(Washington, D.C.) – The National Wildlife Refuge Association and Partners for Conservation applaud the release of S.826, the Wildlife Innovation and Longevity Driver (WILD Act), which would reauthorize the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program. This bipartisan legislation was introduced by Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), and co- sponsored by Senators James Inhofe (R-OK), Tom Carper (D-DE), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), John Boozman (R-AR), and Corey Booker (D-NJ).
The amount authorized to be appropriated on the program would be increased from $75 million to $100 million. The bill would also provide resources to tackle invasive species and reauthorize the Multi-National Species Fund.
"We are thrilled that this bipartisan group of Senators have proposed the reauthorization of the Partners and Fish and Wildlife program. This year, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Partners program and the work it has done with private landowners to restore thousands of acres of land," said Geoffrey L. Haskett, Acting President of the National Wildlife Refuge Association. "We look forward to working with the Senate and the House to pass this bill into law."
"Partners for Conservation has long recognized the value of the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program" said Pat O'Toole, Partners for Conservation board member and Wyoming rancher "Landowners know that partnerships can best provide for lasting species conservation across our Nation."
The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program provides technical and financial assistance to private landowners who would like to improve the habitat on their property for migratory birds and endangered or at-risk species. This voluntary program allows landowners to continue to manage their land as they see fit, while at the same time providing valuable wildlife habitat.
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The National Wildlife Refuge Association is the only independent nonprofit that promotes and protects the world's largest wildlife conservation network: the National Wildlife Refuge System. Learn more at: refugeassociation.org.
