Friends of McNeil River is a diverse bunch - doctors, dentists, lawyers, writers, photographers, biologists, guides, teachers, pilots, and just plain outdoor enthusiasts. They all have something in common: they are concerned about the welfare of Alaska's world famous McNeil River State Game Sanctuary and its magnificent Brown Bears.

- URGENT! - The McNeil bears that visit Katmai National Preserve are under threat. Click here to read more Board of Game opens nearby lands despite declining McNeil bear population - Learn what you can do to help -

Photo Copyright Mel Leskinen

McNeil is special to them because most have been privileged to walk among the "people neutral" bears that make it so unique. Each person who visits comes away with a new understanding of brown bears. They know that McNeil River sanctuary has done more to educate the world about brown bears than any other single thing - it is a gift and a treasure beyond value.

In our ever shrinking world, even the wildest places need protection from the heavy hand of man. As remote as McNeil River seems, it is not free from the threat of development, habitat destruction, well-meaning but poorly designed "enhancement" projects, and noise pollution. Friends of McNeil River was formed to address some of these problems.

Its primary purpose is the preservation of the sanctuary's bears and their habitat. We would also like to have a voice in its future.