From BHA:
Ambitious conservation plan commits to active efforts to engage a range of stakeholders and advance goal of conserving 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030
A comprehensive conservation plan released today by the Biden administration prioritizes collaborative conservation models that ensure accountability and public transparency, incentivize voluntary stewardship by private land owners, and focus on the conservation of fish and wildlife habitat important to public lands hunters and anglers.
The administration earlier this year announced ambitious conservation goals, committing to an objective of conserving at least 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030 in an approach steeped in active engagement by a broad range of stakeholders. The report released today adds substance and detailed strategy to these goals, providing a blueprint for subsequent action by the administration and others.
“The Biden administration’s America the Beautiful plan offers a forward-thinking conversation agenda that will add specificity to its established goals and build meaningful strategies to address climate change and conservation of intact lands and waters,” said John Gale, conservation director of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. “Success depends on our ability to forge – and grow – real partnerships with a wide array of stakeholders, including tribal, state and local officials; private landowners; and hunters and anglers.
“Strong and active collaboration will be essential, and creative thinking will be critical, beyond and in addition to the reliance on traditional conservation designations,” Gale continued. “Acknowledging efforts already underway and building on those examples is vital as well. Models of active stewardship on both private and public lands currently exist, and it’s imperative that we elevate those while establishing new and innovative strategies that unite us in achieving an ambitious vision.”
Gale concluded, “We offer our thanks to the Biden administration for its leadership and investment in conservation priorities that also generate jobs and contribute to economic recovery. Hunters and anglers stand ready to support efforts to conserve important landscapes, bolster fish and wildlife habitat and expand public opportunities to access and enjoy our shared lands and waters.”
