United States Fish and Wildlife Service

United States Fish and Wildlife Service

200px Seal of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service
Logo of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service
Agency overview
Formed	June 30, 1940
Preceding agencies	Bureau of Biological Survey Bureau of Fisheries
Jurisdiction	Federal government
Headquarters	Falls Church, Virginia
Employees	9,000 (approx.)
Annual budget	$2.8 billion (FY 2020)
Agency executive	Martha Williams, Director
Parent department	United States Department of the Interior
Website	www.fws.gov

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is an agency of the United States Department of the Interior dedicated to the management of fish, wildlife, and natural habitats. The mission of the USFWS is "working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people."

History

The USFWS was formed on June 30, 1940, through the merger of the Bureau of Biological Survey and the Bureau of Fisheries. The agency's roots trace back to the late 19th century, with the establishment of the Division of Economic Ornithology and Mammalogy in 1885, which later became the Bureau of Biological Survey.

Responsibilities

The USFWS is responsible for the enforcement of federal wildlife laws, protection of endangered species, management of migratory birds, restoration of nationally significant fisheries, conservation of wildlife habitats such as national wildlife refuges, and the distribution of federal funds to state fish and wildlife agencies.

Endangered Species Act

One of the key responsibilities of the USFWS is the implementation of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The agency works to identify and protect endangered and threatened species and their habitats, and to develop recovery plans to ensure their survival.

National Wildlife Refuge System

The USFWS manages the National Wildlife Refuge System, which consists of over 560 national wildlife refuges and 38 wetland management districts. These refuges provide habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species and offer opportunities for public recreation and education.

Migratory Bird Treaty Act

The USFWS enforces the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which implements various treaties and conventions between the U.S. and other countries for the protection of migratory birds.

Organization

The USFWS is headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, and operates through eight regional offices across the United States. The agency employs approximately 9,000 people, including biologists, ecologists, wildlife managers, and administrative staff.

See also

• National Park Service
• Bureau of Land Management
• United States Forest Service
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Conservation in the United States

External links

• Official website