In keeping with its mission of protecting America’s natural resources, the National Wildlife Federation has introduced a bill in Congress to make it easier for animals to complete their centuries-old migration patterns. Known as the Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act, the bipartisan legislation proposes resources to help states and Native American tribes ensure animals can move freely despite human-made barriers.
Obstacles such as roads, fences, trails, and power plants disrupt these essential pathways. In addition, climate change is forcing many species to move to new areas for food, water, and breeding, and the increasing size of cities also causes problems.
The legislation includes grants to reduce barriers for moose, deer, and elk species. It also supports further research into migration patterns and cooperation with the US Fish & Wildlife Service’s habitat improvement programs. The bill would also continue efforts by the US Geological Survey to provide accurate migration maps.
Members of Congress from three Western states introduced the bill in 2024. The House Committee on Natural Resources has conducted hearings; the legislation awaits action in the Senate.
