The Migratory Bird Program works with partners to protect, restore and conserve bird populations and their habitats for the benefit of future generations by: ensuring long-term ecological sustainability of all migratory bird populations, increasing socioeconomic benefits derived from birds, improving hunting and bird watching and other outdoor bird-related experiences, and increasing awareness of the value of migratory birds and their habitats for their aesthetic, ecological, recreational and economic significance.
One of our greatest tools to achieve this mission is the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), a federal law supporting the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) and the Tripartite Agreement on wetlands between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Through its competitive grant program, NAWCA provides funding and support for public-private partnerships to protect, restore, and enhance wetland habitats essential for migratory birds and other wildlife. These efforts provide critical habitats for Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) and species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), while delivering broader benefits such as improving water quality, reducing flooding, and supporting recreational activities like birdwatching, hunting, and fishing.
NAWCA Services:
- U.S. Standard Grants
- U.S. Small Grants
- Mexico Grants
- Canada Grants
The North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) was enacted on December 13, 1989, as a groundbreaking federal law to address the rapid loss of wetlands critical to migratory birds and other wildlife. NAWCA provides funding and support for public-private partnerships to protect, restore, and enhance wetland habitats across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Grants are funded through federal appropriations as well as fines, penalties, and forfeitures collected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), with additional funding from interest accrued on Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act funds and the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, which supports coastal wetland projects.
NAWCA builds upon the foundation of the historic North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP), established in 1986 in response to historically low waterfowl populations. NAWMP’s vision of international collaboration ensures that conservation efforts under NAWCA align with broader goals for waterfowl and wetland ecosystems. Through nearly four decades of continental conservation, NAWMP has protected, restored, and enhanced wetland habitats across North America, benefiting not only waterfowl but also other migratory birds, wildlife, and the communities that depend on wetlands for vital ecosystem services.
By funding habitat conservation projects that address evolving challenges like agricultural development, urbanization, and climate challenges, NAWCA translates NAWMP’s vision into action. Together, the collaborative initiatives of NAWMP and NAWCA deliver far-reaching, nature-based solutions that benefit wildlife, habitats, and people, highlighting the power of international cooperation and innovative partnership in advancing conservation.