This is the second of a two-part series on federal government agencies and commissions that make rules and regulations for wildlife and natural resources laws and administer them.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) – This department implements the provisions of the legislation collectively known as the Farm Bill. Agencies under this department include the Farm Service Agency (FSA), the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and the United States Forest Service (USFS).
The FSA administers commodity and disaster programs, plus the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The FSA’s responsibilities include farm programs, farm loans, commodity operations, management, and state operations.
The NRCS provides technical support for the FSA for implementation of the CRP and administers many other conservation programs, as well as providing technical and financial assistance to farmers and ranchers to promote conservation of natural resources. The NRCS, formerly known as the Soil Conservation Service, found its origins in the Great Depression as a response to the Dust Bowl of the Great Plains.
The USFS administers the nation’s millions of acres of national forests and grasslands, which is approximately 25% of federal lands. It is the only major national land agency that is outside the U.S. Department of the Interior. The USFS provides leadership in the protection, management, and use of the nation’s forest, rangeland, and aquatic ecosystems.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – The EPA is an independent agency of the federal government for environmental protection. The agency is led by its administrator who is appointed by the president and approved by Congress. This agency conducts environmental assessment, research, and education. The EPA acts under statutes, which are the authority of laws passed by Congress.
National Marine Fisheries Service – This department is a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) within the Department of Commerce. Also known as NOAA Fisheries, it was initiated in 1871 with a primary goal of research, protection, management, and restoration of commercial and recreational fisheries and their habitat, and protected species.
White House Council on Environmental Quality – Founded by Congress within the Executive Office of the President to coordinate federal environmental efforts. They work closely with other agencies in the development of environmental policies and initiatives.
The Courts – The courts have played a crucial role in conservation law by defining the statutory authority of state and federal governments in enacting legislation. Although the state ownership doctrine contains the caveat that it is subject to the exercise of federal power, historically, court decisions support state control of wildlife, except in cases in which the federal government can demonstrate an overriding national interest designated unto itself, such as interstate commerce, treaty rights, or action regarding wildlife on federal land.
James L. Cummins is executive director of Wildlife Mississippi, a nonprofit conservation organization founded to conserve, restore, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plant resources throughout Mississippi. Their web site is www.wildlifemiss.org.
