Washington, DC

Habitat loss is one of the main drivers of the biodiversity crisis and today, Urban National Wildlife Refuge Day, is a call to action. We must act to protect habitat for imperiled species and provide access to nature for all- specifically in Riverside County, California, one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. 

“Many Americans think wildlife refuges can only exist far away from cities and highly populated areas. By protecting remaining habitat and providing equitable access to nature, Riverside County could be a leading example that shows how highly urbanized areas can play a critical role in the future of conservation,” said Pamela Flick, California program director with Defenders of Wildlife.

Defenders of Wildlife is working with the Hispanic Access Foundation to urge the California Delegation and all members of Congress to act swiftly to pass legislation to establish the Western Riverside County National Wildlife Refuge in Southern California. If enacted, this legislation would protect vulnerable species, help close the nature gap for underserved populations, and support sustainable development.


 

For over 75 years, Defenders of Wildlife has remained dedicated to protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.1 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on X @Defenders.

  

Media Contact

News

Image
2022.06.12 - Female Caribou - Teshekpuk Lake - Alaska - Ashley Sabatino-BLM.jpg
WASHINGTON, D.C.

Defenders applauds BLM’s move to maintain land protections in Alaska

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) today released its final review and proposal to retain environmental protections on 28 million acres of habitat critical to
Image
Gray Wolf Stare
Washington, DC

Defenders Statement on ‘Hatchet Job’ House Interior Appropriations Bill

The U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations’ Interior and Environment Subcommittee today released its appropriations bill for the upcoming fiscal year. The bill is riddled with an immense number of riders that severely undermine the lifesaving protections of the Endangered Species Act. It also rolls back key advances made during the Biden administration towards addressing the biodiversity and climate crises.