National Wildlife Federation Week
Protect wildlife! This week celebrates the National Wildlife Federation's conservation work. Support wildlife conservation, create backyard habitats, and protect America's natural heritage.
About National Wildlife Federation Week
Protect wildlife! This week celebrates the National Wildlife Federation's conservation work. Support wildlife conservation, create backyard habitats, and protect America's natural heritage.
History & origins
National Wildlife Federation Week is tied to the National Wildlife Federation, which was founded in 1936 by conservationist and political cartoonist Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling after a national wildlife conference in Washington, D.C. The federation grew out of a broad conservation movement that brought together hunters, anglers, gardeners, farmers, and other outdoor advocates around wildlife protection. The week itself is an informal observance used to spotlight the federation’s conservation work and encourage people to support wildlife habitats.
Why it matters
This week matters because it turns wildlife conservation into something people can act on at home and in their communities. Simple steps like planting native species, reducing pesticide use, and creating backyard habitat can help provide food, water, and shelter for birds, pollinators, and other local wildlife. It also raises awareness of habitat loss and the importance of long-term conservation funding and public support.
How to celebrate
Create a backyard wildlife habitat. Support NWF programs. Learn about native wildlife. Plant native plants. Reduce pesticide use. Get your yard certified as a wildlife habitat.
Facts
- NWF was founded in 1936
- They protect wildlife and habitats across America
- Backyard habitats provide food, water, and shelter
- Native plants support local wildlife
- Anyone can create a certified wildlife habitat
Frequently asked questions
When is National Wildlife Federation Week in 2026?
National Wildlife Federation Week in 2026 is observed during the week of Monday, March 16, 2026.
What is National Wildlife Federation Week?
It is a week that highlights the National Wildlife Federation’s work to protect wildlife and habitats. The observance encourages people to support conservation through education, habitat restoration, and native-plant gardening.
Who started National Wildlife Federation Week?
The observance is associated with the National Wildlife Federation, the conservation organization founded in 1936 by Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling. The week itself is not clearly documented as a separately formalized national holiday, so its exact launch history is less clear than the federation’s history.
How do you celebrate National Wildlife Federation Week?
You can celebrate by creating a backyard wildlife habitat, planting native plants, and limiting pesticide use. Supporting conservation programs or getting a yard certified as a wildlife habitat are practical ways to participate.
Is National Wildlife Federation Week an official holiday?
No, it is an informal observance rather than a government holiday. Its purpose is educational and conservation-focused, centered on wildlife protection and habitat stewardship.
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