Press Release
Posted:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Mike Thompson (CA-04) and Robert Wittman (VA-01) introduced a resolution designating the week of October 11-18, 2025, as National Wildlife Refuge Week.
The resolution celebrates the diversity of ecosystems and wildlife found in our national wildlife refuges and the many recreational activities that they support, including hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. Since President Theodore Roosevelt created the first U.S. national wildlife refuge in 1903, the National Wildlife Refuge System has served a critical role in wildlife conservation. The national wildlife refuges have been strong drivers of economic growth for local communities across the country, generating billions of dollars each year.
“America’s national wildlife refuges are among our greatest conservation success stories,” said Thompson. “They safeguard habitat, protect endangered species, and give people from all walks of life the chance to experience the natural beauty of our country. National Wildlife Refuge Week is a celebration of that legacy and a reminder that protecting these lands for future generations is a responsibility we all share.”
"The First District of Virginia is home to unique and special ecosystems. As a former state health official who conducted field research in the Chesapeake Bay, I am aware of the ecological challenges facing Virginia waters, wetlands, and refuges and I know the importance of taking care of our environment for future generations. Providing for the protection and security of these resources is absolutely vital,” said Wittman. “This resolution reiterates my support for our nation’s refuges."
Today, the national wildlife refuge system includes 573 refuges, 38 wetland management districts, and 5 marine national monuments spanning more than 850 million acres across all 50 states and U.S. territories. National wildlife refuges receive 71 million annual visitors, generating $3.2 billion for local economies and supporting over 41,000 jobs.
A longtime outdoorsman and conservationist himself, Thompson has helped conserve nearly 5 million acres of North American wetlands and uplands through his legislative work and his work with the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission.
In addition to Reps. Thompson and Wittman, the resolution’s original cosponsors include Representatives Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), and Jill Tokuda (HI-02).
Senators Coons and Kennedy have introduced a companion resolution in the Senate.