The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, established over 100 years ago, was built on the principle that wildlife is a public resource that should be managed sustainably for future generations. A key aspect of this model is its user pays/public-benefits structure, where those who participate in outdoor recreation activities such as hunting, fishing and wildlife watching contribute directly to conservation funding.
Funding from excise taxes, license fees and conservation programs generates billions of dollars that state and federal entities use to safeguard habitats, protect wildlife and support local economies. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that hunting, fishing and wildlife associated recreation contribute over $394 billion to the U.S. economy each year. In support of state-based fish and wildlife conservation efforts, the American System of Conservation Funding with its user pays/public-benefits structure ensures that those who participate in outdoor recreation activities such as hunting and fishing contribute directly to conservation funding.