To provide for the conservation and designation of habitat connectivity areas, with support from the voluntary conservation programs administered by the Secretary of Agriculture, as American wildlife corridors, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · February 5, 2024
Referred to the Committee on Agriculture, and in addition to the Committee on Natural Resources, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
This bill establishes a federal program to identify and designate wildlife corridors on lands enrolled in USDA conservation programs, with the goal of helping animals move freely across landscapes and maintain healthy populations. The Department of Agriculture, working with the U.S. Geological Survey and Fish and Wildlife Service, would identify habitat connectivity areas within one year, develop maps of these areas, and report to Congress on progress and remaining information gaps. Within three years, the Secretary of Agriculture would formally designate certain areas as American wildlife corridors based on criteria including whether they support multiple species or threatened and endangered species. Landowners participating in these designated corridors would receive technical assistance, educational support, and potentially priority for reenrollment in conservation programs, though the bill does not specify new funding amounts or allocations for these activities. The legislation aims to encourage voluntary conservation practices that balance agricultural production with wildlife habitat protection on private and public lands.
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