The IRF was founded on 31st July 1992 when the CMA, the Scottish Countryside Rangers Association (SCRA) and the US Association of National Park Rangers (ANPR) signed a joint agreement to raise awareness of, and support, the critical work that rangers do around the world.
The IRF now has over 160 member across 7 regions – Africa, Asia, Central America, Europe, North America, Oceania and South America.
World Ranger Congress
Every three years (excepting the COVID pandemic) the IRF brings together rangers from all over the world to learn new skills, share knowledge and create new friendships and partnerships. The Congress is also an important forum for debate on issues that affect rangers on a global level.
Former locations have been:
- 2024 – Hyeres, France
- 2019 – Nepal
- 2016 – Colorado
- 2012 – Arusha, Tanzania
- 2009 – Santa Cruz, Bolivia
- 2006 – Stirling, Scotland
- 2003 – Wilsons Promontory National Park, Australia
- 2000 – Kruger National Park, South Africa
- 1997 – San Jose, Costa Rica
- 1995 – Zakopane, Poland
World Ranger Day, 31 July
On the anniversary of the foundation of the IRF, World Ranger Day is promoted. Achievements across the globe are celebrated, while we also remember those who have lost their lives, or have been injured, in the line of duty.
The Thin Green Line Foundation (TGLF)
TGLF is the charitable arm of IRF, supporting rangers and their families around the world.
