Hunting Continues Despite Staff Furloughs
Amid the October 2025 partial government shutdown, which saw thousands of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) employees furloughed, the Trump administration announced that hunting would remain allowed in approximately 600 National Wildlife Refuges nationwide. Internal instructions confirmed that all scheduled hunts are to move forward, while other refuge services, including visitor centers and educational programming, were suspended. The policy has sparked criticism from lawmakers and environmental groups over prioritizing recreational hunting during a federal shutdown.
Small Workforce Oversees Operations
While the majority of FWS personnel were furloughed, a minimal crew stayed on duty to manage hunting activities. Their responsibilities included monitoring safety, enforcing regulations, and opening refuge gates. Other services, such as visitor assistance and educational outreach, were halted due to staffing shortages. Critics argue that continuing only hunting operations raises questions about fair resource allocation and potential risks to wildlife management and habitat protection.
Conflict Between Recreation and Conservation Goals
Conservation advocates warn that permitting hunting without full staffing could heighten the risk of illegal activities and compromise refuge conservation objectives. Desirée Sorenson-Groves, president of the National Wildlife Refuge Association, stressed the importance of policies that protect both wildlife and public safety. Administration officials defended the decision, emphasizing that hunting is a traditional, regulated activity on public lands. The situation underscores the broader debate over how to balance recreational access with the ecological preservation of protected areas.
