Friends of Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Go to the official Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge website. NSNWR was established in 1990 with the purpose to protect, restore and reconstruct and manage native ecosystems of tallgrass prairie, oak savanna and sedge meadow.

The power of a Friends group is its members. Become a member today to support projects that benefit both wildlife and people at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge.

The support of all our members, both new and returning, is more critical than ever as we navigate the challenges of keeping the Refuge accessible, especially with the ongoing closure of the Visitor Center and challenges brought on by reduced federal support.
Read more….

News and Events

Do you have a passion for conservation, ecological restoration, or land stewardship? The Friends of Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge are sponsoring several biology internships for the 2025 field season.
See more information and application instructions.

Field Notes
Check out the notes from the interns on the important work they are doing at the Refuge. Find explanations of their work and why it is vital to the sustainability of the Refuge.

Friends of Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge (NSNWR) Scholarship
Do You Know a Graduating High School Senior That Loves Nature and Will Be Going to College to Study Environmental Science or Conservation? That student may be eligible for the Friends of Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge (NSNWR) Scholarship.
See more information and application
Application deadline is April 18, 2025

The Friends of Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge Nature Store is closed in the Visitor Center which is also closed due to the extensive storm damage in July. While the The Friends is exploring options, currently the Nature Store does not have a home. Watch this site and the Friends Facebook page for updates on the Nature Store.