Russ Feingold: “I am introducing the Crane Conservation Act of 2009. I am very pleased that Senator Crapo has once again agreed to lead…”

“I am introducing the Crane Conservation Act of 2009. I am very pleased that Senator Crapo has once again agreed to lead on this legislation with me. I am always glad to work with my colleagues from across the aisle. We are pleased to be joined by Senators Boxer, Brownback, Cardin, Kerry, Kohl, Landrieu, and Martinez, who are cosponsors of this legislation. The Crane Conservation Act will ensure we do our part to protect the existence of these birds, whose cultural significance and popular appeal can be seen worldwide. This legislation is particularly important to the people of Wisconsin, as our state provides habitat and refuge to several crane species. But this legislation, which authorizes the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to distribute funds and grants to crane conservation efforts both domestically and in developing countries, promises to have a larger environmental and cultural impact that will go far beyond the boundaries of my home State. Congress' efforts to help protect and recover species throughout the world began in earnest in 1994 when Congress passed and the President signed the Rhinoceros and Tiger Conservation Act.”