Skip to content

American Fisheries Society Family of Websites:

Fisheries.org

American Fisheries Society
Family of Websites

Journals

Read our five journals and Fisheries magazine

Gray Literature Database

Find thousands of unpublished agency reports and other information

Annual Meeting

Join us in San Antonio in 2025

Divisions, Chapters, Sections

Find an AFS Unit near you or in your area of specialty

Climate Change and Fisheries

Learn how to communicate the effects of climate change on fisheries

Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

Summer internships for high school students

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Fisheries

Explore our initiatives to increase diversity in the Society and in the fisheries profession

Center for Fisheries Technology and Collaboration

Find fisheries science products and services

Center for Technology and Collaboration

Quick answers to common questions

Other Resources
  • Standard Methods for Sampling North American Freshwater Fish Website

  • Rotenone Stewardship Program Information Site

  • Fishionary: A blog about fish words! 
Latest News
AFS Calls for Habitat Modification to Remain in Definition of Harm in Endangered Species Act Natural Resource Professional Societies Issue Joint Statement on the Impacts of Federal Workforce Reduction Future of Public Trust Resources – Statement of the American Fisheries Society AFS x CWP – ‘Tomorrow’s Catch: Securing our Future Fisheries’   Latest Newsletter
Donate
Login
Logout
$0.00 0 Cart
  • Who We Are

    Who We Are

    Governance

    Learn how AFS is structured

    Divisions, Sections, Chapters

    Find a community in your local
    area or in your expertise

    Committees

    Get engaged and volunteer

    Awards & Recognition

    Nominate your heroes

    Diversity

    Learn more about our DEIJA efforts

    AFS Celebrates 150+ Years

    Explore our history

    AFS Fisheries Partnerships

    Meet our global partners

    Meet the Staff

    Dedicated to serving our members

    Contact Us

    Quick answers to common questions

    Support AFS

    Discover how you can support critical AFS programs

    What Are Fisheries?

    Explore fisheries professions

  • MEMBERSHIP

    Membership

    Learn about membership benefits and member types

    Member Directory

    Find your colleagues

    Types of Membership

    For all stages of your career                   

    Give the Gift
    of Membership

    Invest in an aspiring fisheries
    professional’s future

    Who Are Our Members

    From students to 50-year Golden Members

    My Account

    Log in to access member benefits or renew

    Join/Renew

    It’s Quick and Easy

    Organizational Membership

    Become a Strategic Partner!

  • POLICY

    POLICY

    Recovering America’s
    Wildlife Act

    Critical funding for state conservation programs

    Climate Change

    Communicate the impacts
    of climate change on fisheries

    Magnuson-Stevens Act

    Ensuring sustainability of marine fisheries

    Waters of the US

    News about Clean Water Act
    jurisdiction

    Water Quality

    Healthy fisheries
    require healthy waters                    

    Pebble Mine

    Protecting Bristol Bay salmon fisheries

    National Fish
    Habitat Partnership

    Addressing fish habitat regionally

    Infrastructure

    Funding impacts on fish habitat

    Aquaculture

    Providing food security for the future

    Future of the Nation’s
    Aquatic Resources

    Priorities for US fisheries policies

    Sport Fish Restoration Act

    Coming soon

    Recent Policy Statements

    Official policy statements of AFS

    Policy Letters

    Comments on policy,
    legislation, and regulations

    Advocacy Guidelines

    For Units and members

    Science Guidelines

    Practicing science appropriately

    Briefings

    Congressional briefings with our partners

    Resolutions

    Member-approved resolutions
    on policy

  • NEWS

    News

    Announcements

    Official AFS news

    Annual Meeting

    News from the meeting

    Members in the News

    Awards and interviews

    Policy News

    Round-up of all policy news

    Beneath the Surface Podcast

    A deep dive into the programs and people at AFS

    Federal Workforce and Budget Cuts

    Resources and Ways to Take Action

    Newsletter

    Bi-weekly newsletter for members and partners

    Press Releases

    News media releases

  • EVENTS

    Events

    Annual Meeting

    San Antonio 2025

    Future Annual Meetings

    Where we are heading

    Past Annual Meetings

    Where we’ve been

    World Fisheries Congress 2024

    Seattle, Washington

    Other Past Events

    Past special events

    Fisheries Events Calendar

    Events around the world

    Add Your Event Listing

    Submit your calendar item

  • JOBS

    Jobs

    Career Help from AFS

    Compilation of job listing boards

    Other Career Tips

    Career info for members

    Find a Job

    Listings from all over North America

    Post a Job

    Submit your job opening

  • PUBLICATIONS

    Publications

    AFS Journals Program

    More than 150 years of excellence

    AFS Books Program

    Publish with AFS

    Submit Journal Article

    Reach the right audience for your research

    Fisheries Magazine

    Monthly membership magazine

    Writing Tools

    Guides for authors and other resources

    Fishy Fridays

    Weekly blog highlighting AFS fisheries journal articles

    Bookstore

    Shop more than 180 titles

    Journal Online Access

    Log in to access journal articles

    Gray Literature Database

    Thousands of unpublished agency reports and research

  • Professional Development

    Professional Development

    Continuing Education

    Gain skills and enhance your career

    Professional Certification

    Official recognition of your expertise

    Hutton Junior Fisheries
    Biology Program

    Summer high school
    internship program

    Leadership Opportunities

    Hone your leadership skills, volunteer today!

