Coastal North Carolina Refuges Thrive Underneath Wildlife Refuge Awards Winner’s Management — The Nationwide Wildlife Refuge Affiliation
WASHINGTON, D.C. – July 5TH, 2023
Within the succesful fingers of Rebekah Martin, the Coastal North Carolina Nationwide Wildlife Refuge Advanced thrives as a haven for fish, wildlife, and crops. Her dedication and progressive method have earned her the esteemed title of 2023 Paul Kroegel Award – Refuge Supervisor of the Yr.
This prestigious award celebrates refuge managers who’ve made distinctive strides within the safety and administration of nationwide wildlife refuges. Named in honor of Paul Kroegel, the primary supervisor of the inaugural refuge established in 1903 at Pelican Island, Florida, the 2023 Wildlife Refuge Awards ceremony and dinner will happen on September twenty sixth at 5:30 pm in Washington, D.C. on the esteemed Mayflower Lodge. Media protection of this occasion is very inspired.
“Rebekah was instrumental in growing suggestions on a Linked Conservation Constituency,” stated Deborah Roqcue, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Assistant Director, Science Functions. “Her sensible expertise as a refuge worker helped join the previous with the long run and has ushered in a brand new period of connecting with the general public, significantly the following era of conservationists and supporters.”
Rebekah’s notable accomplishments embrace:
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Securing $27.25 million by the Inflation Discount Act to implement nature-based options, enhancing the resilience of nationwide wildlife refuges inside the Coastal North Carolina Nationwide Wildlife Refuge Advanced and neighboring state wildlife administration areas.
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Proposing an formidable venture to additional bolster the work executed inside the Coastal North Carolina Nationwide Wildlife Refuge Advanced, securing funds for a watershed-scale initiative that implements nature-based options, fortifying the resilience of federal and state conservation lands within the Albemarle-Pamlico area. This endeavor not solely advantages the encircling communities but additionally supplies an enduring impression on under-resourced and underserved areas.
Underneath Rebekah’s steerage, the Pocosin Lakes Nationwide Wildlife Refuge partnered with The Nature Conservancy to revive peat within the 1,325-acre Clayton Blocks. These areas, traditionally managed as seepage buffer zones for adjoining personal land, now function thriving habitats for various natural world.
The Coastal North Carolina Nationwide Wildlife Refuge Advanced encompasses a spread of pristine habitats, together with 9 nationwide wildlife refuges; Pea Island, Cedar Island, Currituck, Alligator River, Mattamuskeet, Swanquarter, Roanoke River, Mackay Island, and Pocosin Lakes. These refuges function important havens for migratory birds, sea turtles, black bears, crimson wolves, and plenty of different species. With their various ecosystems of salt marshes, dunes, maritime forests, wetlands, and swamps, these refuges provide unparalleled alternatives for wildlife viewing and conservation. Collectively, they contribute to the preservation of our pure heritage within the coastal area of North Carolina.
Rebekah’s excellent management and dedication have led to tangible conservation achievements, setting a exceptional instance for refuge managers throughout the nation. Be a part of us in celebrating her exceptional accomplishments on the upcoming 2023 Wildlife Refuge Awards.
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The Nationwide Wildlife Refuge Affiliation is a non-profit solely centered on defending, selling, and enhancing the 850-million-acre Nationwide Wildlife Refuge System, the world’s largest community of lands and waters put aside for wildlife conservation.
For all media inquiries and questions, please contact Eden Taylor, Communications Supervisor at etaylor@refugeassociation.org.