Rhode Island

Wildlife mandate in statute

“The general assembly finds that the animal life inhabiting the lands of the state, its lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers, and the marine waters within its territorial jurisdiction, are a precious, renewable, natural resource of the state that, through application of enlightened management techniques, can be developed, preserved, and maintained for the beauty and mystery that wild animals bring to our environment.

The general assembly further finds that the management of fish and wildlife through the establishment of hunting and fishing seasons; the setting of size, catch, possession, and bag limits; the regulation of the manner of hunting and fishing; and the establishment of conservation policies should be pursued utilizing modern scientific techniques, having regard for the fluctuations of species populations, the effect of management practices on fish and wildlife, and the conservation and perpetuation of all species of fish and wildlife.”

The Commission:

Rhode Island has no formal commission.

 

The Agency:

  • Name: Division of Fish and Wildlife
  • Type: Subagency within the Department of Environmental Management
  • Title of Agency Director: Director
  • Mission statement from agency website

“Our mission is to ensure that the Freshwater and Wildlife Resources of the State of Rhode Island will be conserved and managed for equitable and sustainable use.”

 

Find Your State

America’s Wildlife Values was an extensive 2018 nationwide survey led by Colorado State University of public attitudes towards wildlife. Findings were compared with a 2004 survey to identify trends. Researchers also surveyed personnel at state wildlife agencies. Reports are available for national, state and agency results. (Some state agencies did not participate.)

State Report

Agency Culture Memo

National Report