About Us

The mission of the Friends of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge is to promote conservation, awareness, and appreciation of this remarkable refuge. Let’s dive into what makes us passionate about these river islands and how you can get involved.

Our Story

The Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1990 with a clear purpose: to protect, conserve, and restore the habitat for wildlife native to the river’s floodplain. This refuge spans twenty-four islands and four mainland tracts, scattered along an impressive 362 miles of the upper Ohio River. Most of the 3,440 acres of land and underwater habitat are nestled in West Virginia, but Pennsylvania and Kentucky each claim two refuge islands.

Each island is more than just a scenic spot; they all play a vital role in conserving the “wild” Ohio within one of our nation’s busiest inland waterways. Over the past few hundred years, they’ve transitioned from wild islands to agricultural land — many were then exploited as gravel and/or oil extraction sites.  Now, they are gradually returning again as forested havens of the river. Over 200 species of migratory birds and 120 species of Americas freshwater mussels find sanctuary here, emphasizing the refuge’s importance in preserving the Ohio River and its floodplain.

Our Role

The Friends of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge is an independent, non-profit organization. Our goal? To encourage participation and support for the refuge! How do we achieve this? Through a variety of avenues:

  • Market Refuge Volunteer Needs: Dedicated individuals like you become Refuge volunteers and contribute their time, enthusiasm, talent, and skills. Refuge Volunteers make a significant impact, allowing the refuge to accomplish far more than would otherwise be possible. Some of the roles the Refuge volunteers provide include:
    • Supporting the Refuge Flora & Fauna:
      • Restore habitat.
      • Control invasive plants.
      • Survey mussels, plants and other wildlife.
    • Supporting Visitor Needs:
      • Help staff the Visitor Center
      • Lead environmental education programs for youth.
      • Give refuge presentations.
      • Lead refuge tours.
    • Help Maintain the Infrastructure:
      • Build and maintaining trails and signs.
      • Tend to the building and grounds.
  • Fundraising: We organize the Visitor Center store, write grants, solicit donations and host events or other initiatives to raise funds that directly benefit the Refuge. These resources support critical conservation efforts, educational programs, and habitat restoration.  You help right now by donating online.
  • Community Engagement: We believe in the power of involving our community. Whether you’re a student, a retiree, or anyone in between, your passion for nature matters. Join us, and let’s make a difference together!

Get Involved

Whether you want to further conservation, learn more about nature, or share your love for the outdoors, you can play an essential role in improving conservation in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Join us in doing what you love!