We distinguish between journalistic activities for television, newspapers, and magazines, and commercial photography and filmmaking for educational entertainment and advertising. Commercial photographers and filmmakers must negotiate the following requirements with the manager of the refuge where they wish to film. The refuge manager forwards the permit application to the regional office for approval.

• Permits.  The refuge manager must issue an Audio-Visual Production Permit for commercial productions. In addition, the manage must issue a Special Use Permit to authorize journalists and filmmakers access to areas normally closed to the public, and to clarify the parameters of the filmmaking activity.

• Bond Requirements. The refuge manager may require a bond or cash deposit when an audio-visual permit is issued. The purpose of the bond is to assure that areas used in the production are left in their original condition.

• General Liability Insurance. Filmmakers must carry general liability insurance that protects the U.S. government from claims or litigation connected with injury or damage resulting from the actions of the permittee or his agents and employees.

• Endangered Species. The Division of Endangered Species in Washington, D.C., must review and approve all requests to film or record endangered species on national wildlife refuges.