Washington D.C.The Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies applauds the Department of Interior’s Secretary’s Order 3442, allocating $437 million from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to all 50 states, U.S. territories and the District of Columbia. This order will strengthen outdoor access and recreation nationwide by providing funding to expand green spaces, improve recreation infrastructure, and enhance conservation efforts—particularly in underserved communities.

“Secretary Burgum’s order demonstrates his commitment to working cooperatively with state fish and wildlife agencies and the conservation community”, said Judy Camuso, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and President of the Association. “Enhancing access to our public lands while safeguarding our nations natural resources, especially those listed in State Wildlife Action Plans, benefits our nature, outdoor recreation, clean air and water and our economy.”

The Secretary’s Order directs Interior bureaus to work closely with state and tribal governments to ensure LWCF investments support projects that benefit wildlife habitat, improve water quality and provide flood protection while creating new recreational opportunities. This includes projects identified in State Wildlife Action Plans, which identifies species of greatest conservation need, their essential habitats, key threats/stressors, priority conservation actions, and research and monitoring needs.