National Wildlife Refuge System Invasive Species Strike Team Act of 2025
Apr 16, 2026
Apr 16, 2026
Summary
Creates special teams to find and remove harmful, non-native plants and animals from national wildlife areas to protect the natural environment.
What problem does this solve?
Harmful, non-native plants and animals are damaging the natural balance in National Wildlife Refuges. This bill creates special teams to quickly find and remove these invasive species, protecting native wildlife and their homes.
Who does this affect?
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Landowners near wildlife refuges
- Conservation organizations
What does this bill do?
Establishes an invasive species program
Creates the National Wildlife Refuge System Invasive Species Strike Team Program within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to fight harmful, non-native species.
Authorizes funding for the program
Provides $15 million for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030 to carry out the program's activities.
Creates regional strike teams
Requires the creation of at least one invasive species strike team in each region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Requires public reports
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to submit public reports on the program's work and progress two years and five years after the law is passed.
Promotes partnerships
Encourages the strike teams to work with federal, state, tribal, and local governments, as well as non-profit groups and private citizens.
Authorizes assistance to others
Allows the program to provide financial or technical help to manage lands next to wildlife refuges and to assist other government agencies upon request.
What is the real world impact?
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Protects native wildlife and habitats
Establishes a formal, funded program to combat invasive species, which are a major threat to the health of ecosystems in National Wildlife Refuges. This provides a dedicated and organized response to protect these important natural areas for future generations.
When does this start?
The program is set to be funded from fiscal year 2026 through 2030 and includes specific deadlines for reports.
Program funding period
Funding of $15 million per year is authorized for the fiscal years 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, and 2030.
First progress report
A public report on the program's activities and progress must be submitted two years after the bill becomes law.
Second progress report
A second public report on the program's activities and progress must be submitted five years after the bill becomes law.