As Congress deliberates its upcoming budget, the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge in Ohio emerges as a potential victim of impending cuts, raising significant concerns among conservationists. The refuge, situated near Lake Erie, spans 8,100 acres and includes essential habitats such as wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands that support diverse wildlife, including migratory waterfowl and bald eagles.
Long underfunded, the refuge has faced challenges like staff reductions and restrictions on essential supplies for maintenance, prompting the Friends of Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge to seek emergency funding. With the refuge serving as a critical migratory bottleneck in North America, its preservation is not only vital for wildlife but also crucial for thousands of visitors drawn to its natural beauty each year.
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