; Whereas the National Wildlife Refuge System receives nearly 68,000,000 annual visits, which generate more than $3,200,000,000 for local economies and support 41,000 jobs; Whereas 436 units of the National Wildlife Refuge System have hunting programs and 378 units have fishing programs that, respectively, support more than 2,600,000 hunting visits and more than 8,600,000 fishing visits annually; Whereas the National Wildlife Refuge System hosts more than 42,000,000 annual birding and wildlife observation visits; Whereas national wildlife refuges are important to local businesses and gateway communities; Whereas national wildlife refuges provide an important opportunity for children to discover and gain a greater appreciation for the natural world; Whereas more than 15,000 volunteers and almost 180 national wildlife refuge Friends organizations contribute approximately 818,000 volunteer hours annually, as many hours as 400 full-time employees, and provide an important link to local communities; Whereas 101 units of the National Wildlife Refuge System are within 25 miles of cities and suburbs where 80 percent of individuals in the United States live; Whereas, through the Urban Wildlife Conservation Program, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service works to dismantle barriers that have blocked underserved communities from full and equal participation in outdoor recreation and wildlife conservation; Whereas the Urban Wildlife Conservation Program fosters strong new conservation coalitions, educates and employs youth, engages communities, builds trust in government, and connects individuals with nature; Whereas national wildlife refuges provide opportunities for people from all backgrounds to explore, connect with, and preserve the natural heritage of the United States; Whereas, since 1995, natural wildlife refuges across the United States have held festivals, educational programs, guided tours, and other events to celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week during the second full week of October