February 14, 2022

Wyden, Merkley: Oregon To Receive More than $35 Million in Federal Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Grants

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that Oregon will receive more than $35.1 million in federal Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration (WSFR) grants.

“This partnership with hunters, anglers and others builds even stronger recreational opportunities in Oregon while also protecting sustainable resources,” Wyden said. “Our state’s world-renowned natural treasures generate recreation jobs and the ability for everybody to enjoy the outdoors. I’m glad this grants program was reauthorized in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and that these funds will help Oregon to preserve what makes our state such a special place.”

“Our lands and waters are integral to the futures of countless fish and wildlife, as well as many Oregonians’ quality of life and livelihoods,” said Merkley. “These ecosystems must be protected, but we can’t do that without sufficient conservation programs. I am grateful for this federal investment from U.S. Fish and Wildlife, and the on-the-ground local conservation programs these funds will create and support. We have the power to ensure our land and water ecosystems can thrive for generations to come. This is a great step for Oregon and beyond.”

The WSFR program, through the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration and Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration acts, was reauthorized in November 2021 as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law supported by Wyden and Merkley. The Sport Fish Restoration funds go toward restoration, conservation, management, and enhancing sport fish populations. The Wildlife Restoration funds go toward restoration, conservation, and management of wildlife for the benefit of the public, hunter education, and the development and management of shooting ranges.

Oregon will receive the following amounts for these objectives:

  • Wildlife restoration $21.98 million
  • Sportfish restoration, $8.81 million
  • Basic hunter education $4.25 million
  • Enhanced hunter education $151,095