Communities and individuals throughout the United States (U.S.) have a strong commitment to fish and wildlife resources. Many communities realize substantial economic benefits from tourism and visitors that come to enjoy fish and wildlife. Hunting and fishing remain strong components of community culture all along the nation's great river systems. As an asset of tremendous environmental, recreational, and economic importance, the nation's fish and wildlife resources represent a vital part of our natural heritage, one that is facing increasing pressures. For this reason, the mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) grows continuously more complex and critical.