September 20, 2006

CONTACT:
Christina Tuff
(202) 225-2211
christina.tuff@mail.house.gov


WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House passed S. 260, the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Act, which was introduced by Senator James Inhofe (R-OK). Last year, Congressman John Sullivan introduced companion legislation in the House, H.R. 2018, which received a favorable public hearing by the House Resources Committee. To help this important legislation become law more quickly, the House considered S. 260, which has already passed the Senate.

“I am pleased that the House passed this important legislation, bringing us one step closer to providing habitat restoration assistance to landowners in Oklahoma, and throughout our nation, who are seeking to protect wildlife on their lands,” Sullivan said. “As an avid sportsman, I believe that it is our responsibility to protect and preserve our national resources. There are few things I enjoy more than fishing with my kids, and we owe future generations the same opportunity.”

The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, authorized by this legislation, helps private landowners restore the natural habitat of fish and wildlife on their own lands, and is entirely voluntary. “Most people think that wildlife conservation and the rights of private landowners are naturally combative forces and are mutually exclusive,” Sullivan said. “This program is a shining example of how we can protect wildlife and the property of individuals at the same time.”

Since its inception in 1987, the Partners Program has helped 32,000 private landowners nationwide create habitats and preserve wildlife. It is truly a partnership between government and private landowners. The Partners Program in Oklahoma has experienced great success. In Oklahoma alone, 3,322 acres of wetland, 58,330 acres of upland and 197 miles of rivers and streams have been restored and enhanced through the program.

“All conservation programs should create positive incentives to protect species and, above all, should hold sacred the rights of private landowners,” Senator Inhofe said. “The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program has already achieved proven results in habitat conservation throughout Oklahoma, while leveraging federal funds through voluntary private landowner participation. I appreciate working with Congressman Sullivan on this important initiative and look forward to the President signing this bill.”

“I am proud to be working with my colleague and friend, Senator Inhofe, to help pass this significant legislation,” Sullivan said. “The future of our natural resources depends on the conservation of habitat, the successful management of wildlife, and the control of invasive species.”

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