Tue Jan 06 02:00:00 UTC 2026: Former Wildlife Officials Question Speed of Refuge Review

Seven former high-ranking Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) employees expressed concerns Monday regarding the agency’s recently ordered self-assessment of the nation’s wildlife refuges. While supportive of the review’s concept, the retired career leaders voiced alarm over the rapid timeline proposed for its completion.

FWS Director Brian Nesvik ordered a comprehensive review of the nation’s wildlife refuges last month, including a request for “organizational change recommendations,” setting an initial deadline of Monday. The former employees emphasized that the three-week timeframe, particularly over the Christmas and New Year holidays, is insufficient for such a significant analysis. They argued that more time and resources are necessary to develop a thoughtful and useful product.

Key Takeaways:

  • Seven former FWS employees raised concerns about a self-assessment of national wildlife refuges.
  • The primary concern is the short, three-week timeline allotted for the review.
  • Former employees believe the holiday period hinders the assessment’s quality.
  • FWS Director Brian Nesvik initiated the review and set the initial deadline.
  • The review seeks “organizational change recommendations” for the refuge system.

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