Besides the park systems, there is the National Wildlife Refuge System which was established in 1966 and presently includes over 450 refuges. These places are intended to protect and increase wildlife and habitats and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The first refuge in the U. S. was on Pelican Island, Florida in 1903. The largest private system of preserves in the world is the Nature Conservancy with over 1,200 sites. It is an international conservation organization that saves rare plants and animals from extinction by protecting the places that they live in.
People benefit from preserves.
They help protect marshes, swamps, and wetlands that help control flooding, filter pollutants, and refill underground water supplies. The beauty of nature is valuable to mankind. It enriches life and makes outdoor recreation more enjoyable. Wildlife provides all kind of sources of valuable elements to use and study. Recreational and educational use of preserves also provides income to local communities.