National Wildlife Services Advisory Committee
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National Wildlife Services Advisory Committee (NWSAC) advises the USDA on strategies to manage wildlife conflicts while ensuring ecological balance. It focuses on issues where wildlife impacts agriculture, human health, and safety, providing recommendations that aim to be scientifically sound and stakeholder-inclusive.
Mission
NWSAC's mission is to assist the USDA in formulating policies that address wildlife damage management in a manner that is effective, humane, and respectful of ecological systems. By gathering input from diverse stakeholders, the committee works to ensure that wildlife services programs are responsive to both agricultural needs and wildlife conservation concerns.[1]
Parent organization
NWSAC is managed by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), which is part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). APHIS oversees various programs aimed at protecting agricultural resources and the environment.[2]
Legislation
While not established by specific legislation, NWSAC was created by the USDA in 1986 to provide expert advice on wildlife services policies.
Partners
- Agricultural producers and industry groups
- Conservation organizations
- State wildlife agencies
- Academic and research institutions[3]
Number of employees
The committee includes 20 members, appointed for their expertise in agriculture, wildlife management, academia, and public interest.[4]
Organization structure
NWSAC members are selected to represent a broad range of interests and expertise.
Leader
The committee is led by a Chair, who guides the advisory process and represents the committee's consensus.
Divisions
There are no formal divisions, but the committee might form ad hoc groups for specific issues:
- Subgroups could be formed for particular wildlife management strategies or policy reviews.
List of programs
- Advising on wildlife damage management policies
- Evaluating the effectiveness of existing wildlife services programs
- Recommendations for research and development in wildlife conflict resolution
Last total enacted budget
The budget for NWSAC is not publicly specified; it operates within the broader APHIS budget.
Staff
The committee does not have dedicated staff; administrative support is provided by APHIS employees.
Funding
Funding for NWSAC's activities is part of the USDA's APHIS budget for wildlife services.
Services provided
NWSAC provides advisory services, including policy recommendations to manage wildlife conflicts, ensure public health and safety, and support agricultural productivity while conserving wildlife.
Regulations overseen
NWSAC does not oversee regulations directly but influences policy that could lead to regulatory adjustments in wildlife management practices.
Headquarters address
1400 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20250, United States
History
Since its establishment in 1986, NWSAC has played a key role in shaping U.S. policy on wildlife services, providing a platform for dialogue between diverse stakeholders on how to best manage wildlife interactions with human activities.[5]
External links
References
- ↑ USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. "National Wildlife Services Advisory Committee". USDA APHIS, https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/wildlifedamage/programs/nwsac (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. "About APHIS". USDA APHIS, https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/home (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ Posts found on X discussing the partnerships of NWSAC in wildlife management.
- ↑ USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. "National Wildlife Services Advisory Committee; Representatives Named". USDA APHIS, https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/newsroom/news/nwsac-representatives (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. "National Wildlife Services Advisory Committee". USDA APHIS, https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/wildlifedamage/programs/nwsac (accessed February 8, 2025).