H.R. 3329: Wildlife Corridors and USDA Conservation Programs Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Wildlife Corridors and USDA Conservation Programs Act of 2025, aims to establish and conserve habitat connectivity areas known as American wildlife corridors. These corridors are designed to allow wildlife to move freely between different habitats, which is essential for their migration, adaptation to environmental changes, and overall ecological processes. Here is a breakdown of key aspects of the bill:

Habitat Connectivity Areas

The bill defines and establishes criteria for what constitutes an American wildlife corridor, including the identification of habitat connectivity areas. The Secretary of Agriculture, working with the Secretary of the Interior and relevant directors, is tasked with:

• Identification: Within one year after the bill's enactment, the Secretary must identify habitat connectivity areas and their adjacent lands that can enhance wildlife movement.
• Mapping: Following the identification, maps of these areas must be developed.
• Reporting: The Secretary is also required to report to Congress on the identified areas and provide data on their ecological relevance periodically.

Designation of American Wildlife Corridors

After establishing the criteria for designation, the Secretary will designate identified habitat connectivity areas as American wildlife corridors within three years of the criteria being set. This designation aims to promote the long-term maintenance and conservation of these corridors.

Conservation Efforts

The bill outlines specific actions and support for the conservation of these wildlife corridors:

• Technical Assistance: The Secretary will develop technical standards and best practices for conserving these corridors, providing educational outreach to relevant stakeholders.
• Priority Actions: The Secretary may provide priority enrollment in conservation programs to support practices that maintain or improve habitats.
• Contract Modifications: Existing contracts under conservation programs may be modified to align land use with wildlife corridor objectives, provided that landowners agree to the changes.

Cooperative Agreements

To implement the provisions of the bill, the Secretary is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with various stakeholders, including:

• Federal agencies
• State, Tribal, and local governments
• Nongovernmental organizations
• Institutions of higher education

Administrative Requirements

The bill also amends existing laws to incorporate provisions for the maintenance of privacy regarding personal information in relation to conservation programs and introduces clarity to regulatory matters related to wildlife corridors.

Relevant Companies

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