Recommendation 13 – Urban Wildlife Refuges (page 20 in Draft Vision Document). Create an urban refuge initiative that defines and evaluates elements of excellence in our existing urban refuges, establishes the framework for creating new urban refuge partnership opportunities, and implements a refuge presence in 10 demographically and geographically varied cities across America by 2015.
Join our LIVE CHAT on this topic on Wednesday, July 13 from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., from 2:15 pm – 3:15 pm, and from 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm.

Is anyone out there?

Our group ideas so far: emphasize partnerships, convene a summit to define urban refuges

Group discussion: we need to be forthright about the challenges of urban refuges. The document paints a pretty picture.

Revisit the 1991 Urban Refuges Policy. Address the issue of urbanization impacting existing refuges.

Optimize green space — need to work for wildlife purposes at urban refuges.

Vision document should include communication and coordination with other Federal agencies and other partners. With current budget situation, should work with other partners with experience in urban environmental education.

Leverage resources for acquisition dollars. Some local acquisition $$ can protect the land but can’t staff it or do the education. We can work together to fill in the holes.