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officials since 1955, indicates that the long-term population of Northern Pintails is 

 down 39%; Scaups down by 20%. The American Black Duck population has 

 experienced a significant long-term decline as well. For the first time in history, 

 the Canada Goose hunting season in the Atlantic Flyway was closed for the 1995- 

 1996 season because of a steep decline in their breeding population. The breeding 

 survey for these geese revealed a decline from 180,000 nesting pairs in 1988 to 

 29,000 pairs in 1995. These declines in waterfowl populations buttress the case 

 against any weakening of anti-baiting regulations and enforcement. 



We also are very concerned with the decline of many bird species in this nation 

 due to the loss of habitat. We would encourage you and your colleagues to 

 support the continued acquisition of essential bird and wildlife habitat in our 

 National Wildlife Refuges and National Parks as well as supporting increased 

 funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund for State land acquisition. 



With our nation growing and sprawling and consuming huge chunks of open 

 space, it is imperative that we assure our citizens that we will not continue to 

 erode our natural heritage and directly contribute to the decline in game and 

 nongame species. With over 50% of America's wetlands gone, with over 95% of 

 our prairie grasslands gone, and with the continued fi-agmentation and conversion 

 of forest land, our wildlife resources are at risk. 



If we can be of assistance in providing you with any information, particularly 

 related to the data cited in this statement, please let us know. Gerald W. Winegrad, 

 our Director of Government Relations, would be glad to work with the Committee. 

 We look forward to working with you in enhancing opportunities for the 

 enhancement of our avian resources. 



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