The Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration (WSFR) Program administers grant programs that distribute millions of dollars annually to state agencies and Tribes to manage fish, wildlife, and habitats, evaluate and enhance species of greatest conservation need, and provide recreational opportunities for fishing, hunting, shooting, and boating.
What We Do
Our Projects and Initiatives
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR) works with states, insular areas, and the District of Columbia to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, their habitats, and the hunting, sport fishing and recreational boating opportunities they provide. We provide national leadership, oversight and/or administrative support for the following grant programs:
- Wildlife Restoration
- Sport Fish Restoration
- Clean Vessel Act
- Boating Infrastructure
- National Coastal Wetlands Conservation
- State Wildlife Grants
- Tribal Wildlife Grants
- Multistate Conservation
- The National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, & Wildlife-Associated Recreation
Through WSFR, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also administers the Theodore Roosevelt Genius Prize and Advisory Council.
Our Laws and Regulations
We implement laws including the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937 (popularly known as the Pittman–Robertson Act), and the Sport Fish Restoration Act of 1950 (commonly referred to as the Dingell-Johnson Act).
Latest Stories and Topics
Stories
History and Culture
On the fourth Saturday of every September, National Hunting and Fishing Day recognizes the nation’s hunters and anglers. While not all Americans participate in hunting and fishing, they are important outdoor activities that connect people to wild animals and wild places.
Recreation
The New Mexico Wildlife Federation's Nature Niños initiative has helped youth and families-across generations connect with nature. Nature Niños creates access to the outdoors by hosting a pay what you can summer camp for youth, field trips, art and nature exploration, and other conservation-based...
When practiced correctly, archery is fun, safe, and offers activities for everyone at any age and ability level. Across the nation multiple programs, supported by manufactures excise taxes, are expanding access to shooting sports at both the recreational and competitive level including the National...
Habitat Restoration
Pollinators across Washington and California will benefit from nearly 400 acres of restored habitat thanks to dedicated conservation partners funded by the State Wildlife Grant (SWG) Program. Prairies, grasslands, and oak savannah habitat extend through British Columbia, Washington and Oregon, and...
People can go target shooting year-round, but the month of August is National Shooting Sports Month—a time to celebrate and enjoy the shooting sports. Data from the National Shooting Sports Foundation shows 60 million Americans participate in target shooting and that millions more are interested in...
Funded through excise taxes on fishing tackle and motorboat fuel, Sport Fish Restoration funds are administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They help pay for fisheries projects, boat ramps, docks, and other public waterway needs. Lake Hartwell's Green Pond Landing is a shining start for...