MEMPHIS, TENN. – Oct. 9, 2026 – The Ecological Project Permitting Act of 2026, introduced by Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), would help accelerate ecological restoration projects by creating dedicated permitting pathways to improve wetlands, waterways, wildlife habitat, and overall ecosystem health.
This legislation would remove green tape and allow restoration practitioners to repair degraded habitats by focusing on net-positive ecological outcomes in wetlands and landscapes for functions and services.
The proposed permit is outcome-driven, prioritizing long-term benefits over the temporary disruption required to deliver net ecological benefits. Restoration activities range from habitat enhancement to projects involving water-level control structures, excavation, and bank stabilization.
The bill maintains requirements under the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and other federal wildlife and environmental laws, while requiring interagency coordination and monitoring of projects authorized under the permit.
"Restoration projects make our public and working lands healthier, and the permitting process should help expedite that work, not slow it down. The Ecological Restoration Project Permitting Act would provide a more predictable path for conservation projects while maintaining a clear focus on measurable gains for habitat and wildlife. Ducks Unlimited appreciates the bipartisan leadership behind this legislation and its recognition that we can strengthen wetland functions and services while making on-the-ground restoration more achievable."
Adam Putnam, DU CEO
Media Contact
Taylor Groat
Agriculture and Policy Communications Coordinator
Memphis, TN
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America's continually disappearing wetlands, grasslands and other waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 20 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science, DU’s projects benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people in all 50 states. Learn more at www.ducks.org.
