Legal Definitions - FWS

The FWS stands for the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

This is a federal government agency within the U.S. Department of the Interior. Its primary mission is to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The FWS manages the National Wildlife Refuge System, enforces federal wildlife laws, protects endangered species, restores important habitats, and oversees migratory bird populations, among other responsibilities.

• Example 1: Habitat Protection and Development Review
  A large energy company proposes building a new natural gas pipeline that would cross several miles of wetlands in a rural area. These wetlands are identified as critical habitat for a federally protected migratory bird species. Before construction can begin, the company must consult with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). The FWS will review the project's potential environmental impacts, recommend modifications to avoid or minimize harm to the bird's habitat, and ultimately issue permits or require mitigation measures to ensure compliance with federal laws like the Endangered Species Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

  This example illustrates how the FWS plays a crucial role in protecting sensitive habitats and endangered species by reviewing development projects and ensuring they adhere to federal environmental regulations.

• Example 2: Wildlife Law Enforcement
  Federal agents receive a tip about an individual illegally trapping and selling protected raptors, such as hawks and falcons, on the black market. Investigators from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) would lead the investigation into this illicit activity. They would gather evidence, execute search warrants, and, if sufficient evidence is found, arrest the individual. The FWS would then work with federal prosecutors to bring charges under laws like the Lacey Act, which prohibits trafficking in illegally harvested wildlife, and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

  This demonstrates the FWS's critical function in enforcing federal wildlife protection laws, investigating illegal wildlife trade, and bringing perpetrators to justice.

• Example 3: Conservation and Refuge Management
  A state government identifies a large tract of undeveloped land with unique ecological significance, home to several rare plant species and a diverse array of waterfowl. To ensure its permanent protection, the state partners with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to establish a new National Wildlife Refuge. The FWS would then be responsible for acquiring the land, developing a comprehensive management plan for the refuge, conducting scientific research on its ecosystems, and managing public access for activities like hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation, all while prioritizing the conservation of its natural resources.

  This example highlights the FWS's direct involvement in land conservation, including the establishment and ongoing management of national wildlife refuges to preserve biodiversity and provide public access to natural areas.