National Wildlife Refuges During the Shutdown

Today, while updating a post here about one of the National Wildlife Refuges, I came upon this message when I landed on their website:

Shutdown Notice

Due to the current lapse of federal appropriations:

• this website may not be up to date;
• transactions submitted via this website might not be processed until appropriations are enacted; and
• we may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted.

For more information, please visit https://www.doi.gov/shutdown

This is one of the effects of a government shutdown that might not be noticed unless you are out in nature. During the current government shutdown, National Wildlife Refuges are significantly affected, primarily by a reduction or cessation of most services and public access areas.

Key impacts based on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) contingency plans and reports from the current situation (which began on October 1, 2025):

• Public Access: Many refuge lands, including Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs), may remain open to the public, particularly open areas like trails and non-gated driving routes. However, facilities that require staffing will be closed or unavailable.

• Visitor Services:

  • Visitor centers, facilities, and gated areas are generally closed.

  • Staffed services such as informational services, educational programs, and special events cease.

  • Restrooms, sanitation, and trash collection may be limited or stop, which can lead to negative environmental impacts if visitors still access the land.

  • Websites are often not updated.

• Staffing: The majority of USFWS employees are furloughed (temporarily laid off without pay).

• Essential Staff: A small number of "excepted" personnel remain on duty for essential functions, primarily:

  • Law enforcement officers to protect life and property.

  • Animal caretakers to ensure the welfare of animals in captivity or under management.

• Refuge Operations: Critical functions like biological research, monitoring, and management are often halted. Work funded by yearly appropriations ceases.

In short, while some outdoor spaces at National Wildlife Refuges may technically be accessible, most services are unavailable, and the land is largely unmanaged, which raises concerns about potential vandalism and resource damage. It is advisable to check local announcements or non-federal sources for the most up-to-date information on a specific refuge, as the level of access can vary.