As a lead Federal agency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife (Service) prepares National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance for a variety of Service-led major Federal actions. With special expertise in fish and wildlife and associated habitats and in some instances, jurisdictional authority, we also fulfill a nation-wide role as a cooperating or participating agency to assist other Federal agencies in preparation and review of NEPA compliance. Service engagement throughout the NEPA process allows for identification of potential effects to fish and wildlife resources and associated habitats, conservation opportunities, and mitigation measures.

What We Do

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Our Laws and Regulations

The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. § 4321, et seq.), as amended, sets the national policy for protection and enhancement of the human environment. This procedural statue mandates Federal agencies consider reasonably foreseeable effects of proposed major Federal actions on the quality of the human environment during the Federal decision-making process, unless otherwise exempted. Through this process, the Service ensures that reasonably foreseeable effects to fish and wildlife and associated habitats and other affected resources are adequately considered in the Federal decision-making process. Our goal is to make more informed Federal decisions to further the Service mission to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The Service also engages with agencies, Tribes, and the public in the Federal decision-making process to allow for better informed Federal decisions.