From the rugged reaches of Alaska to the vibrant coral reefs of the Palmyra Atoll, the National Wildlife Refuge System is dedicated to the preservation of America’s wildlife species and the places they call home. With more than 560 refuges and five marine national monuments, this is a system unrivaled in its diversity and value to the planet. The National Wildlife Refuge System covers 150 million acres across the United States, providing a safe haven for thousands of species, many of which are endangered. As a result, the refuge system is an essential force in protecting the splendor of America’s natural beauty from development and human habitation and ensuring that it persists for future generations.

Refuge features the photography of Ian Shive, recipient of the Ansel Adams Award for Conservation Photography, who partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to capture the beauty of these protected areas. Including essays from leading conservationists and environmental leaders, Refuge offers a breathtaking look at these remote and, in many cases, inaccessible areas.

Featuring hundreds of stunning images, Refuge represents the greatest of America’s landscapes and wildlife, from the windswept outposts of the Aleutian Islands to the majestic prairies of Colorado, where buffalo roam wild. Refuge also provides useful resources, including a nationwide map of every location, including those open to visitors. As our world changes, these wild icons of America must persevere; this book gives us a clear view of what we stand to lose and why there is hope for the future.