Under which U.S. federal government department does the United States Fish and Wildlife Service operate?

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service operates within the United States Department of the Interior.

When was the United States Fish and Wildlife Service officially formed?

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service was formed on June 30, 1940, through the combination of the Bureau of Fisheries and the Bureau of Biological Survey. It was reorganized in 1956 into its current structure.

What were the two predecessor agencies that merged to form the Fish and Wildlife Service in 1940?

The two predecessor agencies were the United States Bureau of Fisheries and the Bureau of Biological Survey.

What was the original purpose for the creation of the United States Commission on Fish and Fisheries in 1871?

The United States Commission on Fish and Fisheries, the precursor to the Bureau of Fisheries, was created to study and recommend solutions for the decline in stocks of food fish.

Who was appointed as the first United States Commissioner of Fisheries?

Spencer Fullerton Baird was appointed as the first United States Commissioner of Fisheries.

How did the Bureau of Fisheries evolve and change departments over time?

The Fish Commission was reorganized as the United States Bureau of Fisheries in 1903 and placed under the Department of Commerce and Labor. In 1913, it moved to the Department of Commerce, and in 1939, it transferred to the Department of the Interior.

Beyond fisheries science, what other responsibilities were assigned to the Bureau of Fisheries?

In addition to fisheries science and fish culture, the Bureau of Fisheries was assigned responsibility for enforcing fishery and fur seal-hunting regulations in the District of Alaska starting in 1906, and managing northern fur seals and other fur-bearing animals, along with caring for Aleut communities, in the Pribilof Islands from 1910.

What was the origin of the Bureau of Biological Survey?

The Bureau of Biological Survey originated as the Section of Economic Ornithology, established within the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 1885, which later became the Division of Economic Ornithology and Mammalogy in 1886, and then the Division of Biological Survey in 1896.

What controversial practice was undertaken by the Bureau of Biological Survey in the early 20th century?

In the early 20th century, with scarce funding, the Bureau of Biological Survey included the eradication of wolves, coyotes, and other large predators in its mission, garnering support from ranchers and western legislators. This led to significant funding for destroying animals deemed injurious to agriculture and animal husbandry, and the placement of over 2 million poisoned bait stations across the west.

How did the Bureau of Biological Survey's approach to predator control evolve?

Initially focused on eradication, the Bureau of Biological Survey, particularly after the 1931 Animal Damage Control Act, continued predator control efforts. However, by the late 1960s and early 1970s, growing environmental awareness led to a ban on certain poisons. In 1985, predator control responsibilities were transferred to the Wildlife Services program under the Department of Agriculture.

What significant environmental legislation was passed in 1973, involving the agency?

The Endangered Species Act of 1973 was passed in 1973, and the agency shares responsibility for its administration.

What happened to the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries in 1970?

In 1970, the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries merged with the saline water laboratories of the Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, leading to the creation of the National Marine Fisheries Service.

What is the role of the USFWS in habitat conservation?

The USFWS plays a vital role in wildlife and habitat conservation by protecting native species, managing migratory bird populations, restoring fisheries, conserving vital habitats like wetlands, and overseeing wildlife efforts on military bases.

What is the National Wildlife Refuge System?

The National Wildlife Refuge System is a network managed by the USFWS, comprising 570 National Wildlife Refuges and thousands of other areas across all 50 U.S. states, encompassing diverse habitat types like wetlands, prairies, and forests, covering over 150 million acres.

How many National Wildlife Refuges does the USFWS manage?

The USFWS manages 570 National Wildlife Refuges.

Which six National Monuments does the USFWS participate in governing?

The USFWS participates in governing the Hanford Reach National Monument (Washington), Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (Northwestern Hawaiian Islands), Aleutian Islands World War II National Monument (Alaska), Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument, Rose Atoll Marine National Monument (American Samoa), and Marianas Trench Marine National Monument.

How does the USFWS share responsibility for administering the Endangered Species Act of 1973?

The USFWS shares responsibility with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). NMFS handles marine species, while the USFWS oversees freshwater fish and all other species. They jointly manage species that inhabit both marine and non-marine environments.

What is the purpose of the National Conservation Training Center?

The National Conservation Training Center trains employees and partners of the USFWS to help accomplish the agency's mission. It also facilitates partnerships with private groups for voluntary habitat conservation and restoration.

What are some key partner organizations that the USFWS works with through its Partners for Fish and Wildlife program?

Key partner organizations include Partners in Flight, the National Wildlife Refuge Association, and the Landscape Conservation Cooperatives.

What are the main goals of the Migratory Bird Program?