    Webinars

    Check out upcoming sessions or browse our library

    More Online Resources

    Practical resources for fisheries professionals

  • Engagement

    Engagement

    Strategic Partners

    See how your organization can partner with AFS

    Support AFS

    Discover how you can support critical AFS programs

    The 1870 Society

    Recognizing generous individual donors who invest in the Society's mission

    2024 Annual Report

    Find out what AFS did for the fisheries community in 2024

    Shop AFS

    Check out the latest AFS merch here

Login
Logout

Fish and Wildlife Conservationists Praise Congress for Passing the America’s Conservation Enhancement Act (S.3051)

  • October 2, 2020
  • Policy News, Press Releases
  • Home
  • Fish and Wildlife Conservationists Praise Congress for Passing the America’s Conservation Enhancement Act (S.3051)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2020

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Parker Williams, Governmental Communications Manager, Ducks Unlimited, [email protected]
Leslie Garrett, Marketing & Communications Director, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, 202-543-6850 ex. 17, [email protected]
Mary Jane Williamson, Communications Director, American Sportfishing Association, 703-519-9691, x227
Dave Kinney, Associate Vice President, Trout Media, (856) 857-9669, [email protected]
Matt Smelser, Policy Communications Director, 512.739.9635, [email protected], National Audubon Society
Lacey McCormick, Senior Communications Manager, National Wildlife Federation, 512-610-7765
Ron Regan, Executive Director, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, [email protected]
Beth Beard, Senior Communications Manager, American Fisheries Society, [email protected], 240-687-3761

Fish and Wildlife Conservationists Praise Congress for Passing the America’s Conservation Enhancement Act (S.3051)

Washington, DC — Today, fish and wildlife conservation organizations applauded the historic passage of bipartisan legislation to conserve our nation’s natural resources, from fish and wildlife and their habitats to the vast multitude of species and ecosystems that will benefit from these robust restoration efforts made possible through S. 3051, The America’s Conservation Enhancement Act (ACE Act).

Once enacted, the bill will reauthorize the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) and codify the National Fish Habitat Partnership, two of the most successful conservation efforts in the nation, as well as reauthorize the Chesapeake Bay program. In addition to other crucial provisions, it will establish a task force between state and federal authorities to address Chronic Wasting Disease and ensure states have the authority to regulate types of fishing tackle based on localized effects as needed.

A coalition of organizations, representing millions of hunters, anglers, fish and wildlife professionals, outdoor industries and enthusiasts of all kinds commended the sponsors of this bipartisan legislation for their commitment to fish and wildlife conservation: Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY), Sen. Thomas Carper (D-DE), Sen. John Boozman (R-AR), Sen. BenjaminCardin (D-MD), and Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) as well as Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA), Rep. Robert Wittman (R-VA), Rep. Joe Cunningham (D-SC), and Rep. Marc Veasey (D-TX).

After previously passing the Senate by unanimous consent on September 16, the full House also passed ACE Act under unanimous consent on October 1, and it now awaits the President’s signature. We strongly encourage the President to sign the bill into law without delay.

“This legislation could not be coming at a more critical time for our nation’s natural resources,” said Sara Parker Pauley, Director of the Missouri Department of Conservation and President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “The public’s enthusiasm for nature and use of our lands and waters for outdoor recreation is at an unprecedented level, and we are thankful to Congress for recognizing and acting upon the increased need for conservation programs and funding. These programs will enable those entrusted with managing our natural resources to both address ongoing challenges, and proactively restore and conserve species and habitats before new problems arise.”

“The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) applauds the passage of the ACE Act, which builds off the significant successes earlier this Congress including the historic Great American Outdoors Act,” said CSF President Jeff Crane. “Simply put, the passage of the ACE Act would not have been possible without the bipartisan and steadfast members in the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, who have once again demonstrated their commitment to America’s sportsmen and women by navigating this important piece of legislation through Congress.”

“The ACE Act is strongly supported by the recreational fishing industry because it includes several provisions that will benefit fisheries conservation, and will safeguard anglers against unwarranted restrictions on their fishing equipment,” said Mike Leonard, vice president of Government Affairs for the American Sportfishing Association. “With today’s overwhelming and bipartisan approval of the ACE Act, this Congress is building an even stronger record as one of the most productive Congresses on conservation issues in recent memory.”

“The passage of the ACE Act is a great win for anglers and for fish habitat across the country,” said Steve Moyer, Vice President for Government Affairs at Trout Unlimited. “TU is especially pleased to see the National Fish Habitat Partnership Program, created by state fisheries agencies to improve fish habitat and water quality, is now federally recognized. Thanks to these partnerships, TU is able to leverage program funds often at a 5:1 ratio to improve coldwater habitat for species like the native westslope cutthroat and Eastern brook trout. We thank Congress for its excellent bipartisan, bicameral work to approve this critical legislation.”

