North Miami-Dade News

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. María Elvira Salazar's conservation bill (H.R. 4389) has successfully passed through the House Committee on Natural Resources, focusing on the protection of iconic birds such as the Baltimore Oriole and Reddish Egret. The Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act (NMBCA) aims to provide essential support for habitat conservation, research, monitoring, and community outreach and education for migratory birds.

In a statement, Rep. Salazar emphasized the importance of migratory birds, stating, “Migratory birds provide ecological, economic, and recreational benefits in South Florida, the Everglades, and throughout the Americas.” She expressed gratitude towards Chairman Westerman and Subcommittee Chairman Bentz for advancing the Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Enhancements Act to ensure the continued protection of these iconic birds.

House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman praised Rep. Salazar's dedication to wildlife and environmental conservation, stating, “H.R. 4389 would reauthorize crucial conservation dollars for migratory birds while allowing more organizations to access this funding through modest increases to the federal cost share.” Westerman highlighted the significance of the program in supporting the conservation of neotropical migratory birds across North America.

Additionally, Rep. Rick Larsen, the lead Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, commended the bipartisan efforts, saying, "I am glad to see our migratory bird bill soar out of the Natural Resources Committee!" Larsen emphasized the threats faced by migratory bird species in the Pacific Northwest due to pesticide pollution, deforestation, and invasive species. The bill aims to protect these diverse bird populations and their habitats in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

The Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Enhancements Act is seen as a crucial step in safeguarding wildlife and the environment for future generations. With the decline in North American bird populations and the positive impact of federal efforts in conservation, initiatives like this bill are essential in ensuring the conservation of migratory birds for years to come.

The passage of this bill signifies a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve migratory bird species, their habitats, and the vital ecosystems they contribute to.