Friends of Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge
The Friends of Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge (FMNWR) is a dedicated nonprofit volunteer organization committed to the long-term protection and enhancement of native wildlife and habitats within the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Established in 1995, the refuge spans over 5,800 acres, making it the second-largest accessible open space on Cape Cod. FMNWR collaborates with a unique partnership of nine federal, state, tribal, and private conservation groups to manage and protect this diverse ecosystem, which includes salt marshes, cranberry bogs, Atlantic white cedar swamps, and freshwater marshes. The organization's mission encompasses supporting native wildlife and habitats, promoting environmental education, and facilitating recreational opportunities within the refuge. Through initiatives like pollinator gardens, osprey nest monitoring, habitat restoration, and educational programs, FMNWR plays a vital role in fostering community engagement and stewardship of the natural environment. Their efforts ensure that the refuge remains a sanctuary for a wide array of species, including migratory birds, red foxes, white-tailed deer, and the endangered New England Cottontail rabbit.