Walberg Introduces Legislation to Protect Fisheries from Cormorants

Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) introduced the Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act to ensure effective, science‑based management of double‑crested cormorant populations across the United States. The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to develop regional management frameworks to guide the responsible take of double‑crested cormorants, working in coordination with the nation’s four Regional Flyway Councils.

Double‑crested cormorants have long posed challenges for fisheries and wildlife populations when their numbers become overabundant. In the Great Lakes, cormorant populations have wreaked havoc on fish stocks, inflicting millions of dollars in damage to the Great Lakes fisheries. This legislation would establish a comprehensive, collaborative framework to ensure that population management is effective and sustainable, better protecting fisheries and other wildlife habitats. 

"Great Lakes fisheries are essential to Michigan's economy, outdoor recreation, and cultural heritage," said Rep. Walberg. "Recreational fishing across the Great Lakes generates $5.1 billion in economic benefit only, supporting local jobs and tourism economies throughout the state. When double‑crested cormorant populations grow beyond sustainable levels, they can significantly deplete fish stocks. This legislation ensures we have a responsible, science‑driven framework to protect Michigan’s fisheries."

"The rapid recovery and proliferation of double crested cormorant populations create challenges for not only public and private aquaculture facilities but also for fisheries and land managers in many cases," said Taylor Schmitz, Senior Vice President of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF). "The Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act provides a science-based, proven framework approach to delegating management authority to the states where needed. CSF appreciates Rep. Walberg for his leadership in developing a workable solution to a growing concern among anglers across the country."

"The Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act provides a much-needed, science-based framework to protect fisheries and aquatic habitats," said Connor Bevan, Inland Fisheries Policy Director at the American Sportfishing Association (ASA). "By ensuring states and tribes have the tools they need to manage regional impacts while maintaining sustainable populations, this legislation supports effective management of double-crested cormorants. On behalf of the nation’s recreational fishing industry, ASA thanks Representative Walberg for his leadership on this important legislation."