Service to Send $1 Billion to State Wildlife Agencies

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will distribute $1 billion to state wildlife agencies through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program, National Marine Manufacturers Association announced.

The WSFR establishes a conservation partnership among state wildlife agencies, the outdoor industry and the Fish and Wildlife Service. When hunters, anglers and boaters purchase equipment and fuel, the manufacturers, producers and importers of the products pay into the Wildlife Restoration, Sport Fish Restoration and Boating trust funds. These funds are distributed by FWS to ensure wildlife agencies in all states, commonwealths and territories receive support.

The 2021 amount is $121 million more than in 2020 due to increases in firearm, fishing equipment and boat fuel sales.

“The WSFR partnership … creates a relationship between outdoor recreationists and the natural resources they enjoy,” said Martha Williams, FWS principal deputy director. “State agencies use these funds to manage wildlife and improve their habitats, which also benefits outdoor recreationists.”

“Robust conservation programs are essential to protecting our nation’s cherished pastimes, and the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund is at the heart of these efforts,” said Nicole Vasilaros, senior vice president of government and legal affairs at NMMA. “We applaud the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for ensuring the fund’s continued success.”

The WSFR program has allocated $20 billion to hunting and fishing education, fish and wildlife management, scientific research, habitat restoration and protection, land and water rights acquisition, and hunting and boating access.

Click here for a state-by-state listing of apportionments for fiscal year 2021.