America’s National Wildlife Refuge System is turning 113 on March 14. Backcountry Hunters & Anglers thinks this milestone is worthy of a celebration – and a time to offer thanks for a job well done.

Thanks to strong and foresighted management by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, our wildlife refuges provide vital habitat for thousands of species and valuable public access to sportsmen and other outdoor recreationists. 

Theodore Roosevelt established the nation’s first refuge on March 14, 1903, at Pelican Island, Florida. Since then, the refuge system has grown to encompass more than 560 wildlife refuges and 38 wetland management districts located all across the country. Hunting and angling play an important role in the management of fish and wildlife populations on many of these properties and present opportunities for time afield during an era where sportsmen's access is steadily decreasing.

However, between shrinking budgets, political interference and, increasingly, public criticism, few tougher jobs exist than being a federal land manager. USFWS staffers are committed to protecting the lands they administer – and balancing a lot of competing uses.

Let’s stand up and support our National Wildlife Refuge System and its dedicated employees. Add your signature below to show your heartfelt thanks and continued support as a public lands sportsman.

View a complete list of hunting and angling opportunities in America's national wildlife refuge system.