Review of National Wildlife Refuges Sparks Concerns Over Potential Sell-Off

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is conducting a comprehensive review of the National Wildlife Refuge System and national fish hatcheries, initiated by a directive from Director Brian Nesvik on December 16, 2025. This review aims to assess whether certain sites are still aligned with the agency's mission and to identify opportunities for operational efficiencies. Senior Advisor Joshua Coursey, a proponent of wildlife conservation, is leading the review of wildlife refuges, while Acting Deputy Director for Operations David Miko oversees the fish hatcheries.

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A group of seven former high-ranking officials from the USFWS has expressed significant concerns regarding the expedited nature of this review. They argue that the timeline, which requires an initial summary by January 5 and a detailed report by February 15, is insufficient for such a critical analysis. The retirees emphasized that the review should adhere to the specific purposes for which each refuge was established, as mandated by federal laws. They warned that the USFWS lacks broad authority to dispose of refuge lands, which can only be done through congressional action.

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Critics, including Aaron Weiss from the Center for Western Priorities, fear that the review could lead to the divestment of federal lands, which are vital for public access and wildlife conservation. Weiss highlighted that wildlife refuges often provide affordable access to nature compared to national parks, which can be more costly to visit. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal, for example, transformed from a chemical weapons site to a habitat for bison and black-footed ferrets, exemplifying the potential of these refuges.

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While the USFWS has not publicly commented on the concerns raised, it has indicated that it is open to feedback from staff and partners regarding the review. Nesvik acknowledged the retirees' input, stating that their insights would be considered as the review progresses. Desiree Sorenson-Groves, president of the National Wildlife Refuge Association, expressed cautious support for the review, emphasizing the need to understand the complexities involved.

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The expedited review process has drawn criticism not only from former officials but also from conservationists who worry about the implications for wildlife habitats and public access. The retirees' email to Nesvik articulated their belief that a thorough review requires more time and resources to ensure a thoughtful outcome. They also pointed out that the review's focus on operational efficiency might overshadow the specific conservation goals established for individual refuges.

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The USFWS is expected to finalize its recommendations by February 15, 2026. As the review unfolds, stakeholders, including the National Wildlife Refuge Association, plan to provide feedback to ensure that the interests of wildlife conservation and public access are adequately represented. The outcome of this review could have lasting implications for the management and future of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

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• “Such a large and important analysis should certainly be given more time and resources to develop a thoughtful and useful product,” — Retired USFWS Officials

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• “You don’t just divest refuges, as they [the retirees] pointed out in that letter. There’s a process, most of them are public processes, and there would have to be a really good reason.” — Desiree Sorenson-Groves, President of the National Wildlife Refuge Association

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• “If that is the case, then we will deal with that,” — Desiree Sorenson-Groves, President of the National Wildlife Refuge Association

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