Henrico Times

Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) has called for an extension of the comment period for the proposed National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) biological, integrity, diversity, and environmental health (BIDEH) rule. In a letter addressed to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wittman emphasized the importance of allowing sufficient stakeholder input before implementing such a significant change.

Wittman expressed his concerns about the current 30-day comment period, stating, “I am concerned that a 30-day comment period woefully recognizes the need to receive public comment from hunters, anglers, and other users of the NWRS that are included in the ‘Big Six’.” He highlighted the inadequacy of the timeline when compared to past proposals, urging for a minimum of 90 days for stakeholders to review and evaluate the BIDEH proposal.

As a member of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) and a co-chair of the National Wildlife Refuge Caucus, Wittman stressed the potential implications of the BIDEH rule on waterfowl conservation and the overall management of NWRS units. He pointed out the lack of consultation with key stakeholders such as sportsmen and women, who play a vital role in supporting the NWRS through the sale of Federal Duck Stamps.

Wittman's letter to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service called for an extended comment period to ensure that all relevant parties, including Members of Congress, have ample time to provide feedback on the proposed rule. He emphasized the need for transparency and thorough consideration of the potential impacts of the BIDEH rule on wildlife, sportsmen, and the American public at large.

In conclusion, Wittman's plea for an extended comment period reflects a broader effort to prioritize stakeholder engagement and ensure that decisions regarding the management of wildlife refuges are made with careful consideration and input from all concerned parties.