“We would like to thank members of Congress for their expedient passage of the ACE Act, which codifies the National Fish Habitat Partnership,” said Ed Schriever, Chair of the National Fish Habitat Board (Idaho Fish & Game). “For us, the passage of this Act represents years of persistence and hard work by many supporters of our program dating back to 2008. We appreciate the efforts of the many organizations in helping to get this bill over the finish line.”

“At a time when many Americans are spending more time outdoors and appreciating our nation’s birds and other wildlife, this commitment by Congress will be a critical boost for birds, other wildlife, and people,” said Jesse Walls, Senior Director, Government Affair of the National Audubon Society. “By reauthorizing the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, the Chesapeake Bay Program, and more, Congress has ensured crucial support for improving and restoring wetlands and other habitat that serve an important role for not only wildlife, but for the economic health of communities across the country.”

“The passage of the ACE Act today is fantastic news for the conservation community,” said Ducks Unlimited Chief Executive Officer Adam Putnam. “In a package filled with vitally important conservation provisions, perhaps none are more crucial to waterfowl habitat than the reauthorization of NAWCA. Thank you to all the members of Congress who have identified the importance of conservation and worked with DU and others to achieve one of our highest legislative priorities. We’re elated to see such game-changing legislation pass both chambers of Congress, and we stand ready to help implement this important piece of America’s conservation legacy once the President signs it into law.”

“Passage of the ACE Act will not only benefit deer, ducks, fish, and our water quality, but it will also create jobs in conservation and help to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities for millions of Americans just when we need it most,” said Whit Fosburgh, president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “Sportsmen and women are grateful to both House and Senate leadership, as well as the many champions on both sides of the aisle, for their partnership and commitment to passing this critical conservation bill.”

“This important piece of legislation exemplifies the great collaborative work that can be accomplished when everyone works together for conservation,” said Dan Forster, Vice President & Chief Conservation Officer for the Archery Trade Association. “The archery industry applauds this commitment to proactive conservation investments and wise use of our nation’s valuable natural resources.”

“There is overwhelming and bipartisan support for the America’s Conservation Enhancement Act,” said Jason Rano, Federal Executive Director for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. “Legislators from both parties recognize the importance of clean water and a healthy environment. For us in the Chesapeake Bay region, this broad commitment to a restored Bay and increased funding for the Chesapeake Bay Program, as well as for other grant programs that benefit fish and wildlife habitat and clean water, are significant investments that will benefit the health, environment, and economy of the Bay and all those that live, work, and recreate throughout the watershed.”

“This has been a promising year for conservation policy, and we are thrilled to see the America’s Conservation Enhancement Act pass! Following up on the successful passage of the Great American Outdoors Act, ACE now dedicates funding for wildlife habitat including the North American Wetlands Conservation Act which is one of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s most cherished conservation programs.” Said Howard K. Vincent President and CEO of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever.

“The National Fish Habitat Partnerships is critical to improving resilience for the forty percent of all freshwater fish species in North America that are imperiled as a result of pollution, habitat loss, water withdrawals, and invasive species.” said Douglas J. Austen, Ph.D., Executive Director of the American Fisheries Society. “We are so pleased that Congress has recognized the important conservation benefits of this program.”

“Right now, when Washington is divided on so many issues, we are grateful that the U.S. House of Representatives rallied together across party lines to enact bipartisan investments to restore wildlife populations and conserve our outdoor heritage,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “At a time when a third of wildlife face heightened risk of extinction, the ACE Act restores essential fish and wildlife habitat like wetlands and the Chesapeake Bay, eradicates wildlife disease – especially chronic wasting disease, addresses invasive species, and engages the next generation of sportswomen and sportsmen. We urge President Trump to swiftly sign this common-sense conservation measure into law.”

  • Recent News

    • AFS Calls for Habitat Modification to Remain in Definition of Harm in Endangered Species Act May 15, 2025
    • Webinar Recording – Great Lakes Heritage Trail May 13, 2025
    • Why Do Paddlefish Restorations Work in Some Reservoirs, But Not Others? May 9, 2025
    • Brent Nichols Elected Second Vice President of AFS May 9, 2025
    • AFS Asks House to Maintain Robust Funding for NOAA and Sea Grant May 9, 2025
  • About

    The American Fisheries Society is 501c Non-Profit Society

     

    Donate Now

    Quick Links

    • ABOUT
    • POLICY
    • EVENTS
    • PUBLICATIONS
    • MEMBERSHIP
    • NEWS
    • JOBS
    • Contact Us
    • ABOUT
    • POLICY
    • EVENTS
    • PUBLICATIONS
    • MEMBERSHIP
    • NEWS
    • JOBS
    • Contact Us

    Contact

    • 425 Barlow Place
      Bethesda, MD 20814
    • (301) 897-8616
    Facebook-f Twitter Instagram Linkedin-in Vimeo-v

    Copyright © 2025 American Fisheries Society | Privacy Policy 

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Accept Read More
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    Non-necessary
    Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
    SAVE & ACCEPT