History of the Friends of Woodlands and Waters

Established in 2022, through a merger of Friends of Assabet River NWR and Friends of Oxbow NWR, and expansion to include Great Meadows NWR, Friends of Woodlands and Waters is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and protecting the three Refuges.

The Refuges are three of the eight Refuges that make up the  Eastern Massachusetts NWR Complex. The Friends group merger ties together support and advocacy for important forest, field and wetland habitats that meet the needs of migratory and year-round birds, mammals, plants, reptiles and amphibians. Through stewardship activities, education and outreach programs, Friends work to ensure these valuable resources are available for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations.

The Friends’ goal is to work with the US Fish and Wildlife staff to engage community and other stake-holders to promote maximum use and enjoyment of the refuge for the surrounding communities while balancing those benefits with the primary goal of protecting its natural resources.

We invite you to visit the Refuges, get involved, support and take advantage of the many diverse programs which Friends of Woodlands and Waters sponsors.