The National Fish Habitat Conservation Through Partnerships Act was introduced a few days ago in both chambers of congress. This legislation will authorize a national program to conserve, restore and enhance fish habitat across the country for the benefit of recreational fishing.
“Addressing the challenges affecting fisheries habitat is critical to the future of fish populations and recreational fishing opportunities throughout the country,” said Mike Leonard, vice president of Government Affairs for the American Sportfishing Association.
The foundation for the National Fish Habitat Conservation Through Partnerships Act is the National Fish Habitat Partnership, a voluntary, non-regulatory and locally-driven program housed within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The National Fish Habitat Partnership program is currently comprised of 20 individual Fish Habitat Partnerships that focus on specific regions or habitat types. These partnerships include representatives of federal, state and local agencies, conservation and sportsmen’s organizations, private landowners and the business sector.
To date, more than 800 successful conservation projects have been carried out through these partnerships, benefitting fish habitat and anglers throughout the country.
