Migratory birds and urban communities will benefit from a new bill, the Urban Bird Treaty Act, introduced by U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI) today. Just in time for Migratory Bird Day on October 12, the bill will create a distinct grant program that supports city partners nationwide in conserving wild birds.

"Healthy cities are full of birds," said Brian Brooks, Vice President for Advocacy and Threats Programs at American Bird Conservancy (ABC). "We thank Representative Dingell for introducing the Urban Bird Treaty Act, which acknowledges the significant role birds play in urban ecosystems. This dedicated funding for habitat conservation, scientific research, and education will not only enhance bird populations but also strengthen the health and vitality of human communities across urban areas."

Launched in 1999, The Urban Bird Treaty (UBT) program is a unique, collaborative effort between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and participating cities throughout the country. The first treaties were signed with New Orleans and Chicago, with a total of 31 Urban Bird Treaty cities implementing community-based conservation solutions today. Currently, program activities are funded through the Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Grant Program, which supports a range of coastal, wetland, and riparian restoration projects. The Urban Bird Treaty Act would establish UBT as a distinct grant program, helping to direct more money to bird habitat restoration and threats reduction. The bill would authorize $1 million annually in funding for the program from fiscal years 2025 through 2031. 

“Many common urban species such as the Chimney Swift and Purple Martin have undergone significant population declines since 1970,” said Bryan Lenz, Glass Collisions Program and Bird City Network Director. “The Urban Bird Treaty Act reaffirms the value of the Urban Bird Treaty program, propelling it to have a greater impact in the future. This will help reduce threats to birds so that they can thrive in urban spaces.”

To learn how more than 200 communities across the Americas are working to become healthier cities for birds and people, visit Bird City Network and explore Urban Bird Treaty cities.

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American Bird Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving wild birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. With an emphasis on achieving results and working in partnership, we take on the greatest problems facing birds today, innovating and building on rapid advancements in science to halt extinctions, protect habitats, eliminate threats, and build capacity for bird conservation. Find us on abcbirds.org, Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter (@ABCbirds).

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