8207

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 8207
• Author: Wilson, S. N.
• Title: Conserving Federally Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed Species While Providing and Enhancing Recreational Fisheries Programs.
• USFW Year: 1995.
• USFW - Doc Type: \
• Copyright Material: NO

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November, 1994, within the United States there were 103 species of fish and 57 species of
clams/mussels on the threatened or endangered species list (50 CFR 17.11 & 17.12).
Approximately 36 percent of the fishes, 64 percent of the crayfishes, and 69 percent of the
freshwater mussels in the United States are ranked as extinct or imperiled (Data from the National
Network of Natural Heritage Programs and The Nature Conservancy, Eastern Regional Office).
Most of North America's aquatic environments and biological communities have been significantly
altered. Habitat loss and degradation is the most commonly cited cause for fish declines. As
habitat integrity was compromised, resulting conditions reduced the capacity of ecosystems to
support indigenous species. Scarcity of indigenous sport fish and public desire for specific species
contributed to the introduction of nonindigenous fish species. The risks associated with
nonindigenous species were often not well understood, and introductions have been cited for the
decline of some indigenous species. Nonindigenous species have now established self sustaining
populations in most aquatic ecosystems in the U. S., where some provide significant social and
economic benefits. Management for game and nongame fishes, indigenous and nonindigenous
fishes can be complementary or at least compatible in many situations.
Given the present condition of aquatic ecosystems and composition of aquatic communities,
fisheries management must be multipurpose and incorporate an ecosystem approach to
conservation and use and be based on a sound understanding of life history and habitat
requirements. The ability of aquatic ecosystems to produce and support fish are limited. An
effective ecosystem approach will consider human needs and impacts as integral components, and
will be responsive to the desires of the public that use and appreciate aquatic resources.
There is an inextricable link between resource stewardship, recreational fisheries, and effective
partnerships. Abundant recreational fishery resources depend on healthy aquatic ecosystems, and
resource stewardship depends on the personal and financial commitment of the recreational
fisheries community. Partnerships between Federal agencies, States, Tribes, the recreational
fisheries and boating community, conservation organizations, and the public are necessary to
develop and implement programs that improve the quality of aquatic environments, recover
Federally threatened, endangered, or proposed (Federal T/E/P) species, preclude the need to list
species, and provide and enhance recreational fisheries.
The significant economic, cultural, and social value of fishery resources coupled with the
noticeable declines of these resources portends the potential for conflict between conservation of
Federal T/E/P species and recreational fisheries management. The purpose of this position paper
is to provide a framework for protecting aquatic ecosystems, restoring deteriorated ecosystems,
and providing recreational fishing opportunities and benefits that are consistent with maintaining
ecosystem health and conserving Federal T/E/P species.
Supporting Principles and Action Items:
1. Pertinent Laws and Federal Policies:
There are many Federal laws that provide for and recognize the importance of aquatic resources