The Migratory Bird Program aims to protect and conserve bird populations and their habitats, ensure ecological sustainability, enhance opportunities for birdwatching and other outdoor activities, and promote awareness of the importance of migratory birds.

What is the Federal Duck Stamp, and what is its significance?

The Federal Duck Stamp, officially the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, is a collectable adhesive stamp required for waterfowl hunting. Since 1934, its sales have generated over $1.2 billion, conserving more than 6 million acres of wetland habitat, making it a highly successful wetland conservation revenue program.

How much revenue has been generated by Federal Duck Stamp sales, and what is it used for?

Sales of Federal Duck Stamps have generated over $1.2 billion, with over 98% of the funds directly supporting the acquisition of wetlands and conservation easements for the National Wildlife Refuge System.

What does the National Fish Hatchery System encompass?

The National Fish Hatchery System includes 71 fish hatcheries and 65 conservation offices.

What is the purpose of the National Fish Passage Program?

The National Fish Passage Program provides financial and technical resources for projects that promote the free movement of fish and aquatic life, such as dam removal and fishway construction.

What impact has the National Fish Passage Program had since 1999?

Between 1999 and 2023, the program has worked with over 2,000 partners to open 61,000 miles of upstream habitat by removing or bypassing 3,400 aquatic barriers.

Which wildlife laws are enforced by the USFWS Office of Law Enforcement?

The Office of Law Enforcement enforces laws such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, and the Lacey Act of 1900.

What is the role of Refuge Law Enforcement officers?

Refuge Law Enforcement officers safeguard National Wildlife Refuges and play a vital role in preventing habitat destruction.

What is the primary focus of the USFWS International Affairs Program?

The International Affairs Program coordinates national and global initiatives to protect, restore, and enhance wildlife and habitats, with a focus on species of international concern and fulfilling obligations under international treaties like CITES.

What makes the Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory unique?

The Clark R. Bavin National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory is the only forensics laboratory in the world devoted to wildlife law enforcement. It also serves as the official crime laboratory for CITES and Interpol by treaty.

How does the Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory assist in wildlife law enforcement?

The laboratory identifies species or subspecies from animal parts, determines cause of death, helps wildlife officers ascertain legal violations, and links suspects to crime scenes and animal deaths by comparing physical evidence.

What federal laws govern the use of eagle feathers by Native Americans?

The Eagle feather law and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act govern the use of eagle feathers, with the USFWS administering the National Eagle Repository and the permit system for Native American religious use.

How has the USFWS relationship with Native American tribes evolved?

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the agency began incorporating tribal scientists' research and traditional ecological knowledge into conservation decisions, shifting towards a relationship of greater cooperation and respecting tribal sovereignty, moving away from historical tensions.

What is the significance of the National Eagle Repository?

The National Eagle Repository is administered by the USFWS and holds eagle feathers and parts for use by registered Native Americans for religious purposes, as mandated by the Eagle feather law and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

How did Tom Lehrer's song 'Poisoning Pigeons in the Park' relate to the agency?

Tom Lehrer's satirical song gained notoriety in 1959 for criticizing the agency's Animal Damage Control program's practice of poisoning pigeons. This program was later transferred to the Department of Agriculture.

In what popular film was a USFWS tracker featured?

In the 2017 film 'Wind River,' Jeremy Renner plays a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service tracker who assists in solving a murder.

What is the approximate number of employees at the USFWS?

The USFWS employs approximately 8,000 people.

What was the annual budget of the USFWS in 2021?

The annual budget for the USFWS was $1.58 billion in 2021.

Who are the current (as of the source text) agency executives mentioned?

The current agency executives mentioned are Brian Nesvik, Director, and Justin Shirley, Principal Deputy Director.

What is the official website of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?

The official website is fws.gov.

What is the purpose of the National Wetlands Inventory?

The National Wetlands Inventory is a resource utilized by the Migratory Bird Program to map and monitor critical wetland habitats.

What is the significance of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act?

The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act is one of the oldest federal environmental review statutes, requiring evaluations of the impacts on fish and wildlife from proposed water resources development projects.

What is the distinction between the USFWS and the National Marine Fisheries Service regarding endangered species?

The USFWS oversees freshwater fish and all other non-marine species for endangered status, while the National Marine Fisheries Service handles marine species. They collaborate on species that inhabit both environments.

What is the function of the 'listing priority number' in the endangered species process?

A listing priority number is assigned to candidate species to indicate the relative urgency for listing them as threatened or endangered when immediate listing is not feasible.

What is the 'Endangered Species Bulletin'?

The Endangered Species Bulletin is a quarterly publication by the USFWS related to the management of endangered species.

How does the USFWS work with private landowners and groups for habitat conservation?

Through programs like 'Partners for Fish and Wildlife,' the agency collaborates closely with private groups and landowners to promote voluntary habitat conservation and restoration efforts, as many habitats are on non-federal land.

What is the historical context of the USFWS's involvement with fur seals?

The Bureau of Fisheries, a predecessor agency, assumed responsibility in 1910 for the management and harvest of northern fur seals and other fur-bearing animals in the Pribilof Islands, as well as the welfare of the Aleut communities there.

What role does the USFWS play in managing National Monuments?

The USFWS participates in the governance of six National Monuments, which include diverse marine and terrestrial environments, contributing to their conservation and management.

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Understanding the Agency

Federal Mandate

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS or FWS) is a U.S. federal government agency operating under the Department of the Interior. Its core responsibility is the management of fish, wildlife, and their essential habitats across the United States.

Its overarching mission is articulated as: "working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people."

Operational Scope

The agency manages a substantial workforce, estimated at approximately 8,000 employees. In fiscal year 2021, its annual budget was reported at $1.58 billion, underscoring the scale of its operations and conservation initiatives.

Key leadership includes the Director, Brian Nesvik, and Principal Deputy Director, Justin Shirley.

Headquarters and Reach

The agency's headquarters are located in Bailey's Crossroads, Virginia. Its operational reach extends across all 50 U.S. states, managing a vast network of protected areas and natural resources.

Coordinates: 38°50′46″N 77°7′12″W

Evolution of Conservation

Early Fisheries Focus

The agency's origins trace back to the establishment of the United States Commission on Fish and Fisheries in 1871, led by Spencer Fullerton Baird. Initially tasked with studying declining fish stocks, it evolved into the Bureau of Fisheries in 1903, eventually moving under the Department of the Interior in 1939.

This bureau managed fisheries science and fish culture, expanding to include enforcement of regulations for fur seals and other wildlife in Alaska.

Biological Survey Roots

Concurrently, the Section of Economic Ornithology was established within the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 1885, later becoming the Bureau of Biological Survey. Under leaders like Clinton Hart Merriam and Jay Norwood Darling, its mission included scientific understanding of wildlife and, controversially, predator control programs.

The Bureau of Biological Survey also played a role in early environmental legislation, such as the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1934.

Consolidation and Modernization

In 1940, the Bureau of Fisheries and the Bureau of Biological Survey merged to form the Fish and Wildlife Service within the Department of the Interior. This entity was later reorganized in 1956 into the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, comprising the Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife and the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries.

In 1970, parts of the agency were integrated into the newly formed National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), leading to the creation of the National Marine Fisheries Service.

Protecting Natural Spaces

National Wildlife Refuge System

The USFWS manages the National Wildlife Refuge System, a network of over 570 refuges spanning diverse habitats across all 50 states. This system encompasses wetlands, prairies, coastal areas, and forests, totaling more than 150 million acres.

The system is guided by the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, ensuring comprehensive habitat management.

National Monuments Stewardship

The agency holds stewardship responsibilities for six National Monuments, contributing to the preservation of unique ecological and historical sites:

Hanford Reach National Monument (Washington)
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (Hawaii)
Aleutian Islands World War II National Monument (Alaska)
Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument
Rose Atoll Marine National Monument (American Samoa)
Marianas Trench Marine National Monument

Wetlands and Coastal Areas

The agency plays a critical role in conserving vital habitats, particularly wetlands, through programs like the National Wetlands Inventory. It also oversees wildlife efforts on military bases and protects sensitive marine coastal ecosystems under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act.

The Federal Duck Stamp program, a significant revenue source, has funded the acquisition of millions of acres of wetlands for conservation.

Safeguarding Biodiversity

Endangered Species Act

The USFWS shares administration of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 with the National Marine Fisheries Service. The agency is responsible for listing and protecting freshwater fish and all other non-marine species.

A listing priority number system is employed to prioritize candidate species for protection.

Migratory Bird Conservation

The Migratory Bird Program focuses on protecting bird populations and their habitats, ensuring ecological sustainability. It supports birdwatching, outdoor recreation, and public awareness of migratory bird importance.

Key activities include habitat mapping, conservation partnerships, policy development, and enforcement of laws like the Migratory Bird Conservation Act.

Fisheries Restoration

The agency operates the National Fish Hatchery System, comprising 71 hatcheries and 65 conservation offices. These facilities contribute to restoring native fish populations, freshwater mussels, and amphibians, including species listed under the Endangered Species Act.

The National Fish Passage Program facilitates fish movement by removing aquatic barriers and constructing fishways.

Enforcing Wildlife Laws

Office of Law Enforcement

The Office of Law Enforcement is responsible for enforcing federal wildlife laws, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, and the Lacey Act of 1900. Refuge Law Enforcement officers protect National Wildlife Refuges.

The office also provides training and collaborates with tribal partners on wildlife conservation.

Forensic Science

The agency operates the Clark R. Bavin National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, the world's only forensics laboratory dedicated to wildlife law enforcement. It serves as the official crime laboratory for CITES and Interpol.

The lab identifies species and analyzes evidence to support investigations into wildlife-related crimes.

International Cooperation

The International Affairs Program coordinates global initiatives to protect wildlife and habitats, fulfilling obligations under international treaties like CITES. It collaborates with various stakeholders worldwide to conserve species.

This program focuses on species of international concern and promotes conservation efforts beyond U.S. borders.

Tribal Partnerships

Indigenous Rights and Practices

The USFWS administers the National Eagle Repository and a permit system for the religious use of eagle feathers by Native Americans, as mandated by the Eagle Feather Law and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

These provisions primarily apply to federally recognized tribal members.

Integrating Traditional Knowledge

In recent decades, the agency has increasingly incorporated research from tribal scientists and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) into its conservation decisions. This reflects a growing acceptance of TEK within the scientific community.

This shift signifies a move towards more cooperative relationships between government agencies and tribal nations.

Modern Collaboration

The agency now works closely with tribal governments to ensure informed conservation decisions and uphold tribal sovereignty. This collaborative approach aims to balance conservation goals with the rights and knowledge of Indigenous peoples.

This represents a departure from historical tensions, fostering a relationship of mutual respect and cooperation.

Cultural Impact

Satirical Commentary

The agency's predator control programs faced criticism, notably in Tom Lehrer's 1959 satirical song "Poisoning Pigeons in the Park," which highlighted the perceived cruelty of its methods. These programs were later transferred to the Department of Agriculture.

Cinematic Portrayals

The USFWS has been depicted in popular culture, such as in the 2017 film Wind River, where the protagonist, played by Jeremy Renner, is a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service tracker.

Further Information

Official Channels

Access official reports, historical documents, and program details through the agency's website and related government archives.

Official USFWS Website
U.S. Fish Commission Records
Migratory Bird Program
Federal Duck Stamp Program

Government Affiliations

The USFWS operates under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of the Interior, collaborating with numerous other federal agencies on environmental science and conservation efforts.

U.S. Department of the Interior
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. Forest Service

Authority Control

Identifiers for cataloging and referencing the agency across various databases:

ISNI: 0000000122877477
VIAF: 133611990
Library of Congress: n79006435
BnF: cb12046241v

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not official government information or advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service documentation or seeking advice from qualified wildlife management or environmental professionals. Always refer to official sources for the most current and accurate information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Nature's Stewards

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Understanding the Agency ℹ️

🏛️ Federal Mandate

📊 Operational Scope

📍 Headquarters and Reach

Evolution of Conservation ⏳

🎣 Early Fisheries Focus

🦅 Biological Survey Roots

🤝 Consolidation and Modernization

Protecting Natural Spaces 🌳

🏞️ National Wildlife Refuge System

🗺️ National Monuments Stewardship

💧 Wetlands and Coastal Areas

Safeguarding Biodiversity 🐾

📜 Endangered Species Act

🐦 Migratory Bird Conservation

🐟 Fisheries Restoration

Enforcing Wildlife Laws ⚖️

🚓 Office of Law Enforcement

🔬 Forensic Science

🌍 International Cooperation

Tribal Partnerships 🤝

🦅 Indigenous Rights and Practices

🌱 Integrating Traditional Knowledge

⚖️ Modern Collaboration

Cultural Impact 🎭

🎶 Satirical Commentary

🎬 Cinematic Portrayals

Further Information 🔗

🌐 Official Channels

🏛️ Government Affiliations

🗂️ Authority Control

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📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Understanding the Agency

Federal Mandate

Operational Scope

Headquarters and Reach

Evolution of Conservation

Early Fisheries Focus

Biological Survey Roots

Consolidation and Modernization

Protecting Natural Spaces

National Wildlife Refuge System

National Monuments Stewardship

Wetlands and Coastal Areas

Safeguarding Biodiversity

Endangered Species Act

Migratory Bird Conservation

Fisheries Restoration

Enforcing Wildlife Laws

Office of Law Enforcement

Forensic Science

International Cooperation

Tribal Partnerships

Indigenous Rights and Practices

Integrating Traditional Knowledge

Modern Collaboration

Cultural Impact

Satirical Commentary

Cinematic Portrayals

Further Information

Official Channels

Government Affiliations

Authority Control

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice