Baldwin Crane Conservation Act Clears Committee

Press Release

Baldwin Crane Conservation Act Clears Committee

Bipartisan Legislation Builds on Wisconsin Conservation Efforts

The House Natural Resources Committee today passed legislation authored by Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to protect cranes throughout North America and the world. A companion bill authored by Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) has been introduced in the Senate. The Crane Conservation Act would provide funding to assist in the recovery of several endangered crane species, enlist the Department of Interior in helping enhance international and domestic crane conservation projects, and encourage the Department of Interior to seek the input of individuals and organizations actively involved in crane conservation.

"Wisconsin has been a world leader in protecting this endangered family of birds," said Congresswoman Baldwin. "With federal support, the work done at the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo can inspire and instruct conservationists at home and abroad in their efforts to protect this magnificent species. I'm delighted to see this legislation pass in committee, and I look forward to it passing the full House," Baldwin said.

Cranes are the most endangered family of birds in the world, with eleven of the world's fifteen species at risk of extinction. None is rarer than the North American Whooping Crane. Industrial development, pollution, and encroachments on their natural habitat have all contributed to the shrinking crane population worldwide. Baldwin's bill will encourage further crane conservation efforts on behalf of endangered cranes throughout the world by supporting initiatives and organizations dedicated to the protection of these beautiful birds and their ecosystems.

Source