Incorporated in New Mexico in 1993, Friends of Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is a registered 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization.

Our important work is funded by grants, program profits, and donations from members, sponsors, and donors like you. Our Friends group is a shining example of what a committed group of caring people can accomplish on many levels. In recognition, Friends of Bosque del Apache was honored with the 2015 Molly Krival Friends Group of the Year Award, presented by the National Wildlife Refuge Association (NWRA).

The NWRA annually recognizes four outstanding service awards in the National Wildlife Refuge System: Manager, Employee, Volunteer, and Friends Group. The award we received is named for Molly Krival – a pioneer of the Friends movement.

We were recognized for excellence in support of Bosque del Apache in many areas, including education and coordination of the annual Festival of the Cranes. Festival of the Cranes draws more than 6,000 people from around the world and has an economic impact to Socorro County of $2.5 million each year, making it the greatest income-generating event in Socorro County.

View our 3 Decades of Support Brochure to learn more about how Friends has supported dozens of important conservation projects at Bosque del Apache since it’s inception in 1993.