We are the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the only agency in the federal government whose primary responsibility is the conservation and management of fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the American people.

We offer a variety of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and our shared natural heritage. And through our work to conserve natural resources, we provide communities with healthier environments, clean water, flood control and a strong economy.

Achieving Our Mission

Learn about our priorities, statutory authority and functions. 

History of Fish and Wildlife

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a bureau within the U.S. Department of the Interior and the nation’s oldest conservation agency. Our origins date back to 1871 when Congress established the U.S. Fish Commission to study why the nation’s food fishes were decreasing and recommend ways to reverse that decline.

Though the name of our agency has changed multiple times over the years, what endures is the collective dedication of Service employees to face the conservation challenges of their dayand now, our daywith ingenuity, integrity and hard work. Fortunately, our history shows that we’ve always been up to the challenge.

Our Locations

Latest Stories

people pose at flagpole, under 2 US flags, USFWS one
History and Culture
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge: A Sanctuary Shaped by History and American Heritage
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge rests just 26 miles west of New York City’s Times Square, yet it feels worlds away. Spread across 12 square miles of protected wetlands and forests, the refuge is a natural sanctuary tucked inside a mostly suburban region of northern New Jersey. But, despite...
A red eft (terrestrial phase of the eastern red-spotted newt)
Wildlife Wonders
Our nation's nature
To celebrate America's 250th birthday, we're highlighting the incredible wildlife that calls this beautiful country home. This week, learn about the easter tiger swallowtail, eastern newt, red-winged blackbird, hummingbird clearwing moth, northern water snake, rose-breasted grosbeak and common...
Two black bears, a mother and a small cub walking along a sandy road on the edge of a forest
Recreation
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Reminds Visitors to be Bear Aware
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reminding visitors to take extra precautions in bear country following recent bear incidents in several national parks. 
a women stands fishing on a boulder in a slow stream
Endangered Species Act
Trout Continue to Flourish in the American Southwest
The Gila and Apache trout success stories are some of the best examples of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s collective conservation mission. Working together through challenges and rewards, a determined group of partners (along with pack mules, horses and helicopters) have made sure that the...
Two men in manual wheelchairs sit side by side fishing from a paved path, looking out over a calm pond bordered by trees and greenery, with a wooden railing in front of them.
Recreation
Nature for Everyone: Creating Accessible Outdoor Spaces in Oregon
Nature is for everyone. At the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, we’re committed to ensuring that people of all abilities can experience the beauty of Oregon’s outdoors. From improving trails to hosting inclusive, adaptive events, we’re working to remove barriers and create opportunities for the...
a small brown monkey with a white face and white tufts near their ears
Wildlife Crime
Dismantling illegal monkey trafficking in Florida
Thanks to an investigation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and partners, a wildlife trafficker has been sentenced to federal prison, fined and banned from wildlife-related activity. He offered an agent multiple exotic species, including macaques, red-handed tamarins, spider monkeys, capuchins...

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See Where Your Tax Dollars Go 

Each year, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service develops an annual budget justification which defines our goals, objectives, and the funding necessary to accomplish them. Once approved, funds are allocated to programs and regions, and monitored to ensure those funds are used as mandated by Congress.

View Our Budget

Do Business With Us

The mission of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is to work with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. In support of the mission, the FWS procures goods and services that include: land rehabilitation; information technology resources; construction projects; professional and nonprofessional services; supplies; and environmental studies. We look forward to working with qualified, capable contractors, including small businesses.

Learn About Contracting

Work With Us

The range of career options available in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is as wide as it is rewarding. A career with us might be just what you’re looking for if you’re passionate about supporting our mission and science, water quality, nature, air quality, fish, birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, native plants, or education. You can make a difference by bringing your unique experience, background, and perspective to our work.  

Browse Current Job Opportunities