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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.
Defenders of Wildlife is celebrating 75 years of protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.2 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife heritage for generations to come. For more information, visit defenders.org/newsroom and follow us on Twitter @Defenders.
