National Institute for Urban Wildlife

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National Institute for Urban Wildlife

Since its founding in 1973 as the Urban Wildlife Research Center, this organization has promoted the preservation of wildlife in urban settings. In 1983, it became the National Institute for Urban Wildlife and continues to provide support to individuals and organizations involved in maintaining a place for wildlife in the expanding American cities and suburbs. The institute conducts research exploring the relationship between humans and wildlife in urban areas, publicizes methods of urban wildlife management , and raises public awareness of the value of wildlife in city settings. Its activities are divided into four programs: research, urban conservation education, technical services, and urban wildlife sanctuaries.

The research program provides specific information on the interplay between urban dwellers and wildlife. Developers, engineers, government agencies, industry, planners, students, and the general public use the research conducted by the institute. Some of the studies published by the institute have included Planning for Wildlife in Cities and Suburbs ; Urban Wetlands for Stormwater Control and Wildlife Enhancement ; Planning for Urban Fishing and Waterfront Recreation ; Highway-Wildlife Relationships: A State-of-the-Art Report ; and An Annotated Bibliography on Planning and Management for Urban-Suburban Wildlife.

Through its educational arm, the institute publishes numerous documents on the major issues of wildlife to professional environmentalists as well as to the general public. Among these publications is the quarterly Urban Wildlife News, the official publication of the organization. In addition to the newsletter, the institute publishes other resources such as the Urban Wildlife Manager's Notebook, the Wildlife Habitat Conservation Teacher's PAC series, and A Guide to Urban Wildlife Management.

Technical services are provided by the institute to urban planners, developers, land managers, state and federal non-game programs, and homeowners. Among the information and services offered are environmental assessments and impact statements, open space planning and management, recreational planning, experimental design, urban wetlands enhancement, data analysis, literature research, and expert testimony.

The urban wildlife sanctuaries program is designed to create a network of certified sanctuaries on public and private land across the United States. Landowners who dedicate their land to wildlife preservation and are certified by the institute receive support from the institute's wildlife biologists.

The institute's 1,000 members include organizations and individuals who are concerned with the preservation of wildlife in urban settings. Although there is no official volunteer program offered through the institute, guidance is available to members working in grassroots organizations.

[Linda M. Ross ]