Emphasis is placed on working with willing sellers. Although land acquired by the Service is removed from tax rolls, the affected county or other taxing authority receives annual revenue sharing payments. The market value is updated every five years. If refuge receipts are insufficient to allow full payment, the disbursement may be reduced proportionally. Congress may appropriate additional funds to ensure full payments.
Refuges can benefit communities in many ways.
Wildlife Refuges in the United States are visited 34 million times a year, by birdwatchers, photographers, educators and researchers, hunters, fishers, and hikers. These visitors are an important source of revenue for the local economy. Refuges also enhance the quality of life for local residents, both preserving the region's aesthetic beauty and affording numerous recreational and educational opportunities. You will not be asked to move until your property has been acquired and relocation assistance is given to find a suitable replacement property. Any relocation benefit paid to you will be in addition to the fair market price paid for the land.