Number: 1976-01
From knowledge as an association of independent state organizations and their affiliated local groups, the National Wildlife Federation is of the firm conviction that an alert and fully-informed public will demand sound management of natural resources. Public education is the solid foundation upon which conservation practices must be based.
Overall, the National Wildlife Federation continues in its belief that contamination of the environment by water and air pollutants, by toxic chemicals, by solid wastes, and by noise, along with unwise practices relating to the extraction of minerals, the harvesting of timber, the grazing of livestock, the loss of natural areas and the protection of endangered wildlife, constitute the major natural resource problems of the age. Currently, these are complicated by energy shortages and economic difficulties.
It is in light of this background that the National Wildlife Federation invites the attention of all Americans to what it considers the major conservation issues of the year 1976, our Bicentennial Year:
Environmental Goals: The National Wildlife Federation is convinced that the United States must not lessen its efforts to meet environmental goals for controlling air and water pollution, preventing contamination of public resources by toxic substances, reducing the generation of wastes and managing unavoidable wastes in manners which reclaim valuable resources, provide sources of fuel, and protect public aesthetic values. Studies prove that programs to abate pollution stimulate the economy and create opportunities for employment. Further, calculations of the benefits of pollution control which include improved public health and well-being and reduction in damages to crops, wildlife, wildlife habitat, and public and private property show that abatement programs are excellent investments.
Energy: The National Wildlife Federation continues to call upon decision-makers at all levels of government to develop a coordinated and comprehensive national energy policy, one which identifies short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals and stresses the urgent need for energy habitat–the critical factor in achieving optimum numbers and varieties of wild creatures. This organization continues to support a balanced wildlife management program which gives consideration to all species, game and non-game, and recognizes the aesthetic and ecological values of wildlife as well as its value to consumptive users. It supports a management policy that permits the taking by sportsmen and authorized commercial operators of surplus fish and wildlife when numbers are abundant but protects those in short supply. The Federation deplores controversy between hunters and anti-hunters which impedes the protection and improvement of wildlife habitat. It deplores any resort to distortion or emotionalism by either side in the continuing discussion between hunters and anti-hunters. This organization favors strict enforcement of hunting laws, and urges hunters and fishermen to adopt personal codes of ethics and rules of conduct which enhance the image of sportsmen in the minds of the public. Anti and non-hunters are invited to consider means by which they may bear a greater share of the burden of wildlife habitat conservation and maintenance.
International Affairs: The National Wildlife Federation continues to urge that the U.S. Government pursue an active and positive role in advocating proper consideration for the environment in negotiations with other nations which deal with natural resources. This organization stresses its conviction that the United Nations Environment Programme should emphasize benefits to be gained on global problems such as food shortages, energy conservation, and inadequate housing through voluntary efforts to stabilize human populations. Particular concern continues to be expressed over the welfare of international resources such as migratory waterfowl, marine birds, marine mammals, sea turtles and migratory fishes such as bluefin tuna.