The Giving Goose and Blue Goose Marsh painting by Paule Gingras; a new way to support the refuge and memorialize loved ones. - Photo Credit: ken sturm/usfws

On the refuge's International Migratory Bird Day celebration, the refuge in conjunction with the Friends of Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Mark and Chris Sweeny and artist Paule Gingras unveiled a new feature of the refuge visitor's center: "The Giving Goose". Conceptualized by former refuge manager Mark Sweeny and his wife Chris as a dedication to Chris's father, the project aims to memorialize loved ones while giving back to the refuge system.

Mounted on a donated original painting by Paule Gingras entitled "Blue Goose Marsh", 50 brass "blue geese" are available for adoption. Individuals will purchase a goose for $350.00 and have their loved one's name engraved. The goose will be permanently mounted on Gingras' painting to show the individual's and families support for the refuge system. The money collected will go directly the Friends of the Missisquoi NWR to support refuge management and environmental education and interpretation.