The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comment on a draft Compatibility Determination (CD) for a renewal of photography and wildlife observation as recreational activities at Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. Photography typically involves taking still photographs or filming wildlife or scenery. Wildlife observation is defined as the viewing of fish, wildlife, plants or their habitats by refuge visitors. 

Under the National Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act of 1997, wildlife observation and photography are priority public uses. For more information, reference the draft Compatibility Determination. 

Copies of the draft Compatibility Determination are available on the Refuge website at fws.gov/refuge/sherburne, or copies can be obtained by visiting the Sherburne’s Refuge Headquarters at 17076 293rd Ave NW, Zimmerman, MN 55398. Written comments on the draft Compatibility Determination will be accepted through December 1st, 2019 and should be submitted to: Refuge Manager, Sherburne NWR, 17076 293rd Ave NW, Zimmerman MN, 55398 or by email to: steve_karel@fws.gov. 

The National Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act of 1997 requires that before permitting new or expanded uses on a Refuge, the use must be determined to be compatible with the purposes of the Refuge. Compatibility determinations must be updated every 10-15 years or when the use changes in any way. Compatible means that a use will not materially interfere with, or detract from, the fulfillment of the Refuge System mission or the refuge’s purposes.  

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Website: fws.gov/refuge/sherburne/. 

The mission of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.