National Wildlife Federation Conservation Policy Resolutions

The National Wildlife Federation's (NWF) conservation policy positions, unlike other national conservation groups, are determined by our affiliated organizations. Resolutions are intended as declarations of overall policy on nationally important conservation issues.  They reflect the interests, experience and wisdom of grassroots conservationists in the places that they actually live and know.  To search the Resolutions database for a specific resolution, click here.

WHY?

Since 1937, the conservation policies of the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) have been established by its affiliates at Annual Meetings through the consideration and adoption of resolutions.  These resolutions provide the backbone of the conservation work of NWF and its affiliates.  Ranging from the need for clean air and water to concerns about dwindling habitat for wildlife and recreational pursuits, the Federation's conservation policy resolutions represent the full breadth of NWF's involvement in almost every major chapter of conservation history. 

HOW?

Resolutions are considered annually and may be proposed by NWF affiliates, members of NWF's Board of Directors, and the NWF President.  As per NWF Bylaws, proposed resolutions are called for and acted on through a set of procedures to ensure their due process and fair consideration by the affiliates.  NWF professional staff with expertise in the relevant subject matter reviews and make recommendations regarding proposed resolutions to help ensure scientific accuracy and appropriateness.  Only affiliate delegates (representatives or alternate representatives) may vote on proposed policy resolutions. 

NOW WHAT?

An oft asked question after a resolution is adopted is "now what"?  Adopted NWF resolutions provide policy guidance for lobbying or litigation.  NWF professional staff frequently reference NWF resolutions when handling inquiries from the press and general public regarding conservation policies.  In general, as the voice of conservationists across the country, NWF resolutions inform governments, other organizations, the press and the public of our position on conservation issues.  Affiliates also utilize NWF resolutions to engage fellow affiliates in local and state campaigns. 

Not infrequently, NWF resolutions are confused with NWF's active conservation agenda.  Resolutions set NWF's conservation policies and, as such, neither direct specific action by NWF nor allocate NWF resources (budget, staff, etc.).  It is the responsibility of the NWF Board of Directors and President to determine priorities for NWF's annual conservation work within the frame of the annual budget.

Adopted conservation policy resolutions may be found at the Affiliate Partnership Center (http://nwfaffiliates.org/) under the "Resolutions Database" page.