Director's Message

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a world leader and trusted partner in conservation, as well as a family of professionals who share a deep commitment to our country’s natural resources. Regardless of the challenge—whether it’s managing for climate change or connecting people with the outdoors—we can be proud of our role in conserving the nature of America.

This year we celebrate two milestones in our history. Seventy-five years ago, Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling, Director of the U.S. Biological Survey, the forerunner of today’s Service, designed the first Duck Stamp—two mallards landing in a marsh pond. Since then, Federal Duck Stamp sales have generated more than $700 million to help purchase or lease more than 5.2 million acres of waterfowl habitat in the United States.

In August, the Small Wetlands Program will celebrate a half century of conserving wetlands and grasslands in the Prairie Pothole Region, a 300,000-square mile area in the Upper Midwest and adjacent Canadian provinces that contains some of the most important waterfowl and grassland bird species habitat on the continent. 

We’ve had great success in our past, but as American humorist Will Rogers said, “Even if you're on the right track you'll get run over if you just sit there.” I believe the greatest days of this agency lie ahead, which is why we must continue adapting to a changing world and reaching out to children—the next generation of conservationists. I am privileged to be on this journey with you and inspired by the work you do every day.