[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 133 (Monday, August 17, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E790]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





   RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MINNESOTA VALLEY NATIONAL 
                            WILDLIFE REFUGE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KELLY MORRISON

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, August 17, 2026

  Ms. MORRISON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, alongside my colleague 
Representative Angie Craig, to recognize the 50th anniversary of the 
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge--an extraordinary 
conservation achievement in the heart of Minnesota. Established in 
1976, the refuge has become a national model for habitat restoration, 
wildlife protection, and community engagement.
  As noted in the Record ten years ago, the refuge ``provides vital 
habitat for migratory waterfowl, fish, and other species,'' and remains 
``a wonderful example of Minnesota's commitment to conservation and the 
environment.'' Those words continue to ring true.
  Today the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge spans nearly 
15,000 acres and stretches more than 70 miles along the Minnesota River 
from Bloomington to Henderson, Minnesota. Its wetlands, floodplain 
forests, prairies, and restored oak savannas support hundreds of 
species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and pollinators. The 
refuge also manages more than 8,000 acres of Waterfowl Production 
Areas, providing a fertile nesting habitat for waterfowl and offering 
Minnesotans abundant hunting and fishing opportunities.
  The refuge welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for 
wildlife observation, photography, hunting, fishing, environmental 
education, and interpretation. Its visitor centers in Bloomington and 
Carver serve as gateways to nature for families, community groups, and 
first-time public-lands users. The refuge also provides outdoor 
learning experiences for thousands of students annually, offering 
hands-on environmental education that connects young people to 
Minnesota's natural heritage.
  Conservation work at the refuge has expanded significantly over the 
past five decades. Staff use prescribed fire, invasive species control, 
biological monitoring, and large-scale habitat restoration to maintain 
and improve ecological health. They collaborate closely with private 
landowners, watershed districts, local governments, and state agencies, 
strengthening habitat across the entire Minnesota River Valley.
  Equally essential are the refuge's volunteers, who contribute tens of 
thousands of hours each year to habitat restoration, visitor services, 
trail work, wildlife surveys, and education programs. Their dedication 
reflects the deep stewardship ethic that defines Minnesota's 
relationship with its natural resources.
  Mr. Speaker, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge stands as 
a testament to what federal, state, and local partners--working 
alongside committed volunteers--can accomplish together. I ask my 
colleagues to join me in honoring 50 years of service by the U.S. Fish 
and Wildlife Service and the many community members who ensure that 
this remarkable refuge will continue to inspire future generations.

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