Louisiana Master Naturalists of Greater New Orleans

Celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week at your Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges! Visit one of the nine Refuges during October 11 - 18, and record any animals or plants you observe using the iNaturalist app. Founded by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903 and administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Wildlife Refuge System is a diverse network of lands and waters dedicated to conserving America’s rich fish and wildlife heritage. Within Louisiana, 24 refuges across the state provide habitat for wildlife and recreational opportunities for people. To locate a refuge near you, go to https://www.fws.gov/refuges/visit/. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this is a self-led BioBlitz. Although most refuge and hatchery lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we encourage you to: Follow current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups. Wear a cloth face mask/covering over the nose and mouth, especially when social distancing is difficult. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick.

Contact Becky Larkins for more information: rebecca_larkins@fws.gov