Story perspectives

Trump's Wildlife Refuge Review Sparks Concerns Among Experts

1/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Trump administration's review of the National Wildlife Refuge System is led by Josh Coursey, prompting concerns from former officials about its expedited process.
Seven experienced retirees warn that the review may neglect the specific purposes of various refuges and emphasize that federal law prohibits land disposal without Congressional approval.
The review will evaluate 573 refuges and other sites, with initial findings due by January 5, 2021, and final recommendations by February 15, 2021.
The agency is not soliciting public comments but permits anonymous feedback from staff.

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Story summary

The Trump administration's review of the National Wildlife Refuge System is led by Josh Coursey, prompting concerns from former officials about its expedited process.
Seven experienced retirees warn that the review may neglect the specific purposes of various refuges and emphasize that federal law prohibits land disposal without Congressional approval.
The review will evaluate 573 refuges and other sites, with initial findings due by January 5, 2021, and final recommendations by February 15, 2021.
The agency is not soliciting public comments but permits anonymous feedback from staff.