Since the minnesota valley national wildlife refuge (refuge) was established in 1976, citizens have been involved with the expansion and enhancement of the over 14,000 acres of protected habitat for…

Since the minnesota valley national wildlife refuge (refuge) was established in 1976, citizens have been involved with the expansion and enhancement of the over 14,000 acres of protected habitat for both wildlife and lovers of the outdoors. As a priority urban national wildlife refuge, minnesota valley strives to be an asset within the local community and a model of community-centered wildlife conservation for the U.S. Fish and wildlife service (service) the purpose of the non-profit minnesota valley refuge friends (friends) is to assist the refuge in accomplishing its mission of working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance the fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefits of the american people. The friends promote the refuge and support the various educational and conservation programs to create a connected conservation community by ensuring everyone can learn about, discover and enjoy the great outdoors. With the funding for the community engagement in conservation program the friends will expand and empower long-term transformational relationships with community partners to serve as a community asset and increase the refuges collective impacts of its conservation efforts. This will be achieved by: cultivating and strengthening new local partnerships providing meaningful nature and outdoor education and recreational experiences for local communities.