Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
Arctic National Wildlife Refuge program page
The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is protected on an ecosystem scale for its unique plants, animals, and people. Defending this national treasure from devastating oil and gas development requires the public's constant vigilance. Take action now to keep the Arctic Refuge wild, safe, and whole for the future. We have great opportunity for stronger protection by the Fish & Wildlife Service's Conservation Plan.
At the same time, we fight oil drilling threats in Congress, like the "Directional Drilling" Trojan Horse scheme to get industry's foot in the door, or a possible rider on the deficit-reduction focused SuperBudget.
Defend the Refuge!
This year the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is making a plan for the Refuge's future. This Comprehensive Conservation Plan is your historic opportunity to add stronger wilderness protection for our Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and continue this wilderness legacy to future generations.
Arctic Refuge 101: What is “ANWR?”
Learn about the place behind the lingo and why conservationists reject the term “ANWR.”
The Land
The Arctic Refuge is one of America’s most valuable wilderness areas. Unbroken ecosystems span boreal forest to Brooks Range peaks to Arctic Ocean. The land and plants are beautifully dramatic in all seasons.
The Wildlife
Over 200 animal species make the refuge home. The coastal plain has vital caribou birthing grounds, polar bear dens, migratory bird nests and more.
The People
Gwich’in and Inupiat people since time immemorial have relied on the area for sustenance and culture. Visitors find value for science, art, spiritual renewal, hunting, and recreation.
Arctic Climate Change Impacts
Global warming threatens refuge polar bears with extinction. The Porcupine caribou herd’s migrations are changing. Protecting the Arctic Refuge is symbolic of our commitment to a bold, clean energy future.
