Charles M. Russell
National Wildlife Refuge,
Environmental Management System Implementation
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge
303-984-6868, Mike Hedrick
Lewistown, Montana
Environmental Management Systems
Left to Right: Mike Hedrick, Gale Norton, Mike Granger
The Charles M. Russell (CMR) National Wildlife Refuge is one of the first sites in the Department to implement an Environmental Management System (EMS) and it has done so commendably. An Environmental Management System is a collection of policies, plans, practices, activities, and evaluations that ensure environmental goals are met. The EMS created an Environmental Management Plan which identified Refuge operations' environmental impacts, set goals and targets to improve environmental performance, and introduced a Refuge-wide Environmental Management Policy. To implement the Plan, CMR purchased one hybrid vehicle and three diesel pickup trucks (58% more fuel efficient and fueled with biodiesel). Staff use re-refined oil in all Refuge vehicles; recycle paper, oil, antifreeze, fluorescent bulbs and steel; and purchase products made with recycled content. Most importantly, environmentally preferable practices are a part of every day life for CMR employees who are given responsibility for environmental performance in their personal performance plans and who receive training to safely and competently fulfill their environmental duties. CMR's environmental goals undergo several self-assessments, results are reported, and any goals not met are specifically addressed. Positive implementation of Environmental Management Systems is a key to meeting the Department's environmental compliance requirements and to go beyond compliance to achieve environmentally sustainable practices.
Accepting the Award:
Mike Hedrick, Refuge Manager
Mike Granger, FWS
Left to Right: Jim Kurth, Mike Granger, Mike Hedrick, Steven Griles