Summary Nowhere is the opportunity for partnership more pronounced than with aquatic resource stewardship and recreational fishing. This partnership led to the development of the Sport Fish Restoration Program of the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund, one of the great continuing success stories in conservation. There can be no resting on our laurels. New challenges require strengthened commitment to past efforts and innovation in developing new programs to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
Many aquatic resources continue to decline.
Changing social structures have limited recreational opportunities for many Americans. Changing values have led past allies into unneccesary conflict. Confronting these challenges will require vision, leadership, and dedication. The Recreational Fisheries Stewardship Initiative offers a valuable starting point in improving aquatic resources and recreational opportunity. Many plans and programs are already in place to advance these goals.