Voice Your Opinion on the Future of John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is moving forward in developing its Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) for the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia. The CCP is a 15-year plan designed to provide strategic management direction that best achieves the Refuge’s purposes; attains the vision and goals developed for the Refuge; contributes to the National Wildlife Refuge System mission; addresses key challenges, issues and relevant mandates; and, is consistent with sound principles of fish and wildlife management. 


In brief, it's a big document that outlines proposed goals, priorities and plans for the next decade at the refuge. There are 3 different "alternatives" described:  A- essentially status quo; B- existing on-going programs and practices, plus additional objectives; and C- Additional far-reaching ideas.  The Refuge prefers and recommends alternative B.


Read the 2-page outline or the big document (chapter 3) if you can. But please DO EMAIL YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THE FUTURE OF HEINZ REFUGE to northeastplanning@fws.gov. Put "John Heinz NWR" in the subject line. It's best if comments are detailed and specific. All ideas welcome - policies, visitor services, trails, signage, habitat management, deer control, educational programs - everything! Public comments accepted through April 23. EMAIL NOW - DON'T DELAY!  And please share this message with others who share an interest in Heinz Refuge.  Every comment is important for management to hear, to ensure a strong future for this precious urban oasis, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum.  Documents can be downloaded from weblink:  http://www.fws.gov/northeast/planning/John%20Heinz/ccphome.html


John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia is listed as an Audubon Important Bird Area and its stewardship is covered by the Valley Forge Audubon Society.