A Case to Expand the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge

The Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge (ORINWR) has been a cornerstone of conservation and recreation since its establishment in 1990. Managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), this refuge currently spans 24 islands across West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky in the upper 470 miles of the Ohio River, playing a crucial role in protecting vital habitats and providing recreational opportunities. 

Now, communities are calling to expand the refuge to include an additional 52 islands in the lower Ohio River, between Cincinnati and Cairo, that promises to enhance biodiversity, increase recreational opportunities, and strengthen local engagement along the entire 981 miles of the Ohio River.

What Is the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge?

The ORINWR was established in 1990 to protect the unique and ecologically vital islands scattered along the Ohio River. Originally focusing on 13 islands, the refuge aimed to preserve crucial wetlands, forests, and aquatic environments essential for wildlife. Thanks to the vision of then-Senator Byrd and strong community support, the refuge quickly expanded to include 22 islands, and in 2023, 2 more islands were added bringing the total to 24. A 1989 New York Times article highlights the refuge’s beginnings, emphasizing its dual mission: safeguarding endangered species’ habitats while providing recreational spaces for the public.

A brief history…

These islands, shaped by glacial meltwaters at the end of the last ice age, hold a rich history. While Native Americans lived along the Ohio River for thousands of years, significant changes to the river and its islands only began with the arrival of European settlers 200 years ago. The most dramatic transformation came with the construction of modern dams in the last century, which turned a wild, free-flowing river into a year-round corridor for commerce and industry. Over 40% of the historic island acreage disappeared, submerged underwater, dredged away, or repurposed for dam construction.

Today, the refuge islands are gradually returning to their natural forested state after years of farming, oil and gas extraction, and other human activities. The refuge, now consisting of 24 islands and four mainland tracts across 362 miles of the upper Ohio River, is critical in protecting migratory birds and endangered freshwater mussels. 

In 1996, the refuge's boundaries were expanded to include recreational activities like sport fishing, marking a significant evolution in its role. Today, ORINWR stretches nearly 400 river miles from Shippingport, Pennsylvania, to Manchester, Ohio, spanning four states. As the demand for recreational spaces grows and the need for enhanced wildlife protection becomes more urgent, there’s a strong case for adding 52 more islands to the refuge. 

So Why Expand the Refuge?

Islands currently owned by the refuge are in blue, partially owned islands in purple, and islands for a potential expansion in red.

1. Protecting Our Wildlife: The islands of the Ohio River are vital habitats for a diverse array of species, including endangered mussels, fish, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The shallow water channels surrounding these islands, relatively undisturbed by heavy barge traffic, offer a sanctuary for these creatures. As human activity and climate change increasingly threaten these delicate ecosystems, the need for protection has never been more urgent. Expanding the refuge would establish a network of safe havens along the river, enhancing our ability to safeguard biodiversity and protect endangered species in the face of growing environmental pressures.
   
   

2. More Fun on the Water: The Ohio River Way aims to transform the river into a National Water Trail, linking its upper and lower stretches. As this vision comes to life, the need for well-managed public spaces for fishing and water sports will increase. Expanding the refuge to encompass additional islands will provide new destinations for boating, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). This expansion not only facilitates a deeper connection with nature but allows for more responsible and regulated recreation, ensuring that these activities are conducted in ways that respect and protect the river’s natural resources.
   
   

3. Boosting Local Economies and Communities: Clean water and access to green spaces are not just environmental priorities; they are also powerful drivers of economic growth and community well-being. Expanding the refuge to include more protected islands can significantly boost property values which in turn can increase tax revenues for local governments. These funds can then be reinvested into the community, supporting public services, infrastructure improvements, and further conservation efforts. Moreover, these green spaces aid in natural flood management. By absorbing excess water during heavy rains and slowing down runoff, the islands can help mitigate the impact of flooding on nearby communities and save money on expensive costs from water damage repair.

Movement Toward the Future

Expanding the ORINWR involves acquiring additional islands, with about half already owned by government entities and the rest privately held. Currently, a detailed feasibility study is needed to outline how these islands could be acquired, managed, and integrated into the refuge. This plan should align with USFWS policies and conservation priorities to ensure it supports the refuge’s mission.

In May 2024, Senator Joe Manchin secured $5.1 million from the U.S. Department of the Interior to clean up six orphaned oil and gas wells within the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge in West Virginia. This funding, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help remediate environmental hazards posed by these abandoned wells, which threaten groundwater, wildlife, and public health. The project will also create local jobs, highlighting the ongoing commitment to the refuge’s conservation goals while supporting the community. This investment ensures that the refuge remains a safe and vibrant natural space for future generations.

Expanding the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge to include 52 more islands is more than just an expansion; it’s an investment in our environment, our economy, and our communities, ensuring a vibrant future for the Ohio River and the people who cherish it.

# # #

You can find the Ohio River Way’s press kit here.