U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, today welcomed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service) announcement that it will distribute over $47.5 million to the state of Alaska to promote access for sportsmen and women, state conservation efforts, and economic opportunities in the outdoor recreation industry. 

“Alaska’s hunting and fishing opportunities are the best in the world and Alaskans know best how to protect our state’s treasures to ensure their sustainability for future generations. Giving states the resources they need to increase access for recreation, outdoor, and conservation activities is a win-win for sportsmen and women across the nation,” Murkowski said. “While this funding is good news, I remain concerned about the Service’s continued actions to limit opportunities for sportsmen and women on federal lands in Alaska and across the nation, so our work is far from finished.”

Murkowski, chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, noted that of the $47.5 million being distributed to Alaska, $29.5 million is for wildlife restoration and $18 million is for sport fish restoration. The congressionally mandated funds come from the Service’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program.