"We have fallen heirs to the most glorious heritage a people ever received, and each one must do his part if we wish to show that the nation is worthy of its good fortune." Theodore Roosevelt
As the cottonwoods turn gold in the bosque and the calls of the sandhill cranes once again echo across the marsh, we are reminded of the glorious wildlife heritage that President Roosevelt wrote about. Thanks to his foresight and the hard work of countless citizens, we get to revel in that heritage here in New Mexico at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
Many people have stepped up to make Bosque del Apache glorious. For over 25 years, the Friends of Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge have been committed to the refuge through advocacy, research support, funding and education. Thousands of volunteers, such as our cover artist Lynne Braden, have donated their precious time, labor, and dedication to preserve this place for future generations. The passionate service that these people bring to this great place and the hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to enjoy their national wildlife refuge illustrates that the American people are worthy of their good fortune.
The Festival of the Cranes is a great way to celebrate our glorious heritage and to appreciate the natural wonders that have been preserved for future generations. Come join our celebration of the return of the sandhill cranes along their ancient migration paths, see the awe-inspiring vistas, revel in the abundant wildlife, and enjoy the Festival and your national wildlife refuge!
