V-9 



Task forces on ad hoc basis are constantly being formed for special 

 interbureau purposes. These developments and other basic respon- 

 sibilities of longer standing place the Department of the Interior 

 in an expanding role of leadership and responsibility in estuarine 

 research, planning, and management. 



Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife 



In the conservation of estuarine fish and wildlife resources and 

 the preservation of estuarine habitat, the Bureau of Sport Fisheries 

 and wildlife has a very substantial program. Under a variety of 

 legislative authorities the Bureau activities include investigations 

 and recommendations for the preservation and enhancement of fish 

 and wildlife resources in connection with waterfowl population 

 statistics and of regulations pertaining to waterfowl; Federal aid 

 to the States for acquisition of wetlands, research on fish and 

 wildlife, and access and development of facilities for fishing and 

 hunting; training of biologists and dissemination of technical 

 advice; conservation education: and pesticide monitoring. 



The Bureau is also charged with the second estuary study underway 

 in the Department, the National Estuary Protection Act (PL 90-454). 

 This Act expresses the intent of Congress ". . .to recognize, 

 preserve, and protect the responsibilities of the States in protect- 

 ing, conserving, and restoring the estuaries in the United States." 



