Interior Department Announces $157 Million for Wetland Conservation Projects and Wildlife Refuges
The Department of the Interior announced that the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission has approved more than $46.2 million in grants to conserve or restore 91,425 acres of wetland and associated upland habitats across 17 states. These funds, distributed through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), will be matched by over $99.1 million from partner contributions. The projects will benefit waterfowl, shorebirds, and other migratory bird species.
Additionally, more than $11.7 million from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund will be used to protect habitat on seven national wildlife refuges, expanding public access to hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and outdoor recreation.
Wetland Conservation: A Vital Investment
“Investing in wetland conservation is an investment in the health of our environment and our economy,” said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland. She noted that these grants will preserve critical habitats for migratory birds and promote local economies through enhanced recreational opportunities. Haaland highlighted how this aligns with the Biden-Harris administration’s “America the Beautiful” initiative, which seeks to conserve lands and waters, protect biodiversity, and build resilience against climate change.
Supporting Wetland Habitats Amid Environmental Challenges
The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, chaired by the Secretary of the Interior, has played a central role in conserving critical habitats across the nation, establishing key areas for birdwatching and waterfowl hunting. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams emphasized the challenges facing migratory birds, citing threats such as drought, rising temperatures, and sea-level rise. Williams noted that these grants will help increase biodiversity in wetlands and provide critical habitats for billions of migratory birds, while also expanding outdoor recreational opportunities for nearby communities.
North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA)
NAWCA is the only federal grant program dedicated specifically to conserving wetland habitats for migratory birds. Since 1991, NAWCA has awarded more than $2.28 billion in grants for over 3,300 projects, leveraging more than $4.53 billion in partner funds. Collectively, these efforts have conserved more than 32.6 million acres of habitat, benefiting birds, wildlife, and people alike.
This year’s funding also includes $4.7 million in small grants awarded for projects of up to $250,000, encouraging smaller-scale conservation efforts. These smaller grants, approved by the North American Wetlands Conservation Council, will be matched by over $10 million in partner funds.
Migratory Bird Conservation Fund
The Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, which receives revenue from the sale of Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps (commonly known as Duck Stamps), will fund the acquisition of 3,268 acres of waterfowl habitat across seven wildlife refuges. Since 1934, the Duck Stamp Program has generated over $1.2 billion for the conservation of habitats within the National Wildlife Refuge System.
The funds will be used for habitat purchases in the following refuges:
- Bear River Watershed Conservation Area, Idaho: 656 acres
- Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, Missouri: 294 acres
- Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Maryland: 460 acres
- Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, Illinois: 180 acres
- Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, Mississippi: 938 acres
- Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Virginia: 376 acres
- Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge, Texas: 364 acres
While Duck Stamps are primarily required for waterfowl hunters, anyone can purchase them to contribute to habitat conservation. In fact, many birdwatchers and nature photographers buy Duck Stamps to support the protection of diverse wildlife habitats.
By continuing to fund wetland conservation and expand national wildlife refuges, the Department of the Interior and its partners are ensuring a healthier future for migratory birds, wildlife, and the people who enjoy the outdoors. More information about these projects and the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund can be found on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s website.