The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (Association) applauds the Senate for securing final passage of the America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024 (S. 3791). Earlier this week, the full Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent after its overwhelmingly bipartisan passage in the House earlier this month. Once enacted, it will ensure continuation of some of the nation’s most successful conservation programs including the National Fish Habitat Partnership (NFHP) and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA).
“These programs are indispensable to the scientific management of our natural resources, empowering state agencies to ensure abundant fish and wildlife, healthy habitats, and recreational opportunities for all Americans” said Judith Camuso, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and President of the Association. “On behalf of the state agencies entrusted to steward these resources and the millions of hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreationists across the country, we thank Chairman Carper (D-DE), Ranking Member Capito (R-WV), and the entire Senate for once again passing this bill unanimously.”
Since its inception in 1981, NAWCA has put more than 3,300 projects on the ground in North America thanks to more than $5 billion from partners, leveraging federal dollars more than 2-1 to conserve and restore almost 32 million acres of wetlands. Likewise, NFHP continues to be one of the most effective and highly leveraged conservation programs in the nation, having already led to over 1,500 successful conservation projects in all 50 states for the benefit of fish, their habitats, and anglers throughout the country.
“State fish and wildlife agencies and their partners will continue to deliver on the trust placed in them,” said Ron Regan, Executive Director of the Association. “We thank Congress for renewing its commitment to conservation and look forward to building an even more successful legacy for these programs.”
Among other vital provisions, the Chesapeake Bay program is reauthorized, and states are ensured the necessary authority to continue regulating types of fishing tackle based on localized effects for the next five years. The bill also includes measures to combat Chronic Wasting Disease and reauthorizes funding for livestock depredation compensation and prevention.
The Association extends its deepest gratitude to the many cosponsors of this legislation, including the original cosponsors: Senators Boozman (R-AR), Cardin (D-MD), Mullin (R-OK), Padilla (D-CA), Van Hollen (D-MD), Whitehouse (D-RI), and Wicker (R-MS).
The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies—the organization that represents North America’s fish and wildlife agencies—promotes sound resource management and conservation, and speaks on important fish and wildlife issues. Found on the web at www.fishwildlife.org, on Facebook /AssociationofFishandWildlifeAgencies and on Twitter @fishwildlife.
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