137 



Teaming With Wildlife seeks to expand the same "user pay/user benefit" concept to additional 

 outdoor recreation equipment such as hikmg, camping and photography gear The fee would be 

 collected at the manufacturer's level and be distributed to the states through the Fish and Wildlife 

 Service This approach is easily administered with low overhead costs and is not burdensome to 

 industry The states would be granted funds based on a formula that uses 2/3 of the human 

 population and 1/3 land area of each state Approved projects would be financed on a 75% 

 federal 25% state basis Congress will have oversight to ensure that agencies are held 

 accountable, much like the Wildlife and Sportfish Restoration programs 



In these times of downsizing, the "user pay /user benefit" concept is the most viable option 

 available Teaming With Wildlife creates a permanent, dedicated funding source that guarantees 

 states reliable and adequate income for fulfilling their mandates to manage and conserve the fish 

 and wildlife resources in their states, and to satisfy growing public demands for wildlife-related 

 recreation and education opportunities 



Conclusion 



Teaming With Wildlife provides the Congress with an immediate unique opportunity to help 

 meet pressing fish and wildlife conservation needs The fijnds are badly needed to respond to 

 public interest and demands for improving resource management We urge your support and 

 prompt enactment of legislation to provide the essential funds 



Thank you for your support of scientifically based natural resource programs Please enter these 

 comments into the official hearing record 



