Honoring Indigenous Heritage at Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge — The National Wildlife Refuge Association

The 2022 O’Brien Prize represents the embodiment of our commitment to fostering inclusive conservation efforts that recognize and celebrate the contributions of indigenous and all diverse communities to our natural world. Donal O’Brien III, after whom the prize is named, was a fervent supporter of the National Wildlife Refuge System. He admired the dedication and effectiveness of Refuge Friends groups, and we continue to honor his legacy by recognizing and supporting the exceptional work of organizations like the Friends of Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge.

As we move forward, we envision a future where wildlife conservation is intrinsically linked with cultural preservation, where the stories of the past echo through the beauty of national wildlife refuges. Together, we stand united with the Friends of Missisquoi and the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi, working hand in hand to create a more vibrant and inclusive future for our National Wildlife Refuge System.