges are special places where wildlife comes first. All activities allowed on refuges must be evaluated to make sure each activity will not conflict with the reason the refuge was founded. 

Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge is the first refuge in the country built from the ground up under the Urban Wildlife Conservation Program’s Standard of Excellence for Urban National Wildlife Refuges. These eight standards are the foundation of our work here:  

• Know and Relate to the Community  
• Deepen Connections with Nature via Stepping Stones of Engagement  
• Build Partnerships 
• Be a Community Asset  
• Ensure Adequate Long-Term Resources  
• Provide Equitable Access  
• Ensure Visitors Feel Safe and Welcome  
• Model Sustainability  

Our Vision

Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge uses an innovative and collaborative approach to connect people with wildlife, plants and the land by providing equitable and just ways to deepen personal relationships with nature. The refuge balances healthy natural habitat management with opportunities for education, visitor engagement, youth employment, community involvement and stewardship. 

Our Values

Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge staff, interns and volunteers are committed to the following values as fundamental and foundational principles of the refuge. These values guide how we work and interact with one another, our partners and our greater community.

Intentional and Adaptable

Consciously working toward a shared vision and goals and continuously reflecting and sharing successes, mistakes and lessons learned.      

Innovative and Continually Learning

Taking risks to broaden the breadth and depth of work accomplished in the field of conservation to include: community engagement, art, culture, technology, social and environmental justice. Committing to continuously learn from each other, community members, partners and stakeholders to keep approaches fresh and relevant.     

Respectful and Kind

Honoring the knowledge of our mission, staff, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, stakeholders, community and surrounding cultures. Refuge staff are approachable, respectful and kind, and actively listen to the needs and concerns of others (colleagues, volunteers, partners, and community members) and respond appropriately in thoughtful ways.   

Credible

Building and maintaining trust in the community, working to be transparent, realistic and patient with staff, partners and community members as the refuge grows and changes.  

Accessible and Just

Providing equitable and inclusive opportunities and meaningful connection to nature for people of diverse backgrounds, economic standings, abilities, and ages.  

Collaborative

Intentionally and collaboratively working with colleagues, partners, volunteers and community members to make decisions and take action. We believe that our combined effect is greater when we work together and have many voices at the table.