USFWS R5 Federal Aid: Wildlife Restoration Program

Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration

PURPOSE:

Since 1950, the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Program has provided funds to state fish and wildlife agencies for:

The restoration, conservation, management, and enhancement of fish species that are sought by recreational anglers, and the provision for public use of and benefits from these resources.
To conduct aquatic resource education programs that are designed to enhance the public's understanding of aquatic resources and recreational fishing, and to promote the development of responsible attitudes and ethics toward the aquatic environment.

WHERE FUNDS COME FROM:

A federal excise tax is collected from manufacturers of fishing equipment, as well as a portion of the federal fuel tax that is attributed to motorboat usage. These taxes are passed on to the boater and angler, who benefit from the recreational an educational opportunities created with the funds; users pay, and users benefit.

When these are purchased:	This portion of the wholesale price supports wildlife:
-Fishing Tackle, including rods, reels, line and terminal tackle. -Motorboat Fuel Tax	10%

WHAT FUNDS ARE USED FOR:

Research into problems affecting fish populations and aquatic habitats
Acquisition and improvement of aquatic habitat
Fish population surveys
Stocking fish in suitable habitat
Construction of boating and fishing access
Aquatic resource education programs
Fishing skills programs
Communicating the results of research and management activities to the public

Funds cannot be used for law enforcement or public relations activities for the purpose of promoting the state fish and wildlife agency.

State fish and wildlife agencies submit proposals for projects that address their needs and priorities. States are reimbursed for 75% of the cost of eligible projects, providing a 25% share of state funds. Federal Aid funds are typically matched by state hunting and fishing license fees.

How Sport Fish Restoration Funds are Collected and Distributed

How Sport Fish restoration funds are distributed to the states in the northeast region

For additional information regarding this Web page, contact Dee Mazzarese, in the Northeast Region Division of Federal Aid Office, at dee_mazzarese@fws.gov

Return to theUSFWS Northeast Region Division of Federal Aid
For information about USFWS Northeast Region visit the USFWS Northeast Region Home Page
Visit the Division of Federal Aid Home Page
Visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Home Page
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