Bipartisan Bill to Help Communities Support Bird Habitat Clears House Committee

H.R. 3276, the Native Communities and Hen Habitat Stewardship Act, was launched by Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Ben Cline (R-VA). It addresses an vital actuality of chook conservation: birds depend upon wholesome habitat not solely in wild areas, but additionally within the cities, cities, and dealing landscapes they encounter all through their annual journeys. 

“Birds depend on wholesome habitat not solely in undeveloped areas, however within the locations the place individuals dwell, work, and recreate,” mentioned Felice Stadler, vp of presidency affairs on the Nationwide Audubon Society. “North American chook populations have plunged by practically 30 p.c since 1970, and communities want extra instruments to preserve and restore the habitat birds depend upon all through their annual journeys. The Native Communities & Hen Habitat Stewardship Act would assist meet that want whereas creating more healthy, extra resilient neighborhoods.” 

“Birds are a vital a part of our ecosystems and our on a regular basis lives, and each group has a job to play in defending them,” mentioned Dingell. “Since 1970, chook populations in North America have declined by a 3rd and species are disappearing.  Immediately’s passage of the Native Communities and Hen Habitat Stewardship Act by the Home Pure Sources Committee is a crucial step towards giving cities, cities, and native companions the instruments they should restore habitat, cut back hazards to birds, and have interaction extra individuals in conservation. I’m grateful to Audubon for its partnership as we work to get this invoice handed into legislation.” 

“Birds play an vital function in sustaining wholesome ecosystems, and accountable conservation efforts may help defend migratory pathways whereas lowering the chance of avian illnesses,” mentioned Cline. “These initiatives are simplest when led by native communities and municipal leaders who perceive the distinctive wants of their areas. I’m happy that this laws superior by means of the Home Committee on Pure Sources. As this measure strikes ahead, we should be certain that any federal assist stays focused, clear, and accountable to the taxpayers who fund it.”  

The Native Communities and Hen Habitat Stewardship Act helps communities creating and enhancing habitat by means of voluntary conservation tasks that profit each birds and folks. It might present funding for native companions (from municipalities to group teams) to revive inexperienced area, enhance habitat connectivity, and cut back bodily threats to birds.  

The invoice now strikes to consideration by the total Home of Representatives.