With this influx of people also comes pollution and vandalism. The park system remains a very special part of the heritage of the United States and concerned citizens are seeking ways to help protect and improve it. The National Wildlife Refuge System provides a necessary habitat for more than 600 endangered species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages the 420 refuges from Alaska to Florida. These unique and diverse wildlife refuges range in size from 20 million acres to tiny bird habitats.
Visitors can hike, cycle, observe and photograph wildlife.
Journey with the Photo Essays through these natural sanctuaries. In 1891, President Benjamin Harrison created the U.S. National Forest System to reserve land for public use in the West. Within these forest reserves, harvesting of timber, grazing of domestic animals and mining is permitted. The Forest Service, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is working to re-introduce native animal populations that were forced from their native lands and natural habitats. Look at these Photo Essays to see how our national forests are being preserved and managed.