For Immediate Release: September 30, 2009
Contact: Clay Harris; (505) 248-6428; Clay_Harris@fws.gov
FFS # R2EA

Albuquerque, NM - Wildlife in the Chihuahuan Desert will benefit from an agreement signed in late July between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute (CDRI) that will use Recovery Act funding to restore grassland habitat.

As part of the Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, the agreement utilizes $32,000 in Recovery Act funding and $10,000 in cooperative CDRI funding to restore and enhance 178 acres of native grassland habitat for migratory and resident wildlife in the Chihuahuan Desert.

Restoring and enhancing native grassland habitat benefits a wide range of wildlife, including the federally endangered Northern aplomado falcon and the state-listed Texas horned lizard, prairie falcon and Montezuma quail. An educational exhibit that explains the restoration and the ecological and historical importance of Chihuahuan Desert grasslands also is part of the project.

“Recovery Act funding is playing an important role in conservation efforts throughout the Southwest,” said Benjamin Tuggle, PhD, regional director for the Service’s Southwest Region, which includes Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona. “This project not only restores important grassland, but also benefits a host of wildlife by enhancing natural habitat. It’s a way of protecting the natural treasures of Texas.”

Funding for these projects and hundreds more across the nation comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Of the $3 billion appropriated to the Department of the Interior, the Act provides $280 million for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Service’s Southwest region received $29.9 million that is earmarked for 129 construction, energy efficiency, habitat restoration and other improvement projects at national wildlife refuges, fish hatcheries and other public and private lands. The projects represent long-standing priority needs, generate the largest number of jobs in the shortest period of time, and create lasting value for the American public. For a full list of projects funded nationwide, visit the Department’s recovery web site at http://recovery.doi.gov.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The Service is both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information, visit www.fws.gov.

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute is a non-profit scientific and educational organization dedicated to promoting public awareness, appreciation and concern for the natural diversity of the Chihuahuan Desert through research and education.