CLARKS RIVER NATIONAL
WILDLIFE REFUGE Ribbon Cutting Ceremony October 21, 2002
The Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge
(located in Benton, KY) is one of over 536 national wildlife refuges.
The primary objective of a national wildlife refuge is to provide habitat
for the conservation and protection of all species of wildlife. These
refuges are home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, reptiles, fish,
and plants, including endangered species. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife
Service manages more than 500 refuges, many within an hour's drive of major
cities. The dedication of this building proved it's importance to the
community with the outstanding number of people present. Amongst the
guest list was Rick Huffines, C. Tom Bennett, Sam D. Hamilton, and
featured speaker U.S. Senator Mitch McConnel. Senator McConnel was presented
with the KY Warbler Award for his dedication to the migratory birds in West
Kentucky.
Senator Mitch McConnell
KY Warbler Award
Rick Huffines
Refuge Manager/ Clarks River NWR
Tom Bennett
Commissioner
KY Dept. of Fish & Wildlife Res.
Sam D. Hamilton
Southeast Regional Director
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service