Midwest Region Conserving the nature of America

Conserving the Nature of America

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.

Midwest states receive $181 million for sportspeople and conservation

Canada geese with goslings
Canada geese with goslings. Photo by Alex Galt/USFWS.

We're celebrating the disbursement of nearly $1 billion to all 50 states and U.S. territories for conservation programs. This includes programs focused on protecting and restoring habitat, access for outdoor recreation, and opportunities for outdoor education and outdoor skill development. A combined $181.5 million will be disbursed to Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin. These funds were generated through excise taxes on hunting, shooting and fishing equipment.

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Seeking public comment on draft recovery plan for eastern massasauga rattlesnake

Eastern massasauga rattlesnake
Eastern massasauga rattlesnake. Photo by Abbey Kucera/USFWS.

We're seeking public comment on a draft recovery plan for the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, a small and timid species that was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 2016. The goal of the plan is to ensure the long-term viability of the snake to the point at which it no longer warrants ESA protection.

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Eagle trio sees parenting success in Illinois

Three adult bald eagles on the nest
Nesting bald eagle trio. Photo courtesy of Stewards of Upper Mississippi River Refuge.

Families come in all shapes and sizes, and that’s true for wildlife too! Meet Valor I, Valor II and Starr, a breeding trio of bald eagles that live along the Mississippi River in Illinois. For several years, fans from all over the world have been watching this nontraditional family through a webcam as the eagles deal with the trials and tribulations of parenting.

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Fish and Aquatic Conservation has a new leader in the Great Lakes Region

Aaron Woldt in the field and with his dog Winter
Aaron Woldt in the field and with his dog Winter. Photos courtesy of Aaron Woldt.

We're happy to announce that a long-time champion for aquatic conservation has officially taken the helm of Fish and Aquatic Conservation in the Great Lakes Region. This week, Aaron Woldt was named the new Assistant Regional Director for Fish and Aquatic Conservation. Woldt has been acting in this capacity since Todd Turner’s retirement on July 31, 2019.

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How do birds keep warm in the winter?

Frosty common raven. Photo courtesy of Keith Williams.
Frosty common raven. Photo courtesy of Keith Williams.

Have you ever wondered how birds stay warm when temperatures plunge? Birds of all shapes and sizes have special adaptations for living in cold climates. Learn more about tough birds and their tips for staying warm.

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Last updated: March 23, 2020