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FWS proposes to promulgate regulations directing the management of the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) to promote the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of all lands and waters under the jurisdiction of the NWRS. These regulations would be based on language in the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, directing the Service to ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the System are maintained for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans. FWS has intentionally coordinated with State and Tribal partners to develop the proposed regulations. FWS solicited comments from States through the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) and held three meetings with AFWA and State leadership to discuss the proposed regulations. FWS also held two public webinars for Tribal partners across the country to discuss the proposed regulations and to gain their feedback.

Statement of Need:

FWS proposes to promulgate regulations directing the management of the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) to promote the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of all lands and waters under the jurisdiction of the NWRS. These regulations would be based on language in the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, directing the Service to ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the System are maintained for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

Summary of the Legal Basis:

5 U.S.C. 301, 16 U.S.C. 460k, 16 U.S.C. 664, 16 U.S.C. 668dd668ee, 16 U.S.C. 715i, and Public Law 115-20.