Secretary Zinke Announces Grants to Boost to Wetland, Waterfowl Conservation, Access
WASHINGTON – -(Ammoland.com)- The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, chaired by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke, today approved $24.6 million in grants for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners to conserve or restore more than 176,000 acres of wetland and associated upland habitats for waterfowl, shorebirds and other birds in 18 states throughout the United States.
The grants, made through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), come as the nation prepares to celebrate American Wetlands Month, an annual event that highlights the value of wetlands and encourages all Americans to help conserve these valuable habitats throughout the year. The grants will be matched by over $66 million in partner funds. NAWCA grants ensure waterfowl and other birds are protected throughout their lifecycles.
“Hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation are true American pastimes,” said Secretary Zinke. “I grew up hunting and fishing and know first-hand how important the outdoors is for our own health, the health of our communities and the health of our economy. These projects expand access and protect the birds, lands and waters that we all love, while also growing local economies.”
Wetlands provide many ecological, economic and social benefits such as habitat for fish, wildlife and a variety of plants. NAWCA grants conserve bird populations and wetland habitat, while supporting local economies and American traditions such as hunting, fishing, birdwatching, family farming and cattle ranching.
This year’s projects include:
- Missouri Coteau Habitat Conservation XVI: $1 million to conserve 3,503 acres of wetlands and grasslands for waterfowl, songbirds and other species in North Dakota.
- Lake Erie Coastal Wetlands II: $1 million to restore, acquire, and conserve 2,765 acres of forested, shrub, and other wetlands in Ohio, which serve as