Most state programs lack the resources needed to ensure the conservation of these species.  Many animals and fish receive protection from fees generated from the hunting and fishing of the animals.  Because common non-game fish and wildlife are neither hunted or on state and/or federal endangered species lists, funds for their conservation are in short supply.

Teaming With Wildlife would place a small user fee on a wide array of outdoor recreational equipment for this purpose.  What amounts to the price of a pack of gum or the price of a movie ticket would raise an estimated $350 million for conservation programs across the country.  The money would be divided among the 50 states.  Wisconsin could receive as much as $6.8 million a year from the program.  To receive the money, the state would also have to provide a match of $2.2 million - making the overall impact of the program $9 million.

A coalition of 2200 business and citizen organizations have expressed support for the Teaming With Wildlife plan.  Legislation establishing it is expected to be brought before Congress in the near future.

Several key Wisconsin legislators are important to this effort.  If are interested in this program, you should contact Rep.'s Ron Kind, Gerald Kleczka, and David Obey and let them hear your thoughts.