By U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has temporarily suspended all entrance fees at national wildlife refuges until further notice. Almost 500 refuges are already open to the public.
States and municipalities have implemented similar fee waivers at outdoor sites in an effort to support social distancing.
Outdoor spaces remain open to the public at most refuges where it is currently possible to adhere to public health guidance. Many facilities such as visitor centers, however, will be closed. Visitors are asked to check the local refuge’s web page before visiting.
"The health of our visitors is our number one priority,” said Service Director Aurelia Skipwith. “When CDC guidance is followed, a national wildlife refuge can be the perfect antidote to cabin fever and a boon to our mental wellbeing during this unprecedented time.”
Visitors are asked to do their part when visiting a refuge or hatchery by following CDC guidelines and maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other people; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick.
Specifically, the CDC recommends high-risk populations, such as the elderly and people with underlying conditions, take extra precautions to be best protected against the spread of coronavirus.
Updates about the Service response to the coronavirus will be posted online.