Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) today welcomed President Obama’s nominee to be the next director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Dan Ashe, to the Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW) for his confirmation hearing.  Ashe, a long-time Maryland resident, currently serves as the agency’s deputy director.  

 

“Dan Ashe’s demonstrated leadership at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and his commitment to science-driven decisions make him the ideal person to serve as Director. Dan has proven that he has the right kind of experience to direct the FWS at a time when the agency is faced with far too limited resources in conserving, protecting and managing some of our nation’s most cherished resources like those at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in Maryland. Wildlife Refuges across this nation generate nearly $1.7 billion annually for local economies and support 27,000 private sector jobs. I look forward to working closely with Dan in his new position,” said Senator Cardin, who serves as Chairman of the EPW Water and Wildlife Subcommittee.   

 

The Fish and Wildlife Service is charged with conserving, developing, and managing the Nation’s fish and wildlife resources. That mission is critically important to this country’s natural heritage but also to our economy and way of life. National Wildlife Refuges, for example, provide critical habitat for cherished species and a place to hunt, fish and bird watch; a place to take our children and grandchildren to pass on skills and an appreciation for this country’s wild places and wildlife. 

 

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