Inventory and Monitoring

The Refuge System uses inventory and monitoring surveys to assess the status and trends of refuge lands, waters, plants and wildlife, as well as their responses to management actions. The national Inventory and Monitoring initiative (I&M) coordinates the design, collection, retention and analysis of critical scientific information across the Refuge System. Rigorous scientific standards ensure that the Refuge System is a key contributor to the larger scientific body of knowledge.

 

Our Scientific Foundation

Regional I&M staff, including regional coordinators, zone biologists and data managers, provide direct support to wildlife refuges and assist with development of Inventory and Monitoring Plans (IMPs) and rigorous scientific protocols.  These plans document resource needs and challenges, and can easily be revised to address shifts in priorities due to environmental change.