There's lots to love about this crucial conservation program
Pheasants Forever (PF) and Quail Forever (QF) have a longstanding partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to deliver on the goals of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) across the pheasant and quail ranges. Today marks the 36th anniversary of the program, and a chance to recognize the significant impacts NAWCA has made throughout history.
“The significance of NAWCA to Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever cannot be understated,” said Ron Leathers, PF & QF’s chief conservation officer. “Funding from this program supports conservation projects on private and public lands, creates clean water, and generates quality wetland and upland habitat. NAWCA is one of the key drivers to accomplishing The Habitat Organization’s mission, and we’re thrilled to be a delivery partner for this critical program.”
First enacted in 1989, NAWCA provides federal funding to protect, restore, and manage wetland and associated upland habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
Since it began, NAWCA has provided more than $2.1 billion in federal grants, leveraging over $4.3 billion in matching funds. This has resulted in the conservation of nearly 32 million acres of habitat throughout North America.
The benefits of these funds and conservation efforts are seen in the abundance of hunting and freshwater fishing opportunities across the nation. To participate in outdoor pursuits such as these defines everything that makes America great; a chance for anyone, no matter who they are, to experience our natural resources through hunting, fishing, hiking, bird watching, and more.
If you’re an upland hunter, it’s easy to see the value of NAWCA in the marshes mixed in with prairie. Throughout the Midwest this winter, plenty of roosters will be flushed out of thickly packed and snowy cattail sloughs. And in the spring throughout the Southeast, wetlands will help generate bountiful insect populations – the necessary fuel for newly hatched quail chicks.
At least in part, credit for access to the outdoors and resources for wildlife to thrive is due to funding from NAWCA. All conservationists have treasured the past 36 years of this program, and PF & QF can’t wait to see what the next 36 will bring.