If you wish to donate to the Friends or become a new member of the Friends group, or pay your dues, click on the "Donate" button above. You may also select one of the various Friends projects for your donation once you have clicked on the "Donate" button.
Friends of Crab Orchard Refuge
The Friends of Crab Orchard Refuge is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing use of the Refuge for wildlife conservation, recreation, agriculture and industry. Established in 2000, the Friends have worked collaboratively with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the community to fundraise, provide volunteer services, and support Refuge programs. Please consider joining us!
A few current projects that receive Friends financial sponsorship and/or volunteer assistance include:
The Eagle Tours
In January or early February, visitors can take van tours of
several bald eagle nesting and viewing sites. Tours are led by USFWS Rangers
and experienced birders; and explore both the public and restricted use areas
of the Refuge (behind the gates!) Telescopes are provided for closeup views of
our magnificent national bird.
Eagle nest
Earth Day
Pollinator Garden
Interpretive Programs
Throughout the seasons, Friends assist with many Refuge programs
such as the Earth Day event for schoolchildren, the Becoming an Outdoor Family
programs, the Spring Wildflower Walks, the Birding Tours, the Kayaking Tours,
the Children's Butterfly Roundup, Scouting Programs, the Kids Fishing Derby and
the Junior Duck Stamp Contest.
The Pollinator Habitat Project
Initiated in 2015 with a grant from the National Fish and
Wildlife Foundation, this project focuses on increasing plantings of native
wildflowers, grasses, shrubs and trees that benefit native bees and
butterflies. To date 4 wildflower and milkweed gardens, a 120 foot long prairie
plant bed and 2 acres of a prairie restoration have been established and
maintained. The Friends were awarded a
new grant from The Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (ICECF) in May
2018, which includes a 3:1 match of locally raised donations. As funding is
raised, a new goal of the project is to repair and enhance Harmony Trail,
removing invasive species and planting woodland natives.
Enhancement of Refuge Services and Public Use Facilities
Friends help sponsor the fall Refuge Cleanup Day and have assisted with enhancement or repair of the Wolf Creek Recreation Area (Bogard Point), several hunting blinds, and a water control structure for A-41 moist soil unit (a feeding area for migrating waterfowl). The Friends are currently pursuing application for a grant to improve a public fishing area.
Hunting and Fishing Days
Hunting and Fishing Days are a big event for the Southern
Illinois area, Crab Orchard Refuge, and the Friends. Friends sponsor many youth
activities and set up a booth with a temporary store. The 2018 event will be
held September 21-22 at John A Logan College. Hope to see you there.
Trash pickup
Gift Shop sales
School bus
The School Transportation Program
Friends work with local schools to promote educational
experiences about nature and wildlife. Friends will furnish up to $100 per bus
for costs incurred transporting students to the Refuge for educational and
interpretive programs.
The Photo Contest
Each year the Friends sponsor a Wildlife and Wild Places Photo Contest. (2019 Photo Contest Winners.)
T-shirts
The Gift Store
Friends manage and staff the Visitor Center Gift Shop. All
proceeds are used to support Refuge projects and programs. More volunteers are
needed! Please consider becoming a store volunteer. Training is provided, and a
commitment of only 2 to 4 shifts per month is required (a few hours morning or
afternoon). Its a great way to greet visitors and share your love of the
Refuge!
Friends Logo
USFW Logo