Conservation and Planning
Biologists, planners, technical writers and GIS specialists work together to plan the future of National Wildlife Refuges. They work with refuge staff, the public, and other Service programs to create Comprehensive Conservation Plans for individual refuges. The Comprehensive Conservation Plans cover all aspects of refuge management for the next 15 years; including habitat improvements, research, outreach, and visitor services. They also work with local communities, landowners, government agencies, and conservation groups to plan where lands and waters should be protected for endangered species, migratory birds, and biologically unique or diverse habitats. The GIS specialists also provide technical assistance to refuge biologists and others seeking to use GIS as a management tool.