Amazing Wildlife: You can find just about everything that walks, crawls, swims or flies on a national wildlife refuge somewhere. From migration to procreation to hibernation, step behind those "Blue Goose" refuge boundary signs and discover a fascinating wildlife story for every season.

Flyways – Highways in the Sky: Refuges dot the nation’s major flyways – corridors for bird migration – serving as much needed reststops. For example, 90 percent of the Pacific flyway population of long billed dowitchers will stop at Stillwater NWR in Nevada each spring on their way back north from the tropics. Drop by your local refuge during the spring or fall and ask about the remarkable journeys made by the refuge’s guests.

Local History: The first refuge was established nearly 100 years ago to protect pelicans from market hunters who wanted their feathers for ladies' hats! When was your local refuge established, and why? How has the community and the landscape changed since then? What changes will come in the next 100 years?

Wildlife Management Behind the Scenes: Bring along your camera as refuge staff demonstrate how they manage soil, water, fire, and vegetation to nurture a variety of wildlife species. Take a closer look at how refuge staff improve habitat to attract waterfowl and songbirds. Is there a lesson there you can pass on to local hunting or gardening clubs? 

Resources at Risk: If you prefer stories with an edge, ask the refuge manager about the challenges the refuge is facing. What is the source of that water pollution threatening the refuge's wetland inhabitants? What are the implications of that proposed mine... or dam... or shopping mall for the refuge?

Outstanding Outdoor Recreation and Education: Refuges abound with opportunities for bird watchers, hunters, anglers, wildlife photographers, students, and just about anyone else who wants to experience wildlife up close and personal. Drop by a nearby refuge and learn about local recreational and educational opportunities your readers and viewers may have overlooked. 

Colorful Personalities: Dedication and esprit de corps are the hallmarks of refuge staff and volunteers. One refuge employee was recently recognized for never missing a day of work as the only maintenance worker for 4 separate refuges -- at 90 years old! Almost 20 percent of the work on refuges is performed by volunteers, and their stories can inspire others to begin pitching and take ownership of the natural heritage we all share. 

Passing on Outdoor Traditions: When National Wildlife Refuge Week, National Fishing Week, National Hunting and Fishing Day, and other events roll around each year, refuges step up to the plate with fishing derbies, wildlife art, competitions, and festivals. Which is bigger, the smile on a kid's face or that first fish at the end of his line? It's a great photo either way. Uncover heartwarming stories of  people discovering new horizons in the outdoors and show the world what that first trophy can mean. 

Civic Participation: Nearly 200 grassroots community organizations have sprung up to support their hometown wildlife refuge. Often going by such names as "Friends of Anahuac Refuge," these groups help recruit volunteers, lead birdwalks and other public activities, and participate in most other aspects of refuge management.  These groups can be an invaluable resource for journalists who are looking for informed opinions on the refuge, and most can be located by following this link: http://refugenet.org/new%20friends%20connect/index-rsgdir.htm.