National Wildlife Refuge System: 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations

Humane World for Animals and Humane World Action Fund opposes the proposed expansion of hunting opportunities on the National Wildlife Refuge System. They argue that trophy hunting of native carnivores causes ecological damage, endangers offspring, and that the use of traps, snares, and lead ammunition poses severe risks to animal welfare, human health, and wildlife populations.

Earthjustice, representing several conservation organizations including the Sierra Club and Maine Audubon, opposes the proposed rule to rescind lead-free ammunition and tackle requirements. They argue that the proposal contradicts the Service's own scientific findings regarding the harmful impacts of lead on wildlife and human health, and violates the core conservation mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

The Center for Biological Diversity opposes the proposed rule because it reverses previous decisions to phase out lead ammunition and fishing tackle on several national wildlife refuges. The organization argues that lead remains highly toxic to wildlife and that the Service has failed to provide a reasoned scientific explanation for allowing its continued use.

The Rewilding Institute opposes the proposed expansion of hunting and fishing on National Wildlife Refuges, arguing that it conflicts with the primary mission of wildlife conservation and the Public Trust Doctrine. They contend that the proposal lacks sufficient scientific evidence, fails to conduct adequate NEPA analyses, and prioritizes a minority interest over the broader public's preference for wildlife viewing and ecosystem preservation.

The commenter strongly opposes the expansion of hunting, fishing, and trapping on National Wildlife Refuges, arguing that these lands should prioritize wildlife conservation and ecological integrity over recreational and commercial killing interests. They advocate for a "wildlife-first" approach, demanding rigorous, site-specific scientific reviews and the preservation of federal standards that are more protective than state regulations.

The Public Interest Coalition opposes the proposed expansion of hunting and trapping in the National Wildlife Refuge System, arguing that it contradicts the primary purpose of wildlife protection. They specifically criticize the rescinding of lead ammo and tackle bans, citing concerns over wildlife poisoning and human health risks.

The Partnership for Policy Integrity (PFPI) opposes the proposed expansion of hunting and fishing across the National Wildlife Refuge System, arguing that it undermines the primary conservation mission of the refuges and negatively impacts the majority of non-hunting visitors. They also express opposition to rescinding non-lead ammunition regulations, citing significant health and environmental risks from lead toxicity.

Friends of Animals, a non-profit international advocacy organization, opposes the proposed rule because it expands hunting and fishing on National Wildlife Refuges and rescinds lead-free ammunition and fishing tackle requirements. They argue the proposal contradicts the conservation mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System, fails to adequately assess environmental impacts under NEPA, and poses significant risks to endangered and threatened species.

In Defense of Animals, an international animal protection nonprofit, opposes the proposal to expand hunting, fishing, and trapping on National Wildlife Refuges. They argue that these lands should serve as sanctuaries for wildlife protection rather than areas for recreational exploitation or lethal use.

Defenders of Wildlife opposes the proposed expansion of hunting and fishing access, arguing that the National Wildlife Refuge System lacks the staffing and resources to manage these activities safely and effectively. They also oppose the rescission of lead ammunition and tackle regulations on nine specific refuges, citing concerns over wildlife health and the lack of new scientific evidence to support the rescission.