Lafayette Reporter

Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana emphasized the importance of protecting America's wetlands through the bipartisan North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), stating, “Louisiana’s wetlands are a big part of our state’s outdoor sportsman culture and geographical beauty. The North American Wetlands Conservation Act is an important step to preserve our wildlife and protect our environment’s natural defense system.”

Joining Sen. Kennedy in this initiative, Sen. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico highlighted the significance of preserving wetlands for future generations, saying, “We owe it to our kids and grandkids to ensure they can inherit the full breadth of American wildlife and the wetlands that sustain them. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to bolster our nation’s most successful wetlands restoration program."

The bipartisan bill, cosponsored by several senators, aims to reauthorize $65 million in funding to protect America's wetlands. This funding will not only benefit wildlife conservation but also have broader positive impacts. Sen. Heinrich explained, “By reauthorizing the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, this legislation will improve access to clean drinking water, invest in our thriving multi-billion-dollar outdoor recreation economy, and conserve New Mexico’s wildlife and the habitats they depend on for future generations.”

The North American Wetlands Conservation Act, first passed in 1989, provides federal cost-share funding for projects that conserve North America’s waterfowl, fish, and wildlife resources. NAWCA funding supports various activities such as hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography across all states. The program has a significant multiplier effect, generating an average of two additional dollars for every federal dollar. To date, federal grants totaling over $2.1 billion have spurred $4.3 billion for NAWCA projects through matching and non-matching funds.

Additionally, NAWCA funding contributes to the economy by supporting an average of 7,500 jobs each year and generating more than $5 billion in annual economic activity. The full text of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act is available for reference.

The bipartisan efforts led by Sen. Kennedy and Sen. Heinrich, along with their colleagues, reflect a commitment to safeguarding the environment, wildlife, and natural habitats for the benefit of current and future generations.