National Wildlife Federation and Natural Resources Council of Maine news release
Augusta, ME — Maine conservationists are thanking Senator Angus King for co-sponsoring the most significant wildlife conservation bill in nearly half a century, the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act. According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife the bipartisan bill would deliver $11.4 million to Maine to help bolster the state’s efforts to protect 378 species of greatest conservation need, as well as their habitats.
“Maine’s outdoor economy is central to our way of life, but unfortunately the state’s wildlife is increasingly facing threats from sprawling development and the impacts of climate change,” said Melanie Sturm, Forests & Wildlife Director at the Natural Resources Council of Maine. “We thank Senator King for protecting the future of Maine by co-sponsoring this fiscally responsible bill to help conserve threatened fish and other animals through collaborative, voluntary measures across every state, territory, and Tribal nation.”
“Saving the thousands of at-risk wildlife species will require bold, bipartisan leadership and unprecedented collaboration,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “We are so grateful to Senator King for leading the way on the historic Recovering America’s Wildlife Act that will have an immediate impact – saving species and creating jobs in Maine and all across the country.”
Nationwide, the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act dedicates $1.4 billion annually to locally led wildlife restoration efforts. At least 15 percent of the funds will be used to help species already designated as endangered or threatened. Federally recognized Tribal nations, including Maine tribes, would have the opportunity to share $97.5 million annually to fund wildlife conservation efforts on Tribal lands.
Representative Chellie Pingree is among the more than 100 bipartisan supporters of the House version of the legislation.
More than 370 local species would benefit from the bill, including cave bats, Bicknell’s Thrush, and Arctic char